This thesis was made for ABB Oy Drives in Helsinki specifically the Galactica
production line of low power AC drives.
The main objective of this research was to reduce the lead time from five
days to 24 hours by optimizing the material flow from the warehouse to
the factory, reducing inventory within the factory and by ensuring that materials
are delivered just in time for production. The focus here was on the
mechanical and electrical parts of the ACS 550 & 800 drives with a view
to running a pilot.
The aim was waste reduction in the complete production process through
planning the most effective layout and work station that would enhance
smooth flow of materials while not compromising employee safety.
The theoretical part of this study focuses on materials handling from the
warehouse to the factory and within the factory. The work also introduces
inventory management principles, the Just in time philosophy, as well as
lean manufacturing.
Meetings were held with representatives of the commissioning company.
The Materials and Logistics Management team played a key role here. An
analysis of the current state of operations was carried out and a few problems
were uncovered. At the end of this thesis new models were proposed
and these will be tested at a convenient time for the commissioning organization.