Kors Engineering’s PleXML integrates PLCs from multiple plants at Marwood Metal to SaaS ERP

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Programmable Logic Controllers (PLC) Remote Implementations Ensure High Quality Levels Maintained in Cost-effective Fashion

WATERFORD, Mich., Sept. 21, 2010 – Kors Engineering, a premier service provider for manufacturing and industrial organizations, today announced they have concluded the initial integration of programmable logic controllers (PLCs) with its PleXML tool for machines at Marwood Metal Fabrication, Ltd., resulting in improved quality, lowered cost and enhanced customer satisfaction.

Kors is using a single PleXML system to integrate multiple plants to software as a service (SaaS) ERP solution Plex Online. The architecture centralizes the IT infrastructure and eliminates the need for a server, infrastructure, and licensing at each individual plant. This solution streamlines management and results in significant cost savings for Marwood Metal Fabrication.

Tillsonburg, Ontario-based Marwood Metal Fabrication is a multi-facility, stamping and modular assembly supplier dedicated to quality, delivery and price competitiveness. Marwood produces an extensive range of components for use in the vehicle manufacturing industry.

“Integrating PLCs with Plex Online allows the machines to communicate with each other and ensure a consistently high-quality part output,” said Marwood Metal Fabrication Director of Engineering Steve Spanjers. “Our customers are delighted with the results as they can review the number of quality checks and be assured that any part that does not meet quality specifications will not be shipped. This implementation also significantly reduces downtime for the machines, which is a huge benefit for us.”

“Our mission at Kors Engineering is to help manufacturers ensure its products meet or surpass quality specifications in an efficient and safe manner,” said Kors Engineering President Tony Kaczmarek. “PLC implementations help operators monitor and control the rigorous quality standards and ensure customers receive a high-quality product. PleXML automatically manages large volumes of machine data to achieve the highest levels of quality, while helping management increase equipment and process uptime.”

Kors Engineering leveraged the Kepware OPC toolset to provide seamless, real-time communication through the Plex Online software as a service (SaaS) ERP solution among all of the Marwood machines. Ten machines are now fully integrated, and a total of 40 machines will be integrated with PLCs when the project is completed. Additionally, the implementation was conducted as an entirely remote operation, reducing travel costs and optimizing use of staff resources.

About Kors Engineering
Kors Engineering is a premier service provider for manufacturing and municipal organizations looking to optimize technology and integrate systems. With expertise in automation, controls, systems integration and energy management, Kors Engineering delivers quantifiable results in cost reductions, time savings and labor efficiencies. For more than three decades, the team has consulted and executed projects to improve systems on the shop floor and throughout entire facilities. For more information, visit www.korsengineering.com.