Machine Utilization from Spindle Data Using MTConnect

Nowadays, sensors built in the machine can be used to monitor the machine parameters, and the information can be accessed using data sharing standards such as MTConnect. Overall equipment effectiveness (OEE) is one of the main criteria used to determine the efficiency and performance of the equipment [1]. The main portion of the OEE is related to the equipment utilization [2, 3]. The machine utilization can be calculated with various methods [4, 5]. The novel methodology developed in this study represents the utilization by considering the actual spindle speed and spindle load. The result, not only demonstrates the machine utilization from the time when the spindle was running but also the time when the machine was actually cutting the material as well as the time when the machine was cutting the material efficiently. The generated information, therefore, can be utilized to determine the downtimes of the equipment, increase the up times, and optimize the G-Code programs to higher OEE. The proposed methodology does not involve extra data acquisition equipment or sensors, can produce results in real-time, and will output information about the part cycle time, equipment utilization, and cutting time.