Routing in Manufacturing

Routing Manufacturing Production Process Sequence of Steps Product Completion
Routing refers to the production method used to determine the sequence of manufacturing steps necessary to complete a product. The routing process is influenced by the type of product and its associated production process.
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Definition of Routing

Routing in manufacturing is the method of determining the sequence of operations or steps required to produce a product. It involves specifying the route or path that a product follows through various manufacturing processes and workstations from the beginning to the end of production. Routing helps ensure that each step is followed correctly and efficiently, optimizing production times and costs.

Examples of Routing

Example 1: Automobile Manufacturing

In an automobile manufacturing plant, routing may involve the following sequence:

  1. Casting and molding of engine parts.
  2. Machining of engine components.
  3. Engine assembly.
  4. Body fabrication.
  5. Painting.
  6. Final assembly and quality inspection.

Example 2: Electronics Manufacturing

For an electronics assembly plant, routing might include:

  1. Component procurement and inspection.
  2. Surface mount technology (SMT) circuit board assembly.
  3. In-circuit testing.
  4. Soldering and bonding.
  5. Final assembly of the product.
  6. Functional testing and packaging.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the importance of routing in manufacturing?

Routing is critical in manufacturing as it ensures the production process runs smoothly and efficiently. It helps in minimizing production time, reducing manufacturing costs, and ensuring that products meet quality standards.

How is routing different from scheduling?

Routing determines the sequence of operations, whereas scheduling allocates time frames and resources to those operations. Both are vital for efficient manufacturing, but routing focuses on the “what steps” and scheduling focuses on the “when and who.”

Can routing be automated?

Yes, routing can be automated using Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems and Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES) which streamline and optimize production processes based on real-time data and predefined rules.

What is the role of a Routing Sheet?

A routing sheet is a document that outlines the sequence of operations for manufacturing a product. It provides detailed instructions and parameters for each step, ensuring consistency and quality in production.

How does routing impact lead time?

Proper routing helps in reducing lead time by ensuring that each step in the production process is completed in the most efficient order. This minimizes delays and reduces the overall time from start to finish.

  • Bill of Materials (BOM): A comprehensive list of materials, components, and assemblies required to manufacture a product.
  • Work-in-Progress (WIP): Materials and components that have been partly processed but not yet been fully completed in the manufacturing cycle.
  • Just-In-Time (JIT): A production strategy that strives to improve business return on investment by reducing in-process inventory and associated carrying costs.
  • Capacity Planning: The process of determining the production capacity needed by an organization to meet changing demands for its products.
  • Quality Control (QC): A series of processes through which product quality is maintained or improved.

Online References

Suggested Books for Further Studies

  • “Manufacturing Planning and Control for Supply Chain Management” by F. Robert Jacobs, William L. Berry, D. Clay Whybark, Thomas E. Vollmann
  • “Manufacturing Processes for Design Professionals” by Rob Thompson
  • “Operations Management: Processes and Supply Chains” by Lee J. Krajewski

Fundamentals of Routing: Manufacturing Basics Quiz

### What does routing in manufacturing determine? - [x] The sequence of operations or steps to produce a product. - [ ] The amount of materials needed. - [ ] The cost of production. - [ ] The quality control measures. > **Explanation:** Routing determines the specific series of operations or steps required to complete the manufacturing of a product. ### Which of the following best describes the function of a routing sheet? - [x] A document outlining the sequence of operations for manufacturing. - [ ] A list of materials needed for production. - [ ] A schedule of when products need to be made. - [ ] A quality control checklist. > **Explanation:** A routing sheet details the specific sequence of operations that must be followed in the production process, ensuring consistency. ### Why is routing essential in manufacturing? - [ ] It increases the cost of production. - [ ] It adds more steps to the manufacturing process. - [x] It ensures efficient production and reduces lead time. - [ ] It eliminates the need for scheduling. > **Explanation:** Routing is crucial as it ensures that every step in the production process is executed efficiently, thereby optimizing production and minimizing lead time. ### What is a primary difference between routing and scheduling? - [ ] Routing focuses on "when" and "who," while scheduling focuses on "what steps." - [x] Routing determines the sequence of steps, while scheduling allocates time and resources. - [ ] Routing is unrelated to the manufacturing process. - [ ] Scheduling determines the materials needed for production. > **Explanation:** Routing determines the sequence of necessary steps, whereas scheduling allocates the timing and resources for those steps. ### Can routing be integrated into automated systems? - [x] Yes, routing can be automated using ERP and MES systems. - [ ] No, routing must be done manually. - [ ] Only certain aspects of routing can be automated. - [ ] Automation of routing is not possible with current technology. > **Explanation:** Advances in ERP and MES systems allow for the automation of routing, optimizing manufacturing processes. ### What is one result of improper routing in manufacturing? - [x] Increased lead time and inefficiencies. - [ ] Zero defects in the product. - [ ] Reduced production capacity. - [ ] Perfect synchronization with market demand. > **Explanation:** Improper routing can lead to increased lead times, longer production cycles, and overall inefficiencies in manufacturing processes. ### Who benefits directly from well-planned routing? - [x] Both manufacturers and customers. - [ ] Only the manufacturers. - [ ] Only the customers. - [ ] Neither manufacturers nor customers. > **Explanation:** Well-planned routing ensures efficiency and quality, benefiting both the manufacturers (through reduced costs and lead time) and customers (through better quality and timely delivery). ### What is the first step in creating a routing plan? - [ ] Quality inspection of materials. - [x] Determining the sequence of manufacturing steps. - [ ] Final product assembly. - [ ] Procuring materials. > **Explanation:** The first step in routing is to outline the specific sequence of manufacturing steps required to complete the product. ### Which document would you consult to understand the detailed steps required to produce a product? - [x] Routing sheet - [ ] Bill of Materials - [ ] Quality control checklist - [ ] Production schedule > **Explanation:** A routing sheet outlines the precise steps and sequence needed to manufacture a product. ### In lean manufacturing, why is routing crucial? - [ ] It increases waste and inefficiencies. - [ ] It adds extra layers to the manufacturing process. - [x] It minimizes waste and optimizes production flow. - [ ] It is not relevant in lean manufacturing. > **Explanation:** In lean manufacturing, routing is vital as it helps to streamline production, minimizing waste and ensuring an optimal flow of operations.

Thank you for exploring the intricacies of routing in manufacturing. Dive deeper into the subject with our quizzes and recommended resources for an in-depth understanding.

Wednesday, August 7, 2024
Routing Number (RTN)
Router
Consumable Materials January 1, 1
Continuous Production January 1, 1
Direct Materials Inventory January 1, 1
Indirect Production January 1, 1
Intermediate Goods January 1, 1
Job Card (Job Ticket) January 1, 1
Just-in-Time (JIT) January 1, 1
Main Product January 1, 1
Raw Material January 1, 1
Raw Materials January 1, 1

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