Case History: BMK Group (sub ITA)

Summary

BMK Group, a leading German EMS provider with over 30 years of experience, has modernized its logistics with automated Eci storage systems. With a focus on efficiency, flexibility, and material traceability, the integration of ISM systems has revolutionized production. This strategic upgrade improves workflows, reduces manual interventions, and ensures process security. The company now operates more than 500 manufacturing orders monthly, significantly reducing setup times and enhancing IT security. BMK is positioning itself for future growth by further integrating automation, increasing productivity, and meeting evolving customer demands.

Takeaways

• 😀 BMK Electronic Solutions has been supporting customers for over 30 years in the development and production of electronic products.
• 😀 The company operates across multiple locations in Europe and Asia, with over 1,500 employees and a production area of more than 80,000 m².
• 😀 In 2024, BMK opened a new site in Augsburg, deciding to leave behind old warehouse systems due to space limitations.
• 😀 The new BMK facility in Augsburg is equipped with advanced technologies, including four SMT lines, six selective soldering machines, and seven testing lines.
• 😀 BMK chose to implement two ISM 3600 systems, expanded with ISM 3900 modules, to manage material handling more efficiently, particularly for 7-inch rolls.
• 😀 The ISM 3600 system's high-density packaging allows BMK to store and manage materials in a space-saving and fully automated manner.
• 😀 The introduction of automated ECI warehouse systems has significantly improved material handling speed, flexibility, and quality consistency.
• 😀 BMK’s monthly production involves over 500 different manufacturing orders and the processing of over 10,000 material batches.
• 😀 Automated systems have reduced machine setup times, allowing equipment to be reconfigured every 30 minutes and enhancing overall production efficiency.
• 😀 Employees benefit from automation by focusing on higher-value tasks rather than manual activities, increasing overall productivity.
• 😀 The integration of automated systems has improved traceability, security, and transparency in production processes, reducing manual errors.
• 😀 BMK is preparing for future growth by strategically implementing automation systems to adapt to new demands and maintain industry leadership.

Q & A

What is the role of BMK in the electronics industry?

BMK has been a German EMS provider for over 30 years, supporting clients from product development through to production of electronic products.

How many employees does BMK have and where are they located?

BMK employs more than 1,500 staff across multiple locations in Europe and Asia, working in a production space of over 80,000 square meters.

What was the challenge faced by BMK when moving to the new location in Augsburg?

BMK could not move its existing storage systems to the new location due to spatial limitations, requiring the need for new logistics solutions.

What is the role of the ISM 3600 and ISM 3900 systems in BMK's operations?

BMK chose two ISM 3600 systems, each extended with an ISM 3900 module, to optimize storage of 7-inch reels, which make up the majority of their materials. These systems allow for efficient, automated material management with high storage density.

How does the new automated system improve logistics at BMK?

The automated system significantly enhances efficiency by speeding up material availability, increasing flexibility, and ensuring consistent quality. It also reduces manual interventions and improves overall workflow.

What is the impact of the automated system on BMK's production team?

The production team experiences daily improvements, particularly in terms of faster material provisioning, improved traceability, and reduced manual tasks. This enhances process efficiency and reduces downtime.

How does the new system integrate with BMK’s existing infrastructure?

The system integrates seamlessly with BMK's existing warehouse management and production planning systems via API interfaces, allowing efficient connection with BMK’s EP system for real-time data sharing.

What types of products does BMK primarily manufacture?

BMK primarily manufactures products for the automotive industry and other industries with similar production requirements.

What was the advantage of automating BMK's material provisioning?

Automation of material provisioning improves speed, flexibility, and consistency, reducing manual labor and allowing staff to focus on higher-value tasks. It also improves the accuracy and traceability of materials.

How does the automation system contribute to BMK’s IT security and production continuity?

The system enhances IT security by autonomously managing storage locations, and ensures production continuity by maintaining transparency even if one system fails, allowing uninterrupted production.