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Charles Okpala

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Kansas State University

Armando Marques-Guedes

UNL - New University of Lisbon

Sarah M O H A M E D el hawary

De Montfort University

University of Sarajevo

PUC Minas

Titika Dimitroulia

National and Kapodistrian University of Athens

Adekunle Kolawole

University of Ibadan

Yalova University

Al-Azhar University

University of Tuzla

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Papers by Charles Okpala

The Influence of Personal Characteristics of Founders of Failed and Prospered Generational Transition Family Businesses in Anambra State

SSRN Electronic Journal

Family businesses which are often adjudged very risky ventures as a result of rapid decision maki... more Family businesses which are often adjudged very risky ventures as a result of rapid decision makings are quite different from other enterprises, as they contribute immensely in wealth creation, economic development, sustainability, employment and job opportunities, improved Gross Domestic Product, prospect from younger generations, as well as mentorship from experienced business leaders. However, despite their numerous contributions, they are often bedeviled by numerous challenges which often lead to their failures at the exit or death of their founders. This paper identified the rate of family businesses that have suffered generational transition failures in Anambra state, and also examined the differences in personal characteristics of founders of both failed and prospered Generational Transition (GT) family businesses in the state. The application of Taro Yamane formula gave a sample size of 327, a total of 327 questionnaires was therefore administered to Directors and Managers of Family businesses in the three main cities of Anambra state. The results of the study revealed that 72 percent of the family businesses fail after generational transition. Also, the analysis based on the mean of the individual questionnaire items, with the acceptance benchmark of 3 revealed that there are significant differences in the personal characteristics of the founders of the failed and successful generational transition family businesses. The regression analysis validated the results as indicated by the correlation coefficient (R = .868). It could also be observed from the coefficient of determination (R-Square = .792) that 79 percent differences exist in the relationship between the personal characteristics of founders of the failed and prospered GT family businesses in the state. The paper concluded that founders and Directors of FBs should adopt positive personal characteristics, in order to mitigate the high failure rates of family businesses.

Theoretical Design and Analysis of A Semi- Automatic Multiple-Spindle Drilling Head (MSDH) For Mass Production Processes in Developing Countries

This paper focuses on the design of a multiple spindle drilling head used for mass production of ... more This paper focuses on the design of a multiple spindle drilling head used for mass production of brake drums. Most of the local brake drum manufacturing industries in developing countries like Nigeria, still drill holes in brake drums and brake disks in as many operations as there are number of holes required in each of these items. Nigeria is cited here as an example. This has always led to work accumulation of turned but not yet drilled brake drums at the drilling points of the production lines of these products. This accumulation constitutes a space problem and encourages idle time. A gang-drilling (or a multiple spindle drilling) machine that could perform all the drilling operations in one operation, if possible, was needed to assist these industries. In response to this need, a Multiple-Spindle Drilling Head (MSDH) for these automobile manufacturing industries has been designed. The machine was designed as an attachment (accessory) to a main drill from which it derives the pow...

A Survey of Optimum Manufacturing Strategy as a Tool for Enhanced Industrial Revenue

This paper presents a detailed understanding of Optimum Manufacturing Strategy (OMS) also called ... more This paper presents a detailed understanding of Optimum Manufacturing Strategy (OMS) also called Lean Production System (LPS)), a manufacturing approach that is aimed at applying fewer resources to manufacture high quality products that meet the customer's requirements at less time, thereby increasing throughput and profitability. It also reviewed the numerous advantages of OMS through classical reports and survey studies. All the activities and the benefits, the common tools and techniques, the critical success factors, and the impediments and obstacles of OMS implementation were also discussed in detail. To achieve the research objectives, past literatures on the topic were reviewed. Apart from being applied to achieve continuous improvement through the identification and elimination of all wastes that are inherent in production processes, the study showed that the other advantages of the implementation include the reduction of the lead time, cycle time, inventory and work-in-...

The Implementation of Kaizen Manufacturing Technique: A Case of a Tissue Manufacturing Company

Globalization has really affected businesses all over the world, it is therefore pertinent for ma... more Globalization has really affected businesses all over the world, it is therefore pertinent for manufacturing Small and Medium-scale Enterprises (SMEs) to remain competitive in the market, since they contribute significantly to the Gross Domestic Product of every nation. One method of improving business competitiveness is by applying the concept of Continuous Improvement (CI), which is also known as Kaizen. This paper provides an insight into the implementation stages, critical success factors, and challenges of Kaizen Manufacturing Technique&#39;s (KMT) implementation, before analyzing the benefits of its implementation in an SME that specializes in tissue production. Planning, setting up of cross-functional teams, and Plan-Do-Check-Action Cycle were listed as the different stages of the manufacturing strategy, while management support, effective communication, education and training, organizational culture, skills and expertise, kaizen champion, and organizational structure were discussed in detail as the critical success factors of its implementation. On the barriers, the paper noted that resistance to change, failure to motivate the workforce, lack of understanding of a firm&#39;s strategic goal, as well as difficulties in managing continuous improvement are the main challenges of KMT successful implementation. MATLAB software was applied to analyze and compare the pre and post KMT daily production, defective products, and quality of products in the tissue manufacturing company. The results of the comparisons showed that the Kaizen technique outperformed the traditional production system in terms of daily production rate, defects, and product quality, as they recorded up to 60%, 31%, and 51% improvements respectively. The results showed that kaizen strategy even after reducing the staff strength from thirteen to twelve, also has the potential to reduce the rate of defects, and also increase the quality of products, and production throughput.

Nanocomposites -An Overview

Abstract:-The definition of nanocomposites has broadened significantly to encompass a large varie... more Abstract:-The definition of nanocomposites has broadened significantly to encompass a large variety of systems such as one-dimensional, two-dimensional, three-dimensional and amorphous materials, made of distinctly dissimilar components and mixed at the nanometer scale. This research presents a detailed definition of nanocomposites, its origin, classification, properties, benefits, as well as its future. With the proper choice of compatibilizing chemistries, the nanometer-sized clay platelets interact with polymers in unique ways. The paper shows that the application possibilities for packaging include food and non-food films and rigid containers. In the engineering plastics arena, a host of automotive and industrial components can be considered, making use of lightweight, impact, scratch-resistant and higher heat distortion performance characteristics. In plastics the advantages of nanocomposites over conventional ones don't stop at strength. The high heat resistance and low f...

The Design and Need for Jigs and Fixtures in Manufacturing

Abstract: The paper gave a detailed definition of jigs and fixtures, and also identified the nume... more Abstract: The paper gave a detailed definition of jigs and fixtures, and also identified the numerous advantages that are associated with the use of jigs and fixtures in manufacturing to include: production increase, cost reduction, interchangeability and high accuracy of parts, reduction of the need for inspection and quality control expenses, reduction of accident as safety is improved, automation of machine tool to an appreciable extent, easy machining of complex and heavy components, as well as low variability in dimension which leads to consistent quality of manufactured products. The work also explained that since the design is dependent on numerous factors which are analyzed to achieve an optimum output, that jigs and fixtures should be made of rigid light materials to facilitate easy handling. For adequate strength and rigidity, a mild steel with 16 millimeters diameter was chosen for the design of a sample jig and fixture. Mild steel which contain about 0.29 % of carbon are...

$Research paper thumbnail of Effect of particle size and volume fraction on the tensile properties of Wood Ash Particles Reinforced Polypropylene (WARPP) composites$

Effect of particle size and volume fraction on the tensile properties of Wood Ash Particles Reinforced Polypropylene (WARPP) composites

International Journal of Research in Advanced Engineering and Technology, 2018

Harnessing Science, Technology and Innovations (STI) for Sustainable Industrial and Economic Development

In this paper the critical nature of science, technology and innovations were established. The fu... more In this paper the critical nature of science, technology and innovations were established. The fundamental and unique roles for sustainable industrial and economic development were also discussed. The complex and multifaceted innovation systems and their interactive network (i.e. actors and linkages) were related. As regards what triggers off innovation, clear cases of recent development evolving as a result of negative technological responses like the challenge of carbon emission triggering off the development of eco friendly products were used to drive home the point. The paper then brought it home by addressing the state of science and technological innovation in Nigeria, stating reasons for poor state of science and technological innovations. Having identified the problems, the paper proffered solutions on the way forward with special focus on Nigeria. A coherent national policy guideline that is properly coordinated, sound educational system with adequate infrastructure, focusi...

Application of Taguchi Robust Design as Optimized Lean Production System in Manufacturing Companies

This paper focuses on the application of Taguchi Robust Design to Lean Production System to analy... more This paper focuses on the application of Taguchi Robust Design to Lean Production System to analyse Industrial production wastes. The purpose of this study is to present robust design approach that reduces and possibly eliminate losses to the society that arise due to variations leading to wastes in production processes. Past literatures were reviewed and applied to case study Innoson Vehicle Manufacturing Company (IVM) for the purpose of this study. The application of the Taguchi robust design approach to IVM motor production processes revealed that over-production, excess inventory, defects, and over-processing are the major wastes that are impeding their progress and profitability. The successful application of Taguchi robust design using Design Expert software to analyse two production periods produced varying results, and also revealed Overproduction and Excess inventory as the highest forms of wastes in the firm. In IVM’s first three months of production, over-production had t...

The World’s Best Practice in Manufacturing

International journal of engineering research and technology, 2013

This paper on the world‟s best practice in manufacturing discussed in details the concept of Lean... more This paper on the world‟s best practice in manufacturing discussed in details the concept of Lean Production System (LPS) – a manufacturing approach that is distinct from mass and craft productions. Unlike the mass production that keeps the line moving at all costs but ends up doing massive amounts of rework at the end, Lean production entails spending of more effort upfront correcting problems before they multiply, and ends up with much less total efforts and higher quality in the end. The concept is geared towards turning manufacturing which used to be full of waste of time and resources into a well organized, efficient and more profitable venture. On the critical success factor of LPS implementation, the paper showed that the leadership of a company plays a very prominent role in determining the outcome of its application due to their strategic roles in decision making which will either make or mar the whole exercise. Supplier related problems, market boom losses, non commitment,...

Computer aided process planning in manufacturing: A review

International Journal of Research in Advanced Engineering and Technology, 2018

Orthogonal Array Application and Response Surface Method Approach for Optimal Product Values: An Application for Oil Blending Process

World Academy of Science, Engineering and Technology, International Journal of Mathematical, Computational, Physical, Electrical and Computer Engineering, 2013

This paper presents a methodical approach for designing and optimizing process parameters in oil ... more This paper presents a methodical approach for designing and optimizing process parameters in oil blending industries. Twenty seven replicated experiments were conducted for production of A-Z crown super oil (SAE20W/50) employing L9 orthogonal array to establish process response parameters. Power law model was fitted to experimental data and the obtained model was optimized applying the central composite design (CCD) of response surface methodology (RSM). Quadratic model was found to be significant for production of A-Z crown supper oil. The study recognized and specified four new lubricant formulations that conform to ISO oil standard in the course of analyzing the batch productions of A-Z crown supper oil as: L1: KV = 21.8293Cst, BS200 = 9430.00Litres, Ad102=11024.00Litres, PVI = 2520 Litres, L2: KV = 22.513Cst, BS200 = 12430.00 Litres, Ad102 = 11024.00 Litres, PVI = 2520 Litres, L3: KV = 22.1671Cst, BS200 = 9430.00 Litres, Ad102 = 10481.00 Litres, PVI= 2520 Litres, L4: KV = 22.860...

The Application of Tools and Techniques of Total Productive Maintenance in Manufacturing

The quest toachieve optimal equipment maintenance has over the years constituted a myriad of prob... more The quest toachieve optimal equipment maintenance has over the years constituted a myriad of problems to manufacturing companies, as equipment losses, setup and adjustment, idling and minor stoppages, reduced machine speed, defective products, and reduced yield has adversely affected their desire to attain world class manufacturing. Hence, the need for a distinct manufacturing approach that will offer the much needed relief. This paper examined the concept of Total Productive Maintenance (TPM) a manufacturing approach that blends maintenance and productivity, and reinforces the fact that good care and up-keep of equipment will result in higher productivity and competitive advantage. The applications as well as the attendant benefits of the various tools and techniques of TPM which include Pareto Analysis, One Point Lessons (OPL), 5S Practice, Kaizen (Continuous Improvement), Autonomous Maintenance, PokaYoke, and Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE) were discussed in details. The OE...

Taguchi Robust Design for Optimal Setting of Process Wastes Parameters in an Automotive Parts Manufacturing Company

Robust Design and Optimization of Production Wastes: An Application for Industries

This paper focuses on robust design and optimization of industrial production wastes. Past litera... more This paper focuses on robust design and optimization of industrial production wastes. Past literatures were reviewed to case study Clamason Industries Limited (CIL) a leading ladder-tops manufacturer. A painstaking study of the firm’s practices at the shop floor revealed that Over-production, Waiting time, Excess inventory, and Defects are the major wastes that are impeding their progress and profitability. Design expert8 software was used to apply Taguchi robust design and response surface methodology in order to model, analyse and optimise the wastes cost in CIL. Waiting time and overproduction rank first and second in contributing to the costs of wastes in CIL. For minimal wastes cost the control factors of overproduction, waiting-time, defects and excess-inventory must be set at 0.30, 390.70, 4 and 55.70 respectively for CIL. The optimal value of cost of wastes for the months studied was 22.3679. Finally, a recommendation was made that for the company to enhance their profitabil...

Nanocomposites - An Overview

The definition of nanocomposites has broadened significantly to encompass a large variety of syst... more The definition of nanocomposites has broadened significantly to encompass a large variety of systems such as one-dimensional, two-dimensional, three-dimensional and amorphous materials, made of distinctly dissimilar components and mixed at the nanometer scale. This research presents a detailed definition of nanocomposites, its origin, classification, properties, benefits, as well as its future. With the proper choice of compatibilizing chemistries, the nanometer-sized clay platelets interact with polymers in unique ways. The paper shows that the application possibilities for packaging include food and non-food films and rigid containers. In the engineering plastics arena, a host of automotive and industrial components can be considered, making use of lightweight, impact, scratch-resistant and higher heat distortion performance characteristics. In plastics the advantages of nanocomposites over conventional ones don't stop at strength. The high heat resistance and low flammability...

Lean Production System Implementation in an Original Equipment Manufacturing Company: Benefits, Challenges, and Critical Success Factors

Often referred to as the global best practice in manufacturing, Lean Production system (LPS) is d... more Often referred to as the global best practice in manufacturing, Lean Production system (LPS) is defined as a manufacturing strategy that aims at waste reduction, by utilizing less resources to manufacture high quality products at reduced lead time, thus enhancing profitability and throughput. This study is aimed at appraising the status of 3 years LPS implementation in an original equipment manufacturing company, located in South East – Nigeria, by determining the challenges, benefits, and critical success factors of implementing the manufacturing process. The sample size of 90 from the company’s population size of 117 personnel was calculated with the application of Taro Yamane formula. The research was based on the 90 respondents, as 100 percent success rate was achieved in the collection of questionnaire administered to the management and the entire departments of the company. The findings of the study revealed that high cost LPS implementation, inadequate funding and training we...

Design and development of a proximity warning system for improved safety on the manufacturing shop floor

Journal of King Saud University - Engineering Sciences

The Status of Lean Manufacturing Initiatives in the UK Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises – A Survey

The importance of Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) in The United Kingdom (UK) cannot be ... more The importance of Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) in The United Kingdom (UK) cannot be over-emphasised, as they have been playing a very prominent role in the growth of the country"s economy. Often regarded as the core of manufacturing in the UK, the SMEs have in recent years been bedevilled with barrage of problems which were attributed to their traditional system of manufacturing which involves a lot of waste. Some of these problems facing them include stiff competition, low quality of products, as well as loss of market share. To this end, the companies began to question their manufacturing method, in a bid to identify the merits and demerits it has over other systems of manufacturing, especially the type been practiced by the Japanese whose products are not only of higher quality, but also affordable. The search led to their adoption of Lean Production System (LPS), which has many advantages over mass and craft systems of manufacturing. Questionnaires and semistructured interviews were employed for the survey in order to obtain a well-balanced result, and were targeted at the manufacturing SMEs in the automobile, aerospace, electronics and the plastics industries in the UK. The application of SPSS and Microsoft Excel software for the analysis showed that the current status of LPS in the UK SMEs is not very impressive, as although there are many improvements which are far better than what could be achieved with any other system of manufacturing, the companies have not really achieved much in terms of waste reduction and financial benefits. These could be attributed to the recent history of LPS implementation, as well as the limited knowledge the firms have on the LPS tools and techniques, especially as it regards to their inability to implement all of them harmoniously.

The World’s Best Practice in Manufacturing

This paper on the world"s best practice in manufacturing discussed in details the concept of Lean... more This paper on the world"s best practice in manufacturing discussed in details the concept of Lean Production System (LPS)a manufacturing approach that is distinct from mass and craft productions. Unlike the mass production that keeps the line moving at all costs but ends up doing massive amounts of rework at the end, Lean production entails spending of more effort upfront correcting problems before they multiply, and ends up with much less total efforts and higher quality in the end. The concept is geared towards turning manufacturing which used to be full of waste of time and resources into a well organized, efficient and more profitable venture. On the critical success factor of LPS implementation, the paper showed that the leadership of a company plays a very prominent role in determining the outcome of its application due to their strategic roles in decision making which will either make or mar the whole exercise. Supplier related problems, market boom losses, non commitment, lack of empowered workforce, and wrongful use of the tools and techniques of LPS by some manufacturing companies are posited as the major impediments and obstacles of the successful implementation of LPS. The work also showed that many manufacturing firms that have adopted the manufacturing approach have continued to considerably increase their market share, as it offers them a competitive advantage and numerous other benefits. These advantages include up to seventy five percent in waste and inventory reduction, increase in production capacity, outstanding decrease in work-in-progress, overall costs, reduction in lead time, overhead cost, and shop floor space, it also increases the quality of products,

The Influence of Personal Characteristics of Founders of Failed and Prospered Generational Transition Family Businesses in Anambra State

SSRN Electronic Journal

Family businesses which are often adjudged very risky ventures as a result of rapid decision maki... more Family businesses which are often adjudged very risky ventures as a result of rapid decision makings are quite different from other enterprises, as they contribute immensely in wealth creation, economic development, sustainability, employment and job opportunities, improved Gross Domestic Product, prospect from younger generations, as well as mentorship from experienced business leaders. However, despite their numerous contributions, they are often bedeviled by numerous challenges which often lead to their failures at the exit or death of their founders. This paper identified the rate of family businesses that have suffered generational transition failures in Anambra state, and also examined the differences in personal characteristics of founders of both failed and prospered Generational Transition (GT) family businesses in the state. The application of Taro Yamane formula gave a sample size of 327, a total of 327 questionnaires was therefore administered to Directors and Managers of Family businesses in the three main cities of Anambra state. The results of the study revealed that 72 percent of the family businesses fail after generational transition. Also, the analysis based on the mean of the individual questionnaire items, with the acceptance benchmark of 3 revealed that there are significant differences in the personal characteristics of the founders of the failed and successful generational transition family businesses. The regression analysis validated the results as indicated by the correlation coefficient (R = .868). It could also be observed from the coefficient of determination (R-Square = .792) that 79 percent differences exist in the relationship between the personal characteristics of founders of the failed and prospered GT family businesses in the state. The paper concluded that founders and Directors of FBs should adopt positive personal characteristics, in order to mitigate the high failure rates of family businesses.

Theoretical Design and Analysis of A Semi- Automatic Multiple-Spindle Drilling Head (MSDH) For Mass Production Processes in Developing Countries

This paper focuses on the design of a multiple spindle drilling head used for mass production of ... more This paper focuses on the design of a multiple spindle drilling head used for mass production of brake drums. Most of the local brake drum manufacturing industries in developing countries like Nigeria, still drill holes in brake drums and brake disks in as many operations as there are number of holes required in each of these items. Nigeria is cited here as an example. This has always led to work accumulation of turned but not yet drilled brake drums at the drilling points of the production lines of these products. This accumulation constitutes a space problem and encourages idle time. A gang-drilling (or a multiple spindle drilling) machine that could perform all the drilling operations in one operation, if possible, was needed to assist these industries. In response to this need, a Multiple-Spindle Drilling Head (MSDH) for these automobile manufacturing industries has been designed. The machine was designed as an attachment (accessory) to a main drill from which it derives the pow...

A Survey of Optimum Manufacturing Strategy as a Tool for Enhanced Industrial Revenue

This paper presents a detailed understanding of Optimum Manufacturing Strategy (OMS) also called ... more This paper presents a detailed understanding of Optimum Manufacturing Strategy (OMS) also called Lean Production System (LPS)), a manufacturing approach that is aimed at applying fewer resources to manufacture high quality products that meet the customer's requirements at less time, thereby increasing throughput and profitability. It also reviewed the numerous advantages of OMS through classical reports and survey studies. All the activities and the benefits, the common tools and techniques, the critical success factors, and the impediments and obstacles of OMS implementation were also discussed in detail. To achieve the research objectives, past literatures on the topic were reviewed. Apart from being applied to achieve continuous improvement through the identification and elimination of all wastes that are inherent in production processes, the study showed that the other advantages of the implementation include the reduction of the lead time, cycle time, inventory and work-in-...

The Implementation of Kaizen Manufacturing Technique: A Case of a Tissue Manufacturing Company

Globalization has really affected businesses all over the world, it is therefore pertinent for ma... more Globalization has really affected businesses all over the world, it is therefore pertinent for manufacturing Small and Medium-scale Enterprises (SMEs) to remain competitive in the market, since they contribute significantly to the Gross Domestic Product of every nation. One method of improving business competitiveness is by applying the concept of Continuous Improvement (CI), which is also known as Kaizen. This paper provides an insight into the implementation stages, critical success factors, and challenges of Kaizen Manufacturing Technique&#39;s (KMT) implementation, before analyzing the benefits of its implementation in an SME that specializes in tissue production. Planning, setting up of cross-functional teams, and Plan-Do-Check-Action Cycle were listed as the different stages of the manufacturing strategy, while management support, effective communication, education and training, organizational culture, skills and expertise, kaizen champion, and organizational structure were discussed in detail as the critical success factors of its implementation. On the barriers, the paper noted that resistance to change, failure to motivate the workforce, lack of understanding of a firm&#39;s strategic goal, as well as difficulties in managing continuous improvement are the main challenges of KMT successful implementation. MATLAB software was applied to analyze and compare the pre and post KMT daily production, defective products, and quality of products in the tissue manufacturing company. The results of the comparisons showed that the Kaizen technique outperformed the traditional production system in terms of daily production rate, defects, and product quality, as they recorded up to 60%, 31%, and 51% improvements respectively. The results showed that kaizen strategy even after reducing the staff strength from thirteen to twelve, also has the potential to reduce the rate of defects, and also increase the quality of products, and production throughput.

Nanocomposites -An Overview

Abstract:-The definition of nanocomposites has broadened significantly to encompass a large varie... more Abstract:-The definition of nanocomposites has broadened significantly to encompass a large variety of systems such as one-dimensional, two-dimensional, three-dimensional and amorphous materials, made of distinctly dissimilar components and mixed at the nanometer scale. This research presents a detailed definition of nanocomposites, its origin, classification, properties, benefits, as well as its future. With the proper choice of compatibilizing chemistries, the nanometer-sized clay platelets interact with polymers in unique ways. The paper shows that the application possibilities for packaging include food and non-food films and rigid containers. In the engineering plastics arena, a host of automotive and industrial components can be considered, making use of lightweight, impact, scratch-resistant and higher heat distortion performance characteristics. In plastics the advantages of nanocomposites over conventional ones don't stop at strength. The high heat resistance and low f...

The Design and Need for Jigs and Fixtures in Manufacturing

Abstract: The paper gave a detailed definition of jigs and fixtures, and also identified the nume... more Abstract: The paper gave a detailed definition of jigs and fixtures, and also identified the numerous advantages that are associated with the use of jigs and fixtures in manufacturing to include: production increase, cost reduction, interchangeability and high accuracy of parts, reduction of the need for inspection and quality control expenses, reduction of accident as safety is improved, automation of machine tool to an appreciable extent, easy machining of complex and heavy components, as well as low variability in dimension which leads to consistent quality of manufactured products. The work also explained that since the design is dependent on numerous factors which are analyzed to achieve an optimum output, that jigs and fixtures should be made of rigid light materials to facilitate easy handling. For adequate strength and rigidity, a mild steel with 16 millimeters diameter was chosen for the design of a sample jig and fixture. Mild steel which contain about 0.29 % of carbon are...

$Research paper thumbnail of Effect of particle size and volume fraction on the tensile properties of Wood Ash Particles Reinforced Polypropylene (WARPP) composites$

Effect of particle size and volume fraction on the tensile properties of Wood Ash Particles Reinforced Polypropylene (WARPP) composites

International Journal of Research in Advanced Engineering and Technology, 2018

Harnessing Science, Technology and Innovations (STI) for Sustainable Industrial and Economic Development

In this paper the critical nature of science, technology and innovations were established. The fu... more In this paper the critical nature of science, technology and innovations were established. The fundamental and unique roles for sustainable industrial and economic development were also discussed. The complex and multifaceted innovation systems and their interactive network (i.e. actors and linkages) were related. As regards what triggers off innovation, clear cases of recent development evolving as a result of negative technological responses like the challenge of carbon emission triggering off the development of eco friendly products were used to drive home the point. The paper then brought it home by addressing the state of science and technological innovation in Nigeria, stating reasons for poor state of science and technological innovations. Having identified the problems, the paper proffered solutions on the way forward with special focus on Nigeria. A coherent national policy guideline that is properly coordinated, sound educational system with adequate infrastructure, focusi...

Application of Taguchi Robust Design as Optimized Lean Production System in Manufacturing Companies

This paper focuses on the application of Taguchi Robust Design to Lean Production System to analy... more This paper focuses on the application of Taguchi Robust Design to Lean Production System to analyse Industrial production wastes. The purpose of this study is to present robust design approach that reduces and possibly eliminate losses to the society that arise due to variations leading to wastes in production processes. Past literatures were reviewed and applied to case study Innoson Vehicle Manufacturing Company (IVM) for the purpose of this study. The application of the Taguchi robust design approach to IVM motor production processes revealed that over-production, excess inventory, defects, and over-processing are the major wastes that are impeding their progress and profitability. The successful application of Taguchi robust design using Design Expert software to analyse two production periods produced varying results, and also revealed Overproduction and Excess inventory as the highest forms of wastes in the firm. In IVM’s first three months of production, over-production had t...

The World’s Best Practice in Manufacturing

International journal of engineering research and technology, 2013

This paper on the world‟s best practice in manufacturing discussed in details the concept of Lean... more This paper on the world‟s best practice in manufacturing discussed in details the concept of Lean Production System (LPS) – a manufacturing approach that is distinct from mass and craft productions. Unlike the mass production that keeps the line moving at all costs but ends up doing massive amounts of rework at the end, Lean production entails spending of more effort upfront correcting problems before they multiply, and ends up with much less total efforts and higher quality in the end. The concept is geared towards turning manufacturing which used to be full of waste of time and resources into a well organized, efficient and more profitable venture. On the critical success factor of LPS implementation, the paper showed that the leadership of a company plays a very prominent role in determining the outcome of its application due to their strategic roles in decision making which will either make or mar the whole exercise. Supplier related problems, market boom losses, non commitment,...

Computer aided process planning in manufacturing: A review

International Journal of Research in Advanced Engineering and Technology, 2018

Orthogonal Array Application and Response Surface Method Approach for Optimal Product Values: An Application for Oil Blending Process

World Academy of Science, Engineering and Technology, International Journal of Mathematical, Computational, Physical, Electrical and Computer Engineering, 2013

This paper presents a methodical approach for designing and optimizing process parameters in oil ... more This paper presents a methodical approach for designing and optimizing process parameters in oil blending industries. Twenty seven replicated experiments were conducted for production of A-Z crown super oil (SAE20W/50) employing L9 orthogonal array to establish process response parameters. Power law model was fitted to experimental data and the obtained model was optimized applying the central composite design (CCD) of response surface methodology (RSM). Quadratic model was found to be significant for production of A-Z crown supper oil. The study recognized and specified four new lubricant formulations that conform to ISO oil standard in the course of analyzing the batch productions of A-Z crown supper oil as: L1: KV = 21.8293Cst, BS200 = 9430.00Litres, Ad102=11024.00Litres, PVI = 2520 Litres, L2: KV = 22.513Cst, BS200 = 12430.00 Litres, Ad102 = 11024.00 Litres, PVI = 2520 Litres, L3: KV = 22.1671Cst, BS200 = 9430.00 Litres, Ad102 = 10481.00 Litres, PVI= 2520 Litres, L4: KV = 22.860...

The Application of Tools and Techniques of Total Productive Maintenance in Manufacturing

The quest toachieve optimal equipment maintenance has over the years constituted a myriad of prob... more The quest toachieve optimal equipment maintenance has over the years constituted a myriad of problems to manufacturing companies, as equipment losses, setup and adjustment, idling and minor stoppages, reduced machine speed, defective products, and reduced yield has adversely affected their desire to attain world class manufacturing. Hence, the need for a distinct manufacturing approach that will offer the much needed relief. This paper examined the concept of Total Productive Maintenance (TPM) a manufacturing approach that blends maintenance and productivity, and reinforces the fact that good care and up-keep of equipment will result in higher productivity and competitive advantage. The applications as well as the attendant benefits of the various tools and techniques of TPM which include Pareto Analysis, One Point Lessons (OPL), 5S Practice, Kaizen (Continuous Improvement), Autonomous Maintenance, PokaYoke, and Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE) were discussed in details. The OE...

Taguchi Robust Design for Optimal Setting of Process Wastes Parameters in an Automotive Parts Manufacturing Company

Robust Design and Optimization of Production Wastes: An Application for Industries

This paper focuses on robust design and optimization of industrial production wastes. Past litera... more This paper focuses on robust design and optimization of industrial production wastes. Past literatures were reviewed to case study Clamason Industries Limited (CIL) a leading ladder-tops manufacturer. A painstaking study of the firm’s practices at the shop floor revealed that Over-production, Waiting time, Excess inventory, and Defects are the major wastes that are impeding their progress and profitability. Design expert8 software was used to apply Taguchi robust design and response surface methodology in order to model, analyse and optimise the wastes cost in CIL. Waiting time and overproduction rank first and second in contributing to the costs of wastes in CIL. For minimal wastes cost the control factors of overproduction, waiting-time, defects and excess-inventory must be set at 0.30, 390.70, 4 and 55.70 respectively for CIL. The optimal value of cost of wastes for the months studied was 22.3679. Finally, a recommendation was made that for the company to enhance their profitabil...

Nanocomposites - An Overview

The definition of nanocomposites has broadened significantly to encompass a large variety of syst... more The definition of nanocomposites has broadened significantly to encompass a large variety of systems such as one-dimensional, two-dimensional, three-dimensional and amorphous materials, made of distinctly dissimilar components and mixed at the nanometer scale. This research presents a detailed definition of nanocomposites, its origin, classification, properties, benefits, as well as its future. With the proper choice of compatibilizing chemistries, the nanometer-sized clay platelets interact with polymers in unique ways. The paper shows that the application possibilities for packaging include food and non-food films and rigid containers. In the engineering plastics arena, a host of automotive and industrial components can be considered, making use of lightweight, impact, scratch-resistant and higher heat distortion performance characteristics. In plastics the advantages of nanocomposites over conventional ones don't stop at strength. The high heat resistance and low flammability...

Lean Production System Implementation in an Original Equipment Manufacturing Company: Benefits, Challenges, and Critical Success Factors

Often referred to as the global best practice in manufacturing, Lean Production system (LPS) is d... more Often referred to as the global best practice in manufacturing, Lean Production system (LPS) is defined as a manufacturing strategy that aims at waste reduction, by utilizing less resources to manufacture high quality products at reduced lead time, thus enhancing profitability and throughput. This study is aimed at appraising the status of 3 years LPS implementation in an original equipment manufacturing company, located in South East – Nigeria, by determining the challenges, benefits, and critical success factors of implementing the manufacturing process. The sample size of 90 from the company’s population size of 117 personnel was calculated with the application of Taro Yamane formula. The research was based on the 90 respondents, as 100 percent success rate was achieved in the collection of questionnaire administered to the management and the entire departments of the company. The findings of the study revealed that high cost LPS implementation, inadequate funding and training we...

Design and development of a proximity warning system for improved safety on the manufacturing shop floor

Journal of King Saud University - Engineering Sciences

The Status of Lean Manufacturing Initiatives in the UK Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises – A Survey

The importance of Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) in The United Kingdom (UK) cannot be ... more The importance of Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) in The United Kingdom (UK) cannot be over-emphasised, as they have been playing a very prominent role in the growth of the country"s economy. Often regarded as the core of manufacturing in the UK, the SMEs have in recent years been bedevilled with barrage of problems which were attributed to their traditional system of manufacturing which involves a lot of waste. Some of these problems facing them include stiff competition, low quality of products, as well as loss of market share. To this end, the companies began to question their manufacturing method, in a bid to identify the merits and demerits it has over other systems of manufacturing, especially the type been practiced by the Japanese whose products are not only of higher quality, but also affordable. The search led to their adoption of Lean Production System (LPS), which has many advantages over mass and craft systems of manufacturing. Questionnaires and semistructured interviews were employed for the survey in order to obtain a well-balanced result, and were targeted at the manufacturing SMEs in the automobile, aerospace, electronics and the plastics industries in the UK. The application of SPSS and Microsoft Excel software for the analysis showed that the current status of LPS in the UK SMEs is not very impressive, as although there are many improvements which are far better than what could be achieved with any other system of manufacturing, the companies have not really achieved much in terms of waste reduction and financial benefits. These could be attributed to the recent history of LPS implementation, as well as the limited knowledge the firms have on the LPS tools and techniques, especially as it regards to their inability to implement all of them harmoniously.

The World’s Best Practice in Manufacturing

This paper on the world"s best practice in manufacturing discussed in details the concept of Lean... more This paper on the world"s best practice in manufacturing discussed in details the concept of Lean Production System (LPS)a manufacturing approach that is distinct from mass and craft productions. Unlike the mass production that keeps the line moving at all costs but ends up doing massive amounts of rework at the end, Lean production entails spending of more effort upfront correcting problems before they multiply, and ends up with much less total efforts and higher quality in the end. The concept is geared towards turning manufacturing which used to be full of waste of time and resources into a well organized, efficient and more profitable venture. On the critical success factor of LPS implementation, the paper showed that the leadership of a company plays a very prominent role in determining the outcome of its application due to their strategic roles in decision making which will either make or mar the whole exercise. Supplier related problems, market boom losses, non commitment, lack of empowered workforce, and wrongful use of the tools and techniques of LPS by some manufacturing companies are posited as the major impediments and obstacles of the successful implementation of LPS. The work also showed that many manufacturing firms that have adopted the manufacturing approach have continued to considerably increase their market share, as it offers them a competitive advantage and numerous other benefits. These advantages include up to seventy five percent in waste and inventory reduction, increase in production capacity, outstanding decrease in work-in-progress, overall costs, reduction in lead time, overhead cost, and shop floor space, it also increases the quality of products,