+8% OEE thanks to digital production control software: Eugen Wexler relies on authentig

The demands on plastics processing in the automotive industry are constantly rising: the highest quality standards, increasing cost pressures, and at the same time the need to respond flexibly and quickly to deviations.

Eugen Wexler GmbH, one of the largest medium-sized automotive suppliers in Germany, has taken on precisely these challenges – and with ENGEL MES authentig, a production control software, taken a decisive step toward digitized, transparent production.

Eugen Wexler GmbH, headquartered in Lauf an der Pegnitz, is a third-generation, owner-managed family business. With approximately 1,500 employees, revenue of 150 million euros, and production sites in Europe and North America, the company develops and manufactures high-quality plastic components for interiors and exteriors – ranging from pillar trim and trunk liners to technical exterior assemblies.

The high degree of automation, complex processes such as 1K and 2K injection molding, laminating, fabric overmolding, painting, and foaming, as well as the requirement for one-piece-flow production, demand stable, transparent process management.

Before the introduction of the production control software authentig, this was precisely the central challenge:

• Production and process data were documented manually

• Analyses were performed with a time lag using Excel

• Key performance indicators were not available to management until the end of the month

• Deviations could only be addressed reactively, not proactively

“We could really only react – but not act in real time,” says Jürgen Klein of Eugen Wexler GmbH, describing the initial situation.

With the introduction of the ENGEL MES authentig software, production control and order management processes at Eugen Wexler were thoroughly digitized. The goal was to create a consistent, transparent, and up-to-date database for all stakeholders, from the shop floor to management.

At the core of the software solution is the online acquisition of machine and process data in real time. This enables immediate target vs. actual comparisons and the instant detection of deviations.

Another key feature is real-time production monitoring: Large screens in the production area display key performance indicators, cycle time deviations, and malfunctions directly at the point of occurrence. Employees can immediately see when processes deviate from the target and take corrective action without delay.

Other key features of the authentig MES software include:

• Digital production orders with live progress display

• A valid, approved data set for stable processes

• Integration of ERP data as the basis for setup and part records

• Planning module, KPI reporting, and KPI analysis tools

• Reduction of paper-based documentation to a minimum

The effects of implementing authentig’s production control software became apparent very quickly at Eugen Wexler, both operationally and strategically.

• Significantly reduced cycle time deviations

• Faster response to disruptions

• Greater process stability through clear data sets

• Increased employee engagement through transparent metrics

The development of OEE in the large-machine sector is particularly impressive: within just two months, OEE increased from 81.3% to 88%.

Clear evidence of how much real-time transparency and digital, software-based production control can improve efficiency.

For Eugen Wexler, authentig is more than just an MES system. It is a strategic tool for securing competitiveness.

Key benefits for securing competitiveness:

• Greater cost-effectiveness

• Comparability across locations

• Scalability for international plants

• A solid foundation for further digitalization steps