In the developing manufacturing industry, there is a constant emphasis on maximising productivity whilst reducing waste for streamlined processes. Lean manufacturing is an ideology that has influenced a spectrum of industries, including laser cutting services. Established in 1981, The Laser Cutting Co. takes pride in the strides we take for efficient productivity and high-quality results with our smart design production.
Today, we delve into the benefits of Lean manufacturing and its fundamental principles that add essential value to industries worldwide.
What is Lean Manufacturing?
Lean manufacturing is the ideology of reducing waste, improving efficiency, and adding customer value through optimised production processes. Originally a Japanese concept developed by the car brand Toyota, it was introduced to the West in the 1990s and revolutionised manufacturing processes.
Waste reduction includes anything not considered valuable by the customer and consistently improving quality, services and products. This was achieved by a set of processes and is still utilised in modern manufacturing production.
Why is Lean Manufacturing Important?
Eliminating wasted resources is critical for industries, particularly in rapid production lines with an emphasis on quality products and services.
- Reduced Waste
- Eliminate Time Loss
- Continuous Improvement
- Reduce Costs
Lean Manufacturing Principles
There are five principles to follow when observing Lean manufacturing:
Customer Value
Value is defined by the customer and a business must consider how much that value is worth. Understanding how to deliver the optimal pricing for the highest profit is crucial for company expenses.
Map the Value Stream
Value stream mapping oversees the overall production process, from raw materials to disposal. This principle requires data and analysis of materials and production costs, areas of waste, and how to improve quality and workflow.
Create Flow
Eliminating interruptions in the productivity line is crucial to decrease wasted time and allow processes to run to their full potential. This principle relies on identifying margins of error to create efficiency on the production line.
Establish a Pull System
A pull system focuses on starting new tasks only once the previous workload has been completed and if there is demand. This is the opposite of the push method where inventory and work are commenced first. The pull method aims to eliminate waste due to inaccurate demand forecasts and relies heavily on communication, flexibility and efficiency.
Reach Perfection
Lean manufacturing relies on continuous assessments and improvements. The idea is to find the perfect production system for value streams, factoring in every individual within the business to be responsible for areas of improvement where it is required.
The 8 Wastes of Lean Manufacturing
- Unnecessary Transportation
- Excess Inventory
- Unnecessary motion of people and equipment, reducing takt time where possible
- Wasted time due to halts in the production process
- Over-production of products
- Over-processing or adding unnecessary additions to a product
- Defects
- Underutilising talent
Lean Manufacturing Tools
Streamlining the production process includes adopting these Lean manufacturing tools:
Heijunka
A term that translates to “levelling”, focusing on reducing production unevenness. Orders are processed based on demand instead of batch production.
5S
Standing for Sort, Set in Order, Shine, Standardise, and Sustain. It’s a methodology that focuses on the production processes to improve safety, quality, productivity, cleanliness and improved schedules.
Kanban
Visual signals to make production more efficient. This can be achieved with cards, electronic signals or workflow boards so the entire team are aware of the production line through all stages.
Jidoka
Meaning “autonomation”, this is a mindset that encourages the detection of issues along the pipeline. When necessary, halting production to investigate errors and how to eliminate them.
Andon
Visual cue system to aid workers where there is an issue, typically done through a flashing light.
Poka-Yoke
This tool focuses on error-proofing implementations. Safeguarding measures so that intelligent systems recognise human error in the production process.
Cycle Time
Understanding how long it takes to complete a process through the production lifecycle.
The Laser Cutting Co.’s Approach to Lean Manufacturing
At The Laser Cutting Co., we utilise state-of-the-art laser cutting technologies to achieve optimal performance and results. Our expert team focuses on quality products, from bespoke designs to rapid laser-cutting services.
Part of our commitment is investing in innovative technology and continuous improvement to offer optimum value for customers. The Laser Cutting Co.’s smart design production emphasises optimising parts for downstream efficiency and product assembly. Our expert team focuses on reducing waste with our CAD machines that generate an average saving of 50% for customers, even with complex designs.
Partner with The Laser Cutting Co. for Your Lean Manufacturing Needs
Introducing Lean manufacturing principles within the workplace is a proven and effective method to improve productivity and value to your business. At The Laser Cutting Co., we align our company values with Lean manufacturing principles to provide the best design services and laser cutting for businesses nationwide.
If your company’s looking to streamline the manufacturing process, improve quality and boost turnaround times, then The Laser Cutting Co. is on hand to deliver exceptional results.
Contact us today to learn more about how our services can optimise your productivity.
