Routing in Manufacturing

Routing refers to the production method used to determine the sequence of manufacturing steps necessary to complete a product. The routing process is influenced by the type of product and its associated production process.
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Definition of Routing

Routing in manufacturing is the method of determining the sequence of operations or steps required to produce a product. It involves specifying the route or path that a product follows through various manufacturing processes and workstations from the beginning to the end of production. Routing helps ensure that each step is followed correctly and efficiently, optimizing production times and costs.

Examples of Routing

Example 1: Automobile Manufacturing

In an automobile manufacturing plant, routing may involve the following sequence:

  1. Casting and molding of engine parts.
  2. Machining of engine components.
  3. Engine assembly.
  4. Body fabrication.
  5. Painting.
  6. Final assembly and quality inspection.

Example 2: Electronics Manufacturing

For an electronics assembly plant, routing might include:

  1. Component procurement and inspection.
  2. Surface mount technology (SMT) circuit board assembly.
  3. In-circuit testing.
  4. Soldering and bonding.
  5. Final assembly of the product.
  6. Functional testing and packaging.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the importance of routing in manufacturing?

Routing is critical in manufacturing as it ensures the production process runs smoothly and efficiently. It helps in minimizing production time, reducing manufacturing costs, and ensuring that products meet quality standards.

How is routing different from scheduling?

Routing determines the sequence of operations, whereas scheduling allocates time frames and resources to those operations. Both are vital for efficient manufacturing, but routing focuses on the “what steps” and scheduling focuses on the “when and who.”

Can routing be automated?

Yes, routing can be automated using Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems and Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES) which streamline and optimize production processes based on real-time data and predefined rules.

What is the role of a Routing Sheet?

A routing sheet is a document that outlines the sequence of operations for manufacturing a product. It provides detailed instructions and parameters for each step, ensuring consistency and quality in production.

How does routing impact lead time?

Proper routing helps in reducing lead time by ensuring that each step in the production process is completed in the most efficient order. This minimizes delays and reduces the overall time from start to finish.

  • Bill of Materials (BOM): A comprehensive list of materials, components, and assemblies required to manufacture a product.
  • Work-in-Progress (WIP): Materials and components that have been partly processed but not yet been fully completed in the manufacturing cycle.
  • Just-In-Time (JIT): A production strategy that strives to improve business return on investment by reducing in-process inventory and associated carrying costs.
  • Capacity Planning: The process of determining the production capacity needed by an organization to meet changing demands for its products.
  • Quality Control (QC): A series of processes through which product quality is maintained or improved.

Online References

Suggested Books for Further Studies

  • “Manufacturing Planning and Control for Supply Chain Management” by F. Robert Jacobs, William L. Berry, D. Clay Whybark, Thomas E. Vollmann
  • “Manufacturing Processes for Design Professionals” by Rob Thompson
  • “Operations Management: Processes and Supply Chains” by Lee J. Krajewski

Fundamentals of Routing: Manufacturing Basics Quiz

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Routing Number (RTN)
Router