It uses cellular layout, which is a type of
manufacturing process where machines are grouped by function, and related
processes are consolidated in the same area.
This results in increased efficiency and
flexibility, as machines can be moved and combined in different ways depending
on the production process.
Group Technology (GT) as
a production system uses a computer database to determine which machines and
employees should be grouped together to maximize efficiency.
Group technology can be
used to develop a hybrid between pure process layout and pure flow line
(product) layout.
This technique is very
useful for companies that produce variety of parts in small batches to enable
them to take advantage and economics of flow line layout.
The application of group
technology involves two basic steps; first step is to determine component
families or groups. The second step in applying group technology is to arrange
the plants equipment used to process a particular family of components.
This represents small plants
within the plants. The group technology reduces production-planning time for
jobs. It reduces the set-up time.
The cell layout works by
allowing a group of machines and employees to perform a single operation, or a
series of related operations, on a single part or product.
This helps to reduce
setup times, streamline production, and increase production speed. Each of the
pure/basic layout types has its own merits and demerits.
In practice, layouts are
a mix of the basic types combined for maximum benefit of the given situation at
hand. The most common form of combination layout is Group technology/ Cellular
layout
1.
Reduced Production Costs
Group
technology allows for the efficient use of resources, such as machines and
personnel. This reduces production costs, as fewer machines and fewer personnel
are needed.
2.
Faster Production Times
By grouping similar parts together, it is
possible to reduce production times, as machines do not need to be switched
over between different tasks.
3.
Increased Product Quality
By grouping similar parts together, it is
possible to reduce the chance of errors occurring during production, as
machines do not need to be adjusted to different tasks. This leads to a higher
quality product.
4.
Simplified Maintenance
Grouping parts together makes it easier to
maintain machines, as fewer adjustments need to be made.
5.
Improved Employee Morale
Employees tend to prefer working on similar
tasks and in an organized fashion. Group technology helps to create a more
organized work environment, which can improve employee morale.
Group technology/ cellular layout has the
following disadvantages
1.
High initial investment
Group technology/cellular
layout involves significant capital investment in machines, tools, and related
infrastructure.
2.
High operational cost
This type of
manufacturing layout requires a large workforce to operate and maintain the
machines and tools. This increases the operational cost.
3.
Lack of flexibility
The setup of this type of manufacturing layout
is based on specific and limited production processes. It may not be suitable
for the production of customized products with different specifications.
4.
Lack of scalability
This type of layout is not suitable for
producing large quantities of products. If demand increases, it is difficult to
scale up the production process.
5.
Low efficiency
The machines and tools
used in this type of manufacturing layout are designed for specific processes.
They may not be suitable for different operations. This reduces the efficiency
of the production process.
