Lead-time halved in heat exchanger production
Background
A central heating boiler manufacturer needed increased manufacturing efficiency to improve competitive position.
Objectives
- to optimise layout of factory
- to reduce manufacturing lead time
Approach
- to gain understanding of issues affecting lead time and capacity
- to build simulation of layout and test 'what if?' alternatives
- to assess alternative layouts and rank quantitatively
Benefits
- rapid comparison made of ~30 alternative layouts
- release of £525,000 capital from inventory and WIP
- lead time reduced from 9 to 4 days
- safer, more organised working environment
Conclusion
Simulation identified routes to significant efficiency improvements
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