In our previous conversation with Miquel Julián Vilanova, Head of Project Engineering at Aritex, we explored the technical complexities involved in setting up production lines in the automotive sector. Today we take a closer look at one of the toughest challenges: making sure that every project meets our clients’ quality standards. Margins for error in this sector are practically zero, and few companies have the technical and structural capacity to truly internalise client’s specifications. A team can invest months in studying and interiorising these standards, which can be mechanical, electrical or programming, before going any further. This is a vital undertaking, and one that the Aritex team responds to by familiarising itself with the unique features of every plant.
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Understanding technical standards right from the start
“When we start collaborating with a new client —explains Miquel—, we ask for all the technical documentation available and check to see if there is a learning offer available for integrators or suppliers. That means that we’re aligned with their standards right from day one and can work with greater precision”. If there are no official training courses, the team relies on its own experience and third-party references. “We collaborate with companies that have already worked with the customer and ask them for actionable information. This gives us greater security when the project kicks off”, he adds. This method facilitates knowledge transfer, reduces risks caused by lack of information and helps to prevent serious errors later on in the process.
Every factory is different, even the ones within the same industrial group. “The differences are usually due to local decisions or the way each plant has evolved. Although they may have a shared technical base —robots and standardised components —, operations can vary according to the country and location”, says Miquel. “An exception can sometimes turn into a norm in a particular plant. Detecting nuances like these make all the difference between a project that simply meets requirements and one that really flows”.
A recent case is a good example of this level of dedication: the team studied and familiarised itself with the client’s standards for six months, and finally delivered a project that met with all the requirements, thus endorsing Aritex’s value as a supplier.
“At a national level, few companies have the technical capacities and specialisation that Aritex offers to complete projects of these dimensions. Although we have competitors in Europe, the differences in size and focus give us a competitive edge, because we focus intensely on each and every project, always seeking to offer the best possible service”, explains Miquel.
Preventing and anticipating risks
An early validation process as stringent as the one applied by Aritex is quite uncommon in the automotive sector. Before the full project is developed, the team sends a “sneak peek”, a deliverable that enables errors or deviations to be detected in the initial phases. This practice helps to align the project with the client’s expectations and makes adjustments easier without incurring in cost overruns from reworks.
“Every team runs an in-depth analysis of the specifications and defines a road map. Then we present this sneak peek document to validate the critical points. If any faults are found, we can correct them straight away. That way we can give precise instructions from the start and maintain this highly demanding level right up to the end of the project. Detecting changes in time helps us to avoid having to remake dozens or even hundreds of parts later on”, explains Miquel.
This deliverable also identifies factors that are not recorded in the technical documents, such as informal decisions or preferences of plant personnel. “Not everything is in the drawings. We can uncover additional details by talking to the customer and visiting its facilities. That’s why this early validation process is so important”, he adds.
This practice, a very uncommon one in this industry, shows Aritex’s commitment to rigorous management to protect both the quality and the budget in every phase of project.
Continuous improvement and stringent control
With over six decades of experience, Aritex gives tremendous value to continuous improvement. The company has incorporated agile methodologies and focuses on boosting the automation capacities, operational efficiency and strict compliance with deadlines and quality. “Advances like these are very clearly perceived by our clients”, says Miquel.
Quality control in supplier management is further strengthened with constant audits and evaluations. “Our Operational Excellence (OPEX) department exhaustively monitors suppliers, and that provides security, especially in manufacturing, where quality and costs are critical.”
The technological evolution taking place in the automotive sector requires new techniques and materials to be learnt and used. For example, the growing use of aluminium in framing imposes the need for specialisation in processes such as structural riveting, clinching and flow drilling. “We keep our internal technical training constantly up to date to anticipate present and future challenges. This preparation is a key factor in staying competitive”, says Miquel.
Precision and strategy for a demanding market
“In a demanding sector like this one, we must be extremely efficient. It’s essential to set up clear and well-defined workflows so we can offer a final price that’s competitive, and make us a feasible and positive choice when new projects are awarded”, says Miquel.
To make this a reality, Aritex validates everything from the beginning, keeps in close touch with the plant and adapts to each client. This combination of experience, attention to detail and strategic vision enables Aritex to lead complex projects in changing environments and consolidate its position as a competitive partner that is ready to take on future challenges in the sector.
