AboutAaron Overbeek Expertise I am a Six Sigma Master Black Belt and Lean Champion. My expertise ranges from tacticle (local) implementation to strategic (global) implementation of Lean Six Sigma. Also knowledgable in Best Manufacturing Practices, Quality, Supply Chain, Engineering, and EH&S. I am not a consultant and do not mind follow up questions.
Experience Bachelors of Science in Manufacturing Engineering from the University of Michigan. Lean Champion and Six Sigma Master Black Belt. Member of the American Society of Safety Engineers, Society of Manufacturing Engineers, and ISO audetation.
Director of Operational Excellence and Strategic Sourcing for multi-billion dollar corporation.
Question can u suggest factors that should be taken into account for selection of site for a glass factory
Answer 1) Water. There is a large amount of cooling that takes place and the most efficient way is to pipe water into the process, filter, and discharge back into the water source. This will add some upfront EPA and regulatory costs but the long-term cost savings will be staggering.
2) Low humidity / high heat areas. The Central Valley in California is a great area. 10% humidity all year round which will reduce the variation in melting the glass. And between 70-110F in tempurature all year which will reduce the blow molding and extrusion processes. Colder teperature areas see a lot of defects in there cool down stage.
3) Natural resources. Look for a location that has large amounts of high grade silica. This will be cheaper to purchase and relax your freight costs for your raw materials.
4) Land Value. Don't put yourself in an industrial park or in a mjor city. The land value is inflated and the taxes you would have to pay is going to be outragous. Look for something on the outskirts of town but close to a major highway. Talk to the local governments about tax breaks and local EPA laws.
