An application of Value Stream Mapping to reduce lead time and WIP in a make-to-order manufacturing line

Abstract

Significant growth in the sales is expected in the coming years for the product family that is the focus of this research. In order to meet the takt time for the future demand, improvement on the current processes and expansion are needed. In this work, Value Stream Mapping was implemented to identify the bottleneck processes: fit up (oval), full welding, and pressure testing. Assembly cell concept, workload balancing and FIFO lanes were proposed countermeasures or improvements to address the capacity shortfall. A decrease of 27% in manufacturing lead time was projected if these improvements were made. In addition, the capacity analysis suggests that an expansion is required in full welding and heat treatment furnace.