Optimizing Lab Operation for Enhanced Efficiency and Productivity

Background:

Over 90 years of weathering history

• 3M has had an organized weathering program since the 1930s
• Weathering centralized in 1987 (founding of WRC)

Corporate Center for Durability and Service-Life Research

• Applying Weathering Science to predict product durability
• Conduct research to understand and quantify the effects of sunlight, heat, and water on product degradation
• Develop leading edge weathering technology to accelerate product development

Corporate Testing Center – Artificial & In-Service/Outdoor

• More than 100 accelerated weathering machines; most operating 24/7
• Global network of exposure sites representing 5 major climates:
• Hot desert /Tropical monsoon/Tropical savanna/ Mediterranean/Humid continental

Project Description:

The 3M Weathering Research Center is one of the largest accelerated weathering laboratories in the world. It processes approximately 3,000 to 4,000 samples at any given time, totaling over 35,000 samples annually, using more than 100 weathering machines. These machines continuously test a steady stream of new samples, all tracked through the Global Laboratory Information Management System (GLIMS). Each machine collects test data in real time, which is also integrated into the Global Laboratory Information Management System. The project aims to develop a comprehensive application and database to help lab analysts optimize machine utilization and manage consumables optimally.

Scope:

1. Each machine has the capacity to hold up to 110 samples, and there are multiple combinations available to optimize machine capacity for maximum utilization. In order to use the machine space efficiently and reduce any downtime, it is necessary to develop a systematic approach where incoming new samples, their test conditions, existing machine capacity needs to be considered to resourcefully consolidate and assign machine space. The goal is to develop a user-friendly interface to display machine utilization data which interfaces with our GLIMS at the backend.

2. Operation of weathering instruments requires consumable and accessories such as lamps and filters. The aim is also to develop a database and a dedicated page within the application described in scope 1 above to track ordered, received, and returned consumables. Additionally, by analyzing the lifespan of these consumables and the machines' operational hours, the application should predict the consumables requirement so that a healthy inventory can be maintained.