SUMMARY
JIT
is a philosophy of getting the right material, to the right place, and at the
right time. This will produce outstanding results in small, medium-sized, and
large industries. Its main purpose is to reduce waste at all levels and improve
manufac-turing efficiency. The following points must be considered when
implementing JIT principles:
Utilize
group technology effectively so that the manufacturing facilities and machines
are used most efficiently.
Design
products so that they are easy to manufacture and assemble; make manufacturing
operations simple, yet flexible.
Eliminate
or greatly reduce setup time.
Strive
for zero inventory in all operations, money tied up in inventory cannot be used
until the product is sold.
Use
machines and equipment effectively, institute a preventative maintenance
program to avoid costly breakdowns and production delays.
Control
quality at the source (suppliers) and on the machines (operators).
Emphasize
product performance.
Good
monitoring and process control processes will ensure quality products and avoid
costly rework, scrap, and warranty costs.
Stress
never-ending improvement in processes and the product.
Encourage
management to be actively involved in the entire JIT philosophy.
Train
people on quality importance and heighten their sense of quality awareness.
Encourage and allow worker involvement.
Assure
employment security for workers.
Establish
long-term relationships with suppliers and assist them in producing and
supplying quality products.
Strive
for continuous improvement not only to meet growing expectations, but also to
exceed them.
For more information on
JUST-IN-TIME MANUFACTURING
see the Websites:
www.cinmach.com www.glmachinetools.com
www.SME.org
Copyright © Industrial Press, Inc.