Improvability analysis of a machining transfer line: an application

Improvability properties of a machining transfer line consisting of eight operations connected by a conveyer material handling system are considered. It is shown that, as is, the line produces at a rate substantially lower than the slowest machine in isolation. Improvability with respect to work-in-process and machine efficiency is analysed and it is shown that the production rate of the system can be increased by almost 70%. >