Layouts should be continuously improved as the business grows or adapts to customer needs. A study of the plant layout seeks the optimal location for all of the production resources.
Reasons for Layout Design/Redesign
1. Location Change - Location has become inadequate or antiquated. Expansion is impossible. New building construction can allow for an ideal layout because building functionality is the principle focus of the building design.
2. Purchasing New Equipment - New equipment is generally placed in free space available, but is not usually the most efficient spot. Finding the most efficient location for the new equipment can become a critical issue in making a growing system perform as intended.
3. Expansion - Floor space is fully utilized, but there is room for expansion. Existing layout and expansion layout need to be integrated as one working system.
4. Material Flow Problems - Products have high transport times and include numerous material handling steps. Equipment should be laid out to promote efficient flow and minimize material handling.
5. High Work In Process (WIP) - WIP parts are piling up at machines. Machine layout needs to be evaluated to reduce excessive WIP for just in time manufacturing.
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