LPT removal ‘Point of use’ tooling trolley

Drawing Number: AD-2811-2025-03-1

Our Aerospace client asked us to design and build a set of very specialised trolleys for use in their factory – The tooling housed with this trolley are all pieces of support equipment which are used inline with any workscopes that take place involving the LPT (Low Pressure Turbine).

 

Scope:

The make-up of this trolley will be a box section mild steel frame with a 1600mm wide upper shelf.
All parts are to be foam lined to add extra protection but also adds a clear organisational element to the trolley.

As well as castors and push-handle for maneuvering in the factory, the trolley includes forklift pockets for easy transportation.

Provided with full Load test certification to an SWL of 60kgs.

The in-house processes involved in manufacturing this are:
– Laser cut steel tube
– Laser cut steel sheet
– Waterjet cut foam profiles
– Press brake bending to form trays/boxes
– MIG welding
– Powder coating & Assembly
– 3D printed tool retaining fixtures
– Quality inspection & Load testing certification

Solution:

Drawing No: AD-2811-2025-03-1 – 12855-P5

What are the advantages of properly organised tooling trolleys in manufacturing environments?

1. Improved Efficiency and Workflow

  • Quick Access to Tools: Technicians and engineers can keep all required tools in one organised, mobile station, reducing the time spent searching for equipment.

  • Reduced Downtime: Since the trolley can be wheeled directly to the work area, maintenance and assembly tasks can begin immediately without multiple trips to a tool store.

  • Streamlined Processes: Tools can be arranged in a logical sequence according to the assembly or repair workflow, speeding up task execution.


2. Enhanced Organisation and Tool Management

  • Shadow Boards & Foam Inserts: Many aerospace/automotive trolleys feature cutouts or labeled slots, ensuring tools are always returned to their correct location.

  • Tool Accountability: Helps with FOD (Foreign Object Debris) control by making missing tools immediately noticeable, which is critical in both industries.

  • Inventory Control: Integrated tool tracking systems or RFID tags can automatically log tool usage and location.


3. Increased Safety and Compliance

  • FOD Prevention: Properly secured tools prevent accidental drops or tool loss, which is especially crucial in aerospace assembly lines.

  • Ergonomic Design: Adjustable heights and easy maneuverability reduce strain on workers, lowering the risk of injury.

  • Compliance with Standards: Many aerospace and automotive quality standards (like AS9100 or IATF 16949) emphasise tool traceability and maintenance — trolleys help achieve this.


4. Mobility and Flexibility

  • Adaptable to Various Workstations: Easily moved between assembly lines, maintenance bays, or inspection areas.

  • Support for Lean Manufacturing: Encourages a “tools at point of use” approach, aligning with 5S and Kaizen principles.

  • Customisable Layouts: Drawers, shelves, and holders can be tailored to specific tooling needs for a particular aircraft component or car subsystem.


5. Cost Savings

  • Reduced Tool Loss & Damage: Proper storage decreases wear and tear, extending tool life.

  • Lower Downtime Costs: Faster tool access means less idle time for skilled technicians, improving overall productivity.

  • Shared Resources: One well-equipped trolley can serve multiple technicians across shifts, minimising redundancy.

 

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Acres have a range of standard products but also support clients with custom machinery and medium-high volume products such as trolleys, stillages etc. 

We have manufactured lots of different tables / workstations / workbenches for various industries.

We also manufacture access platformsjigs and fixtures and many other types of production support solutions / products. 

Talk to us today about your requirements: [email protected] / 01332695240 / Contact Us Form

 

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