#China #Zhongshan #CNC Machines #First Mold #prototype division

First Mold Restructures Prototype Operations for Better Efficiency

Introduction
First Mold, a renowned leader in precision plastic manufacturing and rapid prototyping in China, is making significant changes to its operations. Established in 2010, the company aims to enhance production capabilities by relocating its prototype division closer to its primary facility in Gangkou. This strategic move is anticipated to significantly address inefficiencies that have plagued the company's operations.

Background
The company's Dongsheng facility, located approximately 13.5 kilometers (about 8.4 miles) from the main industrial park in Gangkou, has presented challenges. These challenges include delays in equipment deployment and extended travel times for technicians, which adversely impacted production timelines. The separation of the two facilities made coordination difficult, leading to inefficiencies that First Mold aims to eradicate with this relocation.

Operational Improvements
By moving the prototype division, First Mold expects to enhance the utilization of its CNC machinery to reach 90%. Moreover, the conversion of the prototype division will unlock additional space for new injection molding machines, which are projected to bolster the company’s production capacity by 10%. This increase in capacity will enable First Mold to provide faster turnaround times, resulting in a reduction of costs for clients by approximately 5 to 8%.

Changes in Facility Setup
As part of its restructuring plan, First Mold has secured a new facility spanning over 64,500 square feet, located a mere 0.8 kilometers (about 0.5 miles) from the newly constructed industrial park. This proximity allows the company to centralize over 60 CNC machines and 20 3D printing machines, which were previously distributed across its two locations.

The CEO, James Li, emphasized that the goal of this reorganization is not merely to relocate but to improve the overall manufacturing logic. Previously, technicians had to travel more than 25 kilometers to manage production details, wasting countless hours each year. By centralizing operations, First Mold aims to eliminate this travel time, reducing equipment deployment time by 80% and improving CNC usage rates significantly.

Investment in Technology
In conjunction with the relocation, First Mold plans to cease operations at the Dongsheng facility and will invest in advanced equipment from respected brands such as JSW, GF+, and Haitian. This investment is crucial for increasing the monthly production capacity of precision injection-molded parts, aligning with First Mold's commitment to innovation and efficiency.

Company Overview
Founded in 2010 and headquartered in Zhongshan, China, First Mold specializes in rapid prototyping, precision tooling, and injection molding. With dual operations in China and Mexico, the company is well-poised to meet the increasing demands of industries requiring high-quality plastic components.

Conclusion
The relocation and operational overhaul of First Mold's prototype division is expected to have transformative effects on the company's production capabilities. By minimizing delays and maximizing machine functionalities, First Mold stands ready to enhance its service offerings and maintain its position as a leader in the precision plastic manufacturing sector. As the new efficiencies take hold, clients can look forward to quicker service, lower costs, and a continued dedication to quality from First Mold.