SMED fast set-up saves time and money
Different batch sizes and different products require quick changeovers. In many cases, hidden potential lies in the flexibility of the production systems and the design of the set-up process. Single Minute Exchange of Die, abbreviated SMED, stands for the reduction of set-up times and the optimization of the manufacturing process. With the SMED process, we consider your internal and external set-up processes separately. With the SMED process, we consider your internal and external set-up processes separately.
SMED optimizes set-up processes
In doing so, we consider technical and organizational improvement opportunities. After a detailed analysis of the current situation, we check which of your internal set-up processes can be shifted to external preparatory measures. The aim is to reduce internal set-up as much as possible. In a further phase, the time of each individual set-up step is reduced. However, the conventional SMED method quickly reaches its limits when it comes to complex processes.
SMED tailored
To be able to optimize even very demanding processes with the advantages of SMED, our OpEx consultants have supplemented the SMED approach. In combination with a special MS Project solution developed by TARGUS for planning, control and monitoring, we can take an individual, needs-oriented approach. This expansion allows us to use the SMED methodology, combined with our optimal schedule and resource management, even for very complex processes.
Typical results of SMED
- Reduction of set-up times by up to 50%
- Capacity increase
- Cost reduction
- Speed / Time to Market
- Reduction of inventory quantity
- Improved production flow
SMED in practice
Set-up processes are also a cost driver in foundry operations. Therefore, our task was to reduce costs by optimizing changeover times. The precise analysis and breakdown of the entire process into individual steps showed, especially in the die casting sector, a strong mixing of internal and external activities.
With the SMED concept further developed by TARGUS, we were able to achieve a significant reduction in time by replanning the individual steps. Further time savings as well as the reduction of start-up costs through the construction and consistent maintenance of shadow boards, a standardized toolbox and the definition of setting parameters. Overall, set-up times have been reduced by up to 50% with SMED.