Optimizing Line Speed

In the April 2008 Processing column, we discussed optimizing process lines by appropriate use of surge, as well as some other approaches. Continuing on that general theme, let’s consider optimum line speed and rework, inspired by some recent consulting experiences.

When Is a Continuous Process Not Continuous?
One measure of process performance is mean time between failure (MTBF) computed by taking the total time available for a run and dividing by the number of process interruptions. To be fair, a…