2.2 Cell Formation & Layout Design for GT Layout
According to Fraizer and Spriggs (1996), a GT layout is
most appropriate for batch processing because parts are produced in small to medium batches and there is relative
stability in the product mix. The GT cell creates a small,
cost-effective assembly line within the production operation,
but provides much more flexibility than traditional assembly
lines. Because each cell is dedicated to producing a group or
family of similar parts, switching between similar parts in
the family is quick and easy. Only minimal setup time is required, compared with a changeover on an assembly line or
with a traditional batch processing or job shop.
2.2.1 Cell Formation
Following steps were pursued during the cell formation
process:
1. Form the initial part-machine matrix that belongs
to the manufacturing system.
2. Follow the steps of ROC method, through the use
of a spreadsheet to determine the final partmachine matrix.
3. Make some adjustments heuristically in order to
reduce the number of exceptional elements in
part-machine matrix by means of considering alternative machines.
When considering the size of the part-machine matrix
(54x53) in this study, ROC method seemed to be a viable
alternative compared to other methods that might give better