The Iron Age 1928-05-17: Vol 121 Iss 20

ESTABLISHED 1855 tured the thousands the basis mass pro- has its slogan, “No two cars alike.” Yet this the policy which the Stutz Motor Car Co. America, Inc., Indianapolis, has built substantial business. The fact that its manufacturing process calls for individuality, rather than standardization, turning out what might well termed custom-made car, does not imply that the company overlooks opportunities for introducing production economies. Its methods con- trolling inventory, reducing wastage, handling materials mechanically, inspecting all parts minute- and machining castings special operations have been responsible for the attainment high degree efficiency. period when automobiles are being manufac- Stock Turned Over Times Year closely watching its manufacturing schedules, the company has been able turn over its stock times year. The entire plant has only one stock- *Resident editor Cincinnati for New York, May 17, 1928 VOL. 121, No. Efficiency Without Volume Inventory Control, Reduction Waste and Intelligent Adaptation Materials-Handling Equipment Are Features Stutz Plant BURNHAM FINNEY* room, which adjacent the receiving department, and all departments call upon this source supply when need small parts. The larger units, such bodies and frames, not pass through the receiving department, but instead are delivered directly the point where work first begun them. The flow material into the factory regulated that the stock- room not crowded beyond its normal capacity and that the number larger units passing into the plant never exceeds the current demand, all unnecessary storing thereby being eliminated. The amount stock hand any time can computed from master file the office the receiv- ing clerk. The stock record consists yellow card, in., which the part name and the part number are put down. the left side place for informa- tion about the purchase the part, while the receiving, inspection and stores record occupies the center the card. Data regarding the issuance parts the pro- duction department the service department are set down space the right side. connection with the purchase record, there column which the number parts returned the maker can en- the Assembly Line, Turntables Are Used Make Rectangular Transfers the Frames 1375 4 tered. addition, record kept the quantity re- jected and salvaged. Whenever parts are issued from the stockroom, the amount taken subtracted from the total previously hand, that the clerk has before him the exact number all parts that are stock. For example, can turn the card showing the record part No. 20,911, which “stop and back light switch.” looking the column the right marked “on hand,” can determine the number stop and back light switches stock. Furthermore, going through the file and ascertaining from each card the same information, can tabulate short time the inventory the entire factory. Aside from the re- ceiving clerk’s office, the only other place the plant having these data the purchasing department. This simplified plan does away with the annoyance hav- ing numerous departments cluttered with records Weekly Budget Performance Controllable Manufacturing Expenses Incidentally, this rule has some exceptions that som men special work are paid the piece. Inspection Charged Production that wherever 100 per cent inspection specified expense the inspectors’ wages charged tion instead overhead expenses. Generally, cases, inspectors are concentrating their attention one type work. example this method charging costs found the receiving inspection partment, where time for the thorough examination parts applied manufacturing costs rather standard burden. Among the instruments used the receiving spection department are Brinell machine for taining the toughness and certain parts such connecting rods and other forgings DESCRIPTION | COmMTROLLER == | | 230 | Accounr Mn Serres | gat | | 232 MATERIA 233 LABOR Losses PERFORMANCE FOR MONTH TO DATE y PERFORMANCE FOR YEAR TO DATE = Yenpos Derecrs 234 | 236 | Day Rate Guananry 250 | Waers ano Wirme Race _| _One ano 252 AND 253 | Per foo.s AND | 254 | ACH Foreman Assigned Weekly Budget Controllable Manufacturing Expenses. The budget and actual performance figures, and the difference between them (either savings loss) are entered the smaller the two forms shown. The larger form for recapitulation the figures received from all the foremen duplicating those which are available all times the office the receiving clerk. Payment wages based group plan. Work- men are formed into small gangs not more than men and wage rate established for each man, but the amount wages determined the number units turned out the gang. For instance, each operator working along the motor assembly line has wage rate based the degree skill and the kind work does. paid, however, according the number motors which come off the assembly line rather than the individual operations performs. 1376—May 17, 1928, The Iron Age great strength required, Rockwell hardness tester, and scleroscope, which determines the hardness camshafts, piston pins, connecting rod bolts and other parts. Other inspections include the weighing valve springs, the comparison all front-end drive chains with master chain, the checking all cam- shafts with master shaft the comparator and the testing chassis springs for equalization. Since the company basis quality output rather than mass production, the employment work- men whose versatility above the average tive. many departments each operator called 1 = | 7 (Above) Frames Are Handled Quantities Overhead Monorail. (Below) When the chassis has been assembled, save for mounting wheels and tires, the body lowered through well from the floor above The Iron Age, May 17, som ue. de. 4a! | q z “ a = a q put rk- ra- ; led 4 upon several things requiring unusual skill. Es- pecially during periods when the factory running less than capacity and the number workmen be- low normal the versatility each operator brought into play, for often one man must divide his time be- tween the work which accustomed and job ordinarily done another man. Each large division the plant, such the ma- chine shop, charge foreman. Under him are various gang leaders, each whom may supervis- ing gangs two three departments. This arrange- ment makes for the concentration responsibility and gives the foremen authority generally lodged the superintendent the average metal-working plant. Budget Plan Cuts Down Waste Wastage all departments has declined marked extent through the successful operation budget plan recently devised. The plan calls for yearly budget that allows each department stated amount each month for wastage and other losses. Each foreman receives “weekly budget performance” controllable manufacturing expenses form sheet, this sheet are listed the following items: Re-operations account, material shortages, sal- vage expense, material losses, uncontrollable labor losses, salvaging vendor defects, idle time, day rate guaranty, waste and wiping rags, oils and greases, rasoline and kerosene, perishable tools and abrasives, electrical supplies and general shop supplies. There are some items not included which the foreman must fill complete the record for his department. For example, the foreman the machine shop would add setting-up time, tool grinding and sweepers and jani- tors. Next the names the items column for the weekly budget basis, which the units for the week and the rate are listed. The unit the budget based each $100 the payroll for the depart- ment. The second major division the sheet gives the figures the performance for the week. Here there column which the budget put down, second column for the actual performance figures, and third for either the savings the losses. The third major division details the performance for the month, while the bottom the sheet the right the total savings losses for the year date are listed. the lower left hand corner are given expenses for main- taining machinery and processing equipment, stock handling and assembling equipment, and dies, jigs and STUTZ MOTOR CAR CO. OF AMERICA fixtures. recapitulation the figures from all the foremen put separate sheet, which goes the superintendent the plant. Bonuses Given Foremen for Reducing Losses create and maintain spirit competition among the foremen cutting down wastage, the fore- man making the best showing each month receives from the management bonus $25. Bonuses $20, $15, $10 and also are awarded the second, third, fourth and fifth positions. Winners are chosen the basis the percentage savings the departmental expense indirect labor, material and direct labor losses and manufacturing supplies. the foreman performing the most outstanding service each month goes extra bonus $25. Each the three oper- ating officials names the foreman who has, his opinion, contributed the most the previous month the efficiency the organization whole. These names are submitted the foremen, who vote for the man they consider most deserving recognition, and the man getting the highest number votes wins. Every morning the foremen gather the salvage room, into which, during the previous day, has been brought all material branded defective. this meeting the foremen examine each piece determine whether can salvaged, whether shall the scrap pile whether should returned the maker. Thus, since each man sees his fellow foremen examining the defective work turned out his depart- ment, his pride spurs him his efforts increase the efficiency his men. interesting note, this regard, that less than year the size the salvage department has been cut per cent, this decrease re- corresponding lowering waste. Variety Materials-Handling Methods Used Progressive Assembly Since unusual care exercised every activity, from the examination raw materials they come into the factory the final inspection, when the car ready shipped the dealer, the movement parts from one operation the next necessarily slow. Under the circumstances, straight-line convey- ing system, depending for its success upon continu- ous flow materials, would impractical, because its cost operation would excessive view the small number units which would move along daily. However, this does not mean that the eompany cannot use mechanical transportation materials lower PART No PART NAME woons PURCHASE RECORD Pur ORDER REC Record Cards, Keptinthe Receiving Clerk’s Office, Stock Hand Can Com- puted Any Time 7 | q 4 | | | | | | i | | 1378—May 17, 1928, The Iron Age production costs; merely signifies that meet spe- cial conditions specially designed equipment has been constructed the place standardized convey- ors. But there are several parts the plant which standard types conveying equipment are used. Automobile frames are taken hoist from the first floor the second through opening the ceiling, and the same means used lower fenders and other enameled stock from the enameling department the assembly line the points where they are needed. Frames are carried lots five Louden over- head monorail conveyor the various operations the frame department. Then they are taken hoist the next floor the beginning the assembly line. Incidentally, the frame upside down when reaches the line, that the front and rear axles, springs, spring shackles and step hangers and brackets can When this work com- pleted, workmen slip chain around the frame, raise few feet with block and tackle, turn right side and place small trucks running truck being placed under the front axle and another under the rear axle. the frame starts down the track, shock ab- sorbers are assembled and the brake, shields, brake tubing, and exhaust muffler are installed. progressing along the track, the frame sprayed with booth containing turntable that the frame can moved around quickly for the convenience the workman. When the frame reaches the corner the room, swings about another turntable and starts away right angles. Within short space the running boards, gasoline tank, shock absorbers, bat- tery box, battery, gasoline line, chassis-lubricating oil lines and electric wiring are installed. Body Lowered Through Well Chassis Below the chassis moves along the assembly line, the motor dropped into place, the radiator put and the brake system filled. Next the chassis-lubrication oil reserves, magazines, are filled, and oil forced high pressure through all the spring bushings. few feet farther on, the steering gear assembly installed and the body mounted the chassis. The last-named operation particularly interesting. The assembly line the second floor and the body de- partment the third. Finished bodies are brought open shaft directly over the assembly line where the body mounted the chassis. The body then lowered means hoist into the proper position the chassis. Tires and wheels are brought from the wheel de- partment the fourth floor the assembly line means chute just wide enough for tire move easily upright position, handling costs having been eliminated this inexpensive method. the machine shop variety methods used for handling materials. two instances roller con- veyors are utilized for carrying certain parts short distance, but this the exception rather than the rule. For transporting heavy castings from one machine another Louden overhead monorail system, with va- rious types carriers suspended from the monorail, used. Foremen Meet Every Morning and Examine Each Piece Rejected Material Determine Whether Can Salvaged and some parts the shop, tools are compactly arranged that the castings being machined are within reach the man charge the next operation. For interdepartmental hauls electric lift trucks have been found economical. These are particularly satisfactory for conveying small parts from the stockroom the departments where they are needed. Nowhere the plant greater care taken than the painting department. Bodies “in the white,” their raw state, are filed remove the major rough spots from the metal, and then are sanded eliminate any minor roughness. acid bath takes away all dirt, filings and other particles that might cause rough paint surface keep the paint from adhering. After priming and filler coats have been applied, the bodies are sent baking ovens. After the baking process the bodies are again rubbed, from four eight coats lacquer are sprayed and finally applied. After the polish- ing, hairline stripes are painted the molding the bodies and along the hood louvers. One the distinctive features the fact that there are two cars which the com- bination colors, espe- cially the stripes, the same. means the meth- ods just described the Stutz Motor Car Co. plan stressing quality individuality. achieve the best results, principles mass production have been adopted suc- cessfully some cases, but other instances special problems have required special treatment. That its means handling materials, its efforts prevent wastage, its thorough inspection parts and its close control inventory have contributed directly eco- nomical production the testimony the manage- ment. Cuts Costs Laying Cable Completely automatic, novel subterranean cable- laying machine, said have been designed German manufacturer, has been operation Germany since last October, says report received the machinery division, Department Commerce, from Trade Commissioner Thomas Butts, Berlin. The machine combined trench digger, cable layer and trench filler. said that the cost laying cable has been reduced per cent this device and that, with crew only five men, does the work formerly accomplished 150 workmen. The entire apparatus meters (60 ft.) long and three meters (10 ft.) wide and weighs tons. The digging apparatus alone weighs 15.5 tons, and the cable car weighs 6.4 tons. “Use Welding Fabrication,” was the subject Brinton, Westinghouse Electric Mfg. Co., the monthly meeting the Pittsburgh section, American Welding Society, the quarters the Engineers’ So- ciety Western Pennsylvania, William Penn Hotel, Pittsburgh, Wednesday evening, May Mr. Putman talked design and manufacturing, and Mr. Brinton the engineering phases the subject. The Iron Age, May 17, 1928—1379 Roll New Carnegie Beams Bloomer and Three Stands Designed for Huge Ton- nage—Automatic Control Screwdowns Feature SIDNEY KOON* 1925 nine mills more less ancient vintage occupied the site utilized the reconstruc- tion the structural unit the Homestead Works the Carnegie Steel Co. keep these mills running during the construction period was engineering feat itself. But shifting hot beds, and even reversing the direction travel from the hot beds, all were kept operation until the first new unit, the standard struc- tural mill, was service. These old mills consisted 40-in. blooming mill and 35-in. structural mill; 33-in. blooming mill and 23-in. and 33-in. structural mills; 28-in. and 38-in. blooming mills and two old merchant mills, 16-in. and 12-in., which had long been inactive. All have been completely the last, the 38-in. blooming mill, went few months before the Carnegie H-beam mill was put operation. Included the new development are dual set mills running parallel each other, with large motor room between them, and with soaking pits the end interconnected that, although one set nominally erves one mill and the other set the other mill, ingots may shifted from either set either mill. There are acres covered under the one roof. Incidentally more than 1000 tons structural steel the acre were have 26,818 tons it. One set mills includes 44-in. blooming mill, fol- lowed roughing mill and 28/32-in. structural mill rolling standard sections. This was the first in- stalled and has taken over the work rolling the sections formerly made the old, discarded mills. When this unit got into production the remainder the site was cleared the older equipment. *Associate editor New York. the north side the motor room the new mill rolling the Carnegie H-beams was then put in. This consists blooming mill, the largest and heaviest the world, and three 52-in. sets—roughing, intermediate and finishing. This group was designed for production 26,000 tons month, but has actually had maximum day high 2533 tons. beam sections rolled comprise series structural shapes depths ranging from They have flanges uniform thickness—in other words, parallel—throughout their width, and are designed cover the range maximum structural demand for buildings and bridges and pro- vide simple rolled sections where, previously, large ton- nages built-up members were required. Sections are provided within this range suitable for use beams, girders and columns, with flange widths vary- ing from in. and weights from 425 the foot. Clearing the site the new mill was started March 1926. The first ingot was rolled the bloom- ing mill Nov. that year and the first H-beam the 52-in. mill Dec. 30. Trial beams had gone through previously and necessitated slight adjustment the rolls, until production really got under way, mentioned, just before the end the year. Large Electric Units Required conjunction with the new equipment, 15,000-kw. turbo-generator, with boiler plant and auxiliaries, was installed the Carrie furnaces across the river. Elec- tric drive used throughout and the interconnecting control the electric basis most elaborate. The roughing and the intermediate sets have two motors Manipulator Handling Beam Blank for the 54-In. Blooming Mill, Which Appears Background 1380—May 17, 1928, The Iron Age ft. stre res] mot this thr blo | q 7 AN — each, one 7000 hp. for the main stand and one hp. for the edging rolls. These are controlled each case that the bar between the sets rolls (12 apart) driven these two motors stretched nor forced. other words, the speeds the respective rolls are synchronized automatically with each other. Both these stands are reversing, and the motors correspondingly are the reversing mill type. The finishing stand operated 5000-hp. induc- tion motor, non-reversing. Only one pass made this stand, whereas customarily there are nine passes through the roughing stand and five through the inter- mediate, making average total passes. The blooming mill driven 8000-hp. motor, which Works Both BothWays Ways Ways Ways Only How the Three Stands Rolls Work Success- ively the Steel. Fig. shows the ac- tion the “edging” rolls preceding the roughing stand and following the intermediate stand. Fig. in- dicates the tion vertical and horizontal main rolls roughing and in- termediate stands. Fig. shows the straightening Shear Blooming Mill Roughing Stand and planishing Passes Passes effect the fin- Work Flange Work Whole ishing stand Edges Only Section Flange Edges Roll (Upper) Edging ower) Edging Stand has maximum operating peak rating 14,400 hp. This also reversing unit, the largest this type ever built. Flexible Control for Soaking Pits the west end the plant are the soaking pit furnaces. There are seven units four holes each the north bank, designed for serving the H-beam mill, and duplicate set the south bank for serving the structural mill. The stacks are the middle be- tween the two sets. Tunnels under the pits, providing access the regenerator chambers and gas-control ap- are provided with amount automatic equipment. One man each turn suffices look after these underground sections. Special control equipment for the soaking pits per- mits the pit craneman open close the pit covers during charging drawing ingots. Each bank Pits served two 15-ton low stiff-leg cranes, span- ning four pits once. The lines pits are located about ft. apart and the contact rails are sections ft. correspond. The ingot car under the con- trol either craneman and set the most con- venient position for loading. While the craneman can- Roughing Stand Main (Upper) Main Stand not operate any pit except those opposite the section contact rail which happens the mo- ment, they may operated from the floor the usual electric control. Safeguards are provided that, when the pit cover being operated from the floor, cannot moved the craneman. When the ingot has been loaded into the ingot car the craneman starts the loaded car toward the bloom- ing mill. The car automatically stopped, without further attention from him, and the ingot dumped upon the waiting transfer car the transfer car op- erator. This car operates track running right angle the approach tables the 44-in. and the 54-in. blooming mills. One man operates the two transfer Both May Work One Pass Intermediate Stand Intermediate Stand Finishing Stand Passes Passes Works Whole Section Work Whole Work Flange Except Flange Edges Except Only Flange Edges Main Rol/ (Upper) Vertical Roll (Idler) Finishing Stand FIG.3 cars serving the two mills. also controls both ingot cars after they have passed into the dumping zone. The track accommodating the ingot transfer bug- gies extends far enough beyond the approach tables the two blooming mills that either buggy may serve either mill, although regular operation the north buggy serves the north mill and the south buggy the south mill. This arrangement makes for great flexibility case breakdown either buggy. Between the 54-in. blooming mill and the 44-in. blooming mill runout tables row three large reheating furnaces, which are used for supplying the 36-in. mill. H-beams, however, are rolled direct from the ingots through the four sets comprising the 54-in.- 52-in. units. Great Length the H-Beam Mill Layout Spacing the new mill, center center main rolls, 299 ft. from the 54-in. blooming mill the roughing stand. From the roughing stand the main rolls the intermediate stand the distance 190 ft., with 210 ft. from the intermediate the finishing stand. Beyond the finishing stand transfer table the hot saw, measuring 208 ft. length. The longi- The Iron Age, May 17, tudinal distance from the blooming mill rolls the hot saw 917 ft. in. the piece enters the roughing mill meets first set known edging rolls. These are not vertical rolls, the term “edging rolls” customarily indicates. They are rolls with horizontal axes, and receive their name from the fact that they work only the toe edge (A, Fig. the flanges the beam. They serve also feeder into the main rolls, even though they not effect much reduction. The main rolls not touch the edges which have just been worked the edging rolls, but work across the entire face the web (C, Fig. and the inside faces (B) the flanges. Meantime the rolls with vertical axes, operating tapered roller bearings, work the outside the flange (D) over its entire width. plan view these Entering Side the Intermediate Stand the H-Beam Mill. left the pulpit from which the mill controlled. flood light atop the pulpit aids night work rolls with vertical axes are line with the main They lie between the necks those rolls, but are not driven. Their rotation imparted the steel pass- ing through, but they give definite rolling action nevertheless, through the rigid control over their cen- ter distances. the intermediate set rolls this procedure reversed. The bar this time has acquired the fa- miliar tongue, that may gripped the surfaces the main rolls and pulled through. Here again set vertical rolls—idlers—works the outside ‘the flange, while the main rolls work the inside the flange and clear across the web. this set the so- called edging rolls come after the main rolls, and give the necessary amount work the edges the flanges. these edges are not touched the finishing rolls, fitting that they should here the last worked on. Throughout the preceding process manufacture the flanges have been flared outward, accordance with the sketches. This has permitted the operation the main rolls upon both flange and web, while the idler vertical rolls are shaped accordingly. The sketches 1382—May 17, 1928, The Iron Age exaggerate the angularity, show the principle. The finishing rolls are primarily merely straightening and planishing set, including both horizontal and tical rolls. They overcome the slight angularity the relation between web and flange, which was greater the roughing rolls than the intermediate, and out finished product which the respective angles deg. (Fig. 3). Thus that the product comes with parallel-sided flanges. Stiff Support the Rolling Members the design the mill was arranged short section unsupported roll between ings possible. this end, sets distance each set suited certain sections rolled the mill, are used space the housings their relation each other. That half the housing which farthest from the motors and spindles arranged that may slid, direction parallel the axis the main rolls, position determined the section rolled. Thus, when 12-in. beam being rolled, the two halves the housing are about foot closer together than when 24-in. beam being rolled. All this means greater stiffness the equipment and must help uniformity the product. Pins and other connections used setting the mill, roll changes, are subject the usual drive fit, thus securing the highest degree the necessary aline- ment, and accuracy positioning the parts. Spare rolls are stored wholly under cover. Advan- tage has been taken the presence long, narrow space between the mill tables and the motor room put racks where several hundred rolls may placed. This avoids the rusting rolls get when stored outdoors, and the same time makes the rolls particularly ac- cessible, they are under the same crane which used placing them the mill. Two operators control the main and auxiliary drives the blooming mill. The roller controls the setting the rolls and operates front and back mill tables 7 Finishing Stand the 52-In. Beam Mill, Left Foreground. Near extreme right the intermediate stand, 210 ft. away. right foreground the pulpit for the finishing stand. Against the wall the roll storage. Back the wall the motor room hand master-switches. means foot master- switch controls the speed and direction rotation the reversing motor. The roller’s helper operates the approach table for the mill. During the rolling the ingot, controls also the electrically-driven manipulators. Roughing and intermediate mills have automatic screw-down devices. These permit one man, using single master-switch, operate the three screw-downs, which automatically stop predetermined settings means specially designed limit switch. Through similar automatic control, proper speed relations are obtained between the motors driving the main and the edging stands for any conditions drafting. The standard foot master-switch enables this same man Used Connec- tion with Auto- Control for the Intermediate Stand the 52- in. Mill. This set for the suc- cession reduc- tions made the mill and thereafter matically controls for both horizon- tal rolls control the speed and direction rotation both mill Owing the ease with which this man can set the screw-downs and control the main motors, able also run the approach table and the front and back tables, and operate the valves controlling the cooling water for the rolls and the steam jets for removing scale. This man controls thirteen operations during the rolling each beam. Since the drafting follows predetermined schedule, and the roll settings are made automatically through electric limit switch control system, product obtained which free from the internal rolling stresses sometimes caused irregular drafting. From the time the bloom leaves the bloom shear until the finished The Iron Age, May 17, 1928—1383 ling ver. q q beam delivered from the finishing pass, all opera- tions are controlled four men. Automatic Setting Screw-Downs One the most interesting features control the mill lies the automatic devices for adjusting the position the rolls for successive passes. There are the pulpit the roughing set three large spiral limit switches intricately wired and connected with the various control units. These are set ad- vance for each section which rolled. They auto- matically synchronize the movement the three pairs rolls the stand such that the proper drafts are taken the successive similar equipment used the intermediate set. the rolls are worn use many them are Motor Room for the Standard Beam Mill and the H-Beam Mill. The motors and motor-generator sets for the latter are the right. the far end the blooming mill motor, with the others nearer the reader. The motors the left are for the standard beam mill dressed take care sections less depth. reported that there has been surprising absence trouble from bearings since this mill was started. None the roller bearings has had changed, largely because they were designed with ample overload capac- ity. Automatic forced grease lubrication applied all horizontal roll necks, well vertical rolls, and also widely applied tables and manipulators. oil circulating systems supply all mill pin- ion lubrication, well large portion the table system. THE IRON AGE June 23, 1927, page 1815, was published brief account the new Homestead struc- tural mills, primarily from the electric side. This gave many details motor speeds, motor-generator fly- wheel sets, and other particulars not necessary repeat here. Handling Steel and from the Mill laying out the mill was found that, spite the 2000 ft. length available for the entire plant, would not possible have long enough run be- tween stands permit bars rolled back and forth one and then the other without interference. Hence, between the roughing set and the intermediate set there offset ft. in., which bars are transferred sidewise before entering the intermediate 1384—May 17, 1928, The Iron Age stand. The opinion expressed the engineers that, although this move was forced conditions, one which would probably repeated subsequent design, even the conditions did not require it. because the narrow transfer does not interfere with rolling either set and has the advantage bringing the sets closer each other. Beyond the long transfer the hot saw hot bed occupying space about 100 250 ft. This three independent sections, each some 100 ft., permitting great flexibility handling the uct. Alongside the hot bed roller straightener for the smaller beams and two gag presses for the larger beams. Two cold saws are provided also. Shipping the product takes place wide bay running right angle the length the mill, and covering also the stripping floor the new structural mill the south the H-beam mill. This bay has three 20-ton cranes unusual design. Bars come from the mill east and west direction. For shipping they have turned north and south, through deg. Each crane has turntable its trolley, which operated from the cab and which carries spreader arm. each end the spreader arm separate hoist tons capacity. These may oper- ated either independently unison. For handling the big product the mill they are operated, course, unison. One great incidental advantage this equipment lies the fact that the trolley may run over one end the bridge, with the spreader parallel the bridge, thus making possible pick much 10-ton load the adjoining bay. The de- sign rigid that such load one end the spreader does not upset the equilibrium the unit. Storage space for stock provided adjoining bays, 3.7 acres being available under cover for this purpose. Between the blooming mill and the roughing stands transfer whereby hot steel may shunted off other operations during the time roll changes the 52-in. mill. From the transfer the blooms pass upon pivoted roller table which may swung through about deg., thus delivering the blooms upon the approach table wheel-blank cutting machine. Here rounds rr I ] 7 = Ft wae = & in. diameter are cut off such length may required for the wheels being made the Schoen Steel Wheel Works, where these blanks are sent. Between the pivoted roller table and the cutting machine further detour, means which slabs rolled the blooming mill may taken off and shipped plate mill some distance. For this pur- pose the slabs have reheated, course. Within the area the new mills were several old boiler plants serving these several mills. All these were dismantled and taken out, the number more than 100 boilers. Ten waste-heat boilers were installed connection with open-hearth plant No, for heat- and other purposes around the mill. Power, how- ever, derived now from the new turbo-generator across the river. The Homestead works organization was responsible for the remarkable speed with which the entire con- struction program for all the new mills was carried out, while successfully meeting the requirement that none the product the old mills should lost. The Homestead organization also credited with the complete design the 52-in. Carnegie H-beam mill and the novel features roll design used this mill. Urges Curb “Price Chamber Commerce United States Adopts Resolution Favoring “Firm Wider Knowledge Production and Distribution Data Need Industry Chamber Commerce the United States Washington last week two resolutions were adopted with view establishing more “teamwork” manufacturing and industrial expansion and elimi- nating “price hammering and price cutting.” Both were introduced through Horner, president Niles- Bement-Pond Co., New York. The noting the rapid growth and tremendous development the nation’s industries, accompanied excessive productive capacity many lines, called for knowledge the true cost production and distribution, based upon uniform cost accounting for given industry, and the necessity for wide publicity through trade associa- tions reliable statistics covering current facts orders, shipments, stocks, etc. Chambers commerce interested promoting new industries for their com- munities were asked consider such current economic facts before encouraging development additional capacity any given industry. The second resolution, pointing prevalent “price hammering buyers and price cutting sellers,” affecting profits and stability many businesses, de- clared for system firm prices and bids, which, was stated, would not lessen competition and would benefit the public. Trade associations, cham- bers commerce and the business press were urged use their influence créate widespread sentiment favor such prices and bids, which would not re- duced once they were submitted. discussing these resolutions, Mr. Horner declared that there need for outstanding leaders step into the open and lead the way better, saner and more honorable methods conducting their busi- ness and education executives not well informed.” Purchasing agents who engage the practice “pounding” down prices were criticized Liss- berger, president Marks Lissberger Son, Inc., Long Island City, said that, beating down prices products that they purchase, the prices their own products are reduced and that therefore the practice reacts the detriment their own industries. also urged trade association executives obtain and distribute more business facts means prevent- ing the hammering down prices. the meeting the manufacturers’ group the Business Statistics Defended spirited reply one delegate, who objected that trade statistics not mean anything except time and expense, DuBrul, general manager National Machine Tool Builders’ Association, Cincinnati, stoutly maintained that such facts are absolutely essential the intelligent conduct business, but that one diffi- culty that some executives not use them after they are supplied. discussing price cutting, Mr. DuBrul complained that there lack courage the part sellers maintaining their figures, with the result that profits are brought down. George National Pipe and Suppliers’ Association, Pittsburgh, said that the problem distribution be- coming more intense each day, but that men are get- ting into distribution who are not qualified either education capital. paper “Labor Conservation—Teamwork for Lower Costs Production,” prepared Ching, president American Management Association, New York, was read Donald, director the association. New machinery methods production were declared the one thing which has raised man from mere existence level economic independence. Those who would limit restrict this development, was said, are fighting against industrial progress and striking the basic cause the present high standard living. Com- parative freedom the United States from opposition improved methods production the part both employees and management was named one the most important factors the industrial supremacy this country. The favorable attitude both workers and executives, their teamwork and confidence each other, was declared necessary factor which had developed improved methods production and bene- fited wage earner, management, stockholders and the general public through greater output goods and cheaper costs. examination the census manufactures was said show conclusively that the per capita the wage earner has increased direct proportion the per capita value goods produced. One the important reasons for the relationship between workers and management was declared the lack class consciousness the United States. “Our industrial organization unusually demo- cratic,” was pointed out. “The wage earner today management cannot regarded set apart from the rest the organization. super-imposed group. Its ranks are being continually filled from every posi- tion within industry.” Denounces Government Muckraking address general session the chamber, William Humphrey, chairman the Federal Trade Commission, strongly denounced Government muck- raking investigations based merely upon the hope finding something scandalous reprehensible. Mr. Humphrey said that utterly opposed any in- vestigation the Federal Trade Commission that not based upon alleged violation the law. Construc- tive methods which the commission cooperating with business eliminate abuses and unfair trade practices were outlined Commissioner Humphrey. The Iron Age, May 17, 1928—1385 at, fas ith rer j Addressing the foreign commerce group, Dr. Julius Klein, director the Bureau Foreign and Domestic Commerce, Department Commerce, spoke foreign trade combinations and the course his remarks said that the cartel has its distinct limitations and means affords the panacea which had been confi- dently expected it. The international steel cartel was cited example proof his statement. said, however, there need for collaboration the furthering uniform commercial legislation, for the interchange statistical information along mutually helpful lines, etc., advancing the standards and pos- sibilities the world’s commerce. Era Large Unit Business Only Begun The outpouring restrictive and regulatory laws from American legislatures was subjected attack Silas Strawn, chairman the board Montgomery Ward Co., Chicago, and president the American Bar Association, general session. predicted that the era the big unit business only beginning. “Commencing with the amalgamation the con- stituent companies into the United States Steel Corpo- ration, 1901, the last years may known the age tne big unit,” said Mr. Strawn. “Competition and economy have made necessary the creation big units almost every industry and business. predict that the age the big unit has only just begun and that the future the problem our Congress and our legislatures should be, and let hope may be, not how combinations capital and labor may dis- integrated and destroyed, but how they should reg- ulated and controlled best serve the people.” International Trade and Finances Discussed New problems, national well international, confronting the United States the most productive country the world were discussed the annual din- ner last Thursday evening, which was attended some the country’s most distinguished industrialists and business men. Owen Young, chairman General Elec- tric Co., presided. Among questions dealt with were how foreign countries are pay for the growing vol- ume supplies purchased America and how the United States maintain and control its growing productive energy. warning that this country cannot indef- initely receiving yearly increasing amount in- terest and sinking fund payments its loans and investments and maintain its present tariff policy and export trade was given Dr. Alberto Pierelli, Milan, Italy, president International Chamber Commerce. said, however, there would appear number compensating influences, such the rising stand- ards living this country and throughout the world. Sometimes, also, new scientific discoveries revolutionize the course economic development, was pointed out. Nor should the influence incident the development new territories disregarded, Doctor Pierelli said. Better Control Increasing Production Urged Adequate control the economic thunderbolt increasing production unloosed industry was put forward Lewis Pierson, retiring president the chamber, the overshadowing problem busi- ness. said that the nation has new problem be- fore and must prove that production its servant and not its master. must, said, demonstrate that has the will and the skill control the machine has created. Closer cooperation the part busi- ness, labor, agriculture and finance accomplish this purpose was predicted Mr. Pierson. foresaw teamwork the part these interests lifting the fear unemployment and suffering from the minds 1386—May 17, 1928, The Iron Age those who toil, permitting the wheels industry turn with increasing effectiveness “to bring more and more the comforts and even the luxuries life all who contribute the productive power America and remove the threat unused surplus from the nation that has staked its economic future the doctrine increasing production.” Joseph Defrees Elected Chairman Following the conclusion the convention, the board directors Friday elected officers for the ensuing year. Joseph Defrees, lawyer and business man Chicago, was chosen chairman the board, succeeding Judge Edward Parker. William Butter- worth, president Deere Co., Moline, was elected president, succeeding Lewis Pierson. Other officers elected were: Vice-president Eastern division, Alfred Brosseau, New York, president Mack Trucks, Inc.; vice-president South Central division, Robert Ellis, Memphis, Tenn., president Hessig-Ellis Drug Co.; vice- president North Central division, Robert Lamont, Chicago, president American Steel Foundries; vice- president Western division, Paul Shoup, San Francisco, executive vice-president Southern Pacific Co.. Frede- rick Haynes, Detroit, chairman the board Dodge Brothers, was reelected director. Purge Business Corruption, Resolution Urges The outstanding resolution, following the lines the keynote address the meeting Judge Parker, while recognizing the general integrity business, urged that purged commercial and political corruption and other dishonest practices. reaffirmed the chamber’s principle that “business should render restrictive legislation unnecessary through conduct- ing itself deserve and inspire public confidence.” Another resolution opposed government that can successfully undertaken and conducted public interest private enterprise. resolution concerning the Federal courts, the chamber deplored efforts the legislative branch usurp limit the functions the judiciary which, was said, must re- sult disaster. passing upon taxation, resolution urged reduction the corporate income tax not more than per cent, the elimination the war excise taxes particular business and repeal the estate tax; another resolution urged greater efficiency the administration Federal taxation. Opposition Government operation the merchant marine was expressed and approval given pending legislation for the encouragement private shipbuilding and operation through loans. Opposition also was reiter- ated respecting provisions the Jones-White bill, which authorize the Shipping Board include its activities marine underwriting, which was held con- stitute unnecessary and unsound abridgment pri- vate enterprise. Amendment the national de- fense act permit the placing educational orders with industries was urged. Collective buying imported raw materials not available the United States was sponsored, with ad- vocacy amendment the Webb-Pomerene act this end. was held that this would assist re- leasing American buyers from the grip foreign monopolies. Industrial information was recognized being necessary that business may conducted in- telligently; the gathering and distribution such ma- terial, bearing upon true costs production and dis- tribution based upon uniform cost accounting, was ap- proved. Appreciation and support were given the policies the Department Commerce for the promotion commercial aviation, giving private initiative en- couragement toward building air commerce upon sound basis for future expansion. Furnace Operation; Quality Control Open-Hearth Men Discuss Their Problems Youngs- town Scrap Charged Cause Much Trouble HREE half-day technical sessions the open- hearth committee the American Institute Mining and Metallurgical Engineers were held the Hotel Ohio, Youngstown, May and More than open-hearth superintendents and others inter- ested open-hearth matters were present. Last week, pages 1317 1320, the general features the meeting were covered, including the discussion the first morn- ing’s session, which was devoted matters relating the construction open-hearth furnaces. the lowing paragraphs are the discussion furnace opera- tion, which formed the topic for the afternoon session May and quality control producing steel, which was discussed the morning May There were set papers any the Many men participated each topic. Consideration Furnace Operating Results UTOMOBILE scrap and some machinery scrap con- tains ingredients which may run right through the bottom the furnace within two three days, character that cuts through the pan. This seems the general consensus opinion this type scrap, which reaching the mills great quantities. Scrap foremen and others handling scrap are given bonuses, sevéral plants, for all the brass and lead, nickel, aluminum, babbitt, zinc and other impurities which they separate out from the scrap. result this practice, which gives the foremen much $60 $75 extra month, Henry Young reports very little trouble from dirty scrap Allegheny Steel Effect Impurities Scrap Chromium scrap results slag which hard shape up, according Hughes, Sharon Steel Hoop Co. Nickel does not seem give trouble, but brass, aluminum and lead do. Brass, babbitt and other impurities have been giving trouble the Wisconsin Steel Co. furnace practice, but Mr. Ramsey said that detriment the quality the product had been observed. Nickel about 0.1 per cent was reported Simmons, research manager Pittsburgh Steel Co., result heavy coating scale, especially strip steel. Tin oxidizes the bath. The foreman the Pilger mill refuses accept heat this character. will not pierce and, one instance, such heat could not rolled the 28-in. mill. The the tin inclusions was such raise 0.14 per cent carbon heat from the normal 48,000 52,000 Ib. the square inch 68,000 Galvanized sheets are charged top the upper layer scrap the Edgewater Steel Co., for the pur- pose allowing the zinc burn off. This material has been known run through the bottom the fur- nace and pile below the tap hole. Babbitt runs through the furnace similar way, said Frank McKune, open-hearth superintendent Steel Co. Can- ada. regular practice that plant prepare al} the scrap before put into the furnace. much 500 babbitt has been gleaned from drag ten cars scrap. This material includes about per cent lead and per cent antimony. How Lead Acts Bath Steel Lead goes once the bottom furnace be- cause its greater specific gravity, and lead oxide does the same, according Tranter. Brown fumes coming off the furnace bottom are indication that lead present there. brasses the scrap contain some per cent lead. When this trouble encountered becomes necessary wash about in. off the bottom the furnace and remake the bottom with fresh magnesite. Nickel, chromium and aluminum cause little this trouble, but have their effects the quality the steel. Any lead above 0.008 per cent the bath will tend cause trouble, making small checks show bars, and lot s