An assembly line is a production process that breaks a product’s assembly into steps, which are then executed in a predefined sequence. A finished product results from new parts and assemblies being added and modified at workstations.
In an assembly line, semi-finished products are transported from process to process more quickly. As a result, complex digressions and disorganized processes that existed earlier were reduced.
Assembly lines or production lines also allowed workers to acquire process and product-specific expertise, which contributed to the efficiency of the overall manufacturing process. Due to this breakthrough, manufacturers were able to produce complex goods like cars, aircraft, and industrial machines at a faster pace and with greater precision.
Assembly lines have undergone tremendous changes since the turn of the century, but some have stood the test of time and are still being used by manufacturers.
The Classic Assembly Line: This assembly line employs numerous operations, each of which is carried out by a distinct individual, to produce a single finished product. Every product, no matter how huge or intricate, is fundamentally the same.
Automated Assembly Line: One key difference between an automated assembly system and a classic one is that more machines are performing the tasks instead of human beings. This automation cuts down on costs and reduces the room for human errors. Another advantage of this assembly line of production is the ability of automation to handle hazardous materials.
Intermittent Assembly Line: Products manufactured intermittently do not have the same characteristics. Given that the products are without a doubt identical, this approach to assembly-line production permits modification and variation.
Lean Assembly Lines: Lean assembly lines, like automated lines, utilize the classic assembly processes. Here too, the product is assembled piece by piece, but the only difference is that there is a team of assemblers to replace the individual. As a result, it makes assembly line production a lot easier.
Traceability and error-proofing
The assembly line manufacturing industry has been under tremendous pressure because of increased competition, globalization of supply chains and safety concerns, stringent government regulations, and discriminating socially concerned customers.
Manufacturing companies that use traceability are better able to comply with government regulations, protect their brand, and conduct prompt, cost-effective, and focused corrective measures. While foolproof precautionary measures in manufacturing have been around for a long time, the notion of poka-yoke standardized the practice of actively evaluating each part of the roadmap.
The traceability of goods and parts is critical, particularly in assembly-line factories, which are required to maintain the highest quality standards.
It can refer to either downstream or upstream tracing or internal or external tracing. Downstream tracing allows businesses to monitor product-specific copies or lots from the producer to the customer. Upstream tracing permits items to be traced from customer to producer, and even to the supplier.
