Cellular Flow Manufacturing

Cellular flow manufacturing is simple methods that can help your operation produce a variety of products with little waste. Simplicity underlies every aspect of the technique, from material handling to scheduling and supervision.

In a cellular layout, equipment and workstations related to a product or a narrow range of similar products are arranged in a “cell” that supports smooth processing of materials and components, with minimal transport or delay. Our consultants can help your team identify opportunities for cells, then assist with implementation.

Assembly, in the same area, of all equipment needed to manufacture a product contrasts with traditional “batch-and-queue” setups, in which each type of equipment has its own space. Batch-and-queue manufacturing requires products first to be transported to equipment stations for every process step, and then queued for batch processing. Transport and batching delays are common. In cellular manufacturing, products move smoothly from one piece of equipment to the next along one production line, without delays for transport and batching. The result is much faster throughput and less waste.

Since machine operators work close to one another, communication improves. And proximity builds quality and coordination by encouraging teamwork and a shared sense of mission.

Benefits

• Maximize value added by each worker
• Minimize part movement and inventory
• Reduce lead times, cycle times, and waiting times
• Increase productivity and quality performance
• Free up floor space
• Improve the efficiency of cross-training workers
• Increase communication
• Increase flexibility