Tips: Dynamic speed control can increase equipment efficiency, as it enables a machine to lower its speed when an external stoppage occurs, running for a longer period of time before it stops. Dynamic speed control also increases line production throughput. When coupled with a buffer system (equipment that balances production output between work centers), it will be able to divide the line in two, creating a cushion between them, permitting the equipment to run longer, with less stoppages.
Recommendations: The two speakers described a buffer requirement case study in which the line's initial conditions included a running speed of 240 bpm, with throughput at 168 bpm. Downtime was unknown. After observing the line, the study recommended adding buffer equipment before a labeler that could accommodate 1,000 bottles, and operate at a speed of 210 bpm. The study projected an increase of line throughput to 200 bpm, with a 20% increase in efficiency. The implementation cost of $100,000 was projected to deliver a six-month payback.
--By Jim Butschli, Editor
Recommendations: The two speakers described a buffer requirement case study in which the line's initial conditions included a running speed of 240 bpm, with throughput at 168 bpm. Downtime was unknown. After observing the line, the study recommended adding buffer equipment before a labeler that could accommodate 1,000 bottles, and operate at a speed of 210 bpm. The study projected an increase of line throughput to 200 bpm, with a 20% increase in efficiency. The implementation cost of $100,000 was projected to deliver a six-month payback.
--By Jim Butschli, Editor
