Application of group tools in production of printed and laminated cardboard packaging for total in-process time reduction

Abstract

One of the main issues in production is the share of total in-process time of a product. Over 85% of in-process time is throughput time and machine setup time. Operating tools in setup and throughput time are idle. There are no product value added operations in this period. Group technology brings solution in reduction of setup times and throughput times; it also deals with improvement of material handling operations and storage management, as well as increase in finished goods. Production is arranged in grouptype layout, in such a manner that it corresponds to as much product groups as possible. Group technology saves time and effort in throughput setup by doing operations for a group of similar parts instead for each part individually. This paper analyses processes in which it is possible for group of parts to be treated on some operations at the same time. It is noted that the more flexibility in product and production management is achieved, setup, throughput and production time are reduced and the level of plan execution is higher, by making group tools and managing groups of product at the same time instead of individual group or product. © 2014 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Ltd.