Flow Line Systems

Flow Line Systems

Flow Line Systems - Flow line systems are simply conventional machine tools laid out in the main operation sequence. In other words machine tools are laid or arranged in the sequence in which a given product will be operated upon.

It implies that various operations on a product (raw material) are performed in a definite sequence and the machine tools are laid strictly in the same sequence.

The raw material will be first processed on lathes then on drill milling machines again on drilling machine and lastly on grinder. The raw materials will be converted into finished goods as they pass from lathe to grinder. The lathes, drill milling machines etc have been arranged in the same sequence in which the raw material is to be operated upon for its conversion into finished product.

The flow line system has the following advantages:

(1) Less in process inventory.

(2) Better coordination and simple production planning and control.

(3) Automatic material handling. Lesser material handling movements, times and costs.

(4) Smooth and continuous flow of work.

The flow line system has the following disadvantages:

(1) A change in product (involves major changes in produce layout.

(2) Rate of working depends upon the output rate of the slowest machine. This involves excessive idle time for other (fast shut operating) machines if the production line is not adequately balanced by providing slow working machines more than one

(3) if one machine in the line fails it may lead to shut down of the complete production line. This necessitates keeping a few stand by machines. This increases capital investments.

(4) It is difficult to increase production beyond the capacities of the production lines.

Applications

For the small batch production of medium components flow line system is generally one of the most economical systems.