Issue link: https://iconnect007.uberflip.com/i/1411055
36 PCB007 MAGAZINE I SEPTEMBER 2021 For our drilling and routing operations, we have decided to specify equipment with single drill heads. While the overall investment will likely be higher than if we chose multi-headed drill machines, this option aligns better with WCM principles. With the single-head ma- chines, we have more redundancy in case of an equipment malfunction. Additionally, we can scale up our capacity in smaller increments with less investment and have greater flexibil- ity if we need to move equipment. One oth- er benefit to selecting single-head machines is that they align better with our goal of single- piece flow. ese decisions are all part of a discovery process where we're combining what we are learning with our own experience and prior- ities. We've had opportunities to tour many PCB manufacturing operations to see how others are building boards and to observe their processes in action. We are also learning from our suppliers who have provided training, opportunities for hands-on experience with equipment, and shared invaluable information and advice. We've been delighted by the gener- osity of the industry and look forward to being a part of it. PCB007 Jessi Hall is senior director of Vertical Integration at SEL. Architect's rendering of the new facility.