Tool inventory and management can be a costly and time-consuming process for any manufacturer, so having greater control over what cutting tools are on-site, how many are available, who is using them and when to
re-order offers both support and accountability.

The established ProLog vending system from Chesterfield-based Dormer Pramet offers individual compartment control in a standard shopfloor cabinet at the point of use; and in addition to the standard check-in/check-out features, ‘business rules’ can be added and reports made available (www.dormerpramet.com).

Furthermore, users can automatically ‘age’ and lock-down tools based on specific criteria, set-up alert notifications when a tool has reached a defined setting, and access a full audit history by ‘asset’ and user.

This system, which has been complemented by Dormer Pramet’s SupplyBay and SmartDrawer vending units, has now been joined by several new machines — SaveRing, SaveRent and SaveBin.

SaveRing is a versatile vending machine that can store and distribute up to 540 unique items; it has four key functions to “distribute, rent, return for regrinding or reserve” products for up to 30 days.

SaveRent is a locker-type “tool renting and monitoring system” that allows the storing, distribution and return of valuable frequently used tools and items.

Every time an item is accessed, the transaction is recorded.

With SaveBin, employees return used or ‘contaminated’ items, with the unit taking a photo of the product and logging the transaction to the employee; the system automatically issues an alert if ‘waste levels’ reach a pre-defined number.

All machines are supported by data management software that connects with distributor information, integrates with customer-based ERP systems and enables access to real-time information and administration on any Web-enabled device.