Batch production

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Batch production is used to produce or process any product in groups that are called batches, as opposed to a continuous production process, or a one-time production. An example of batch production can be found in a bakery. The products, for example bread, are made in batches of however many will fit in the baker's oven at a time. When that batch is made, the baker will start the process again with a new batch. Batch production techniques are used in the manufacture of specialty chemicals such as active pharmaceutical ingredients, inks, paints and adhesives.

In the manufacture of inks and paints, a technique called a color-run is used. A color-run is where one manufactures the lightest color first, such as light yellow followed by the next increasingly darker color such as orange, then red and so on until reaching black and then they start over again. This minimizes the cleanup and reconfiguring of the machinery between each batch. White (by which is meant opaque paint, not transparent ink) is the only color that cannot be used in a color run due to the fact that a small amount of white pigment can adversely affect the medium colors.

There are inefficiencies associated with batch production. The production equipment must be stopped, re-configured, and its output tested before the next batch can be produced.

Time between batches is known as 'Down Time' where the factory would make seasonal items or consumables such as toasters where no one can predict the quantity needed.

There are several advantages of batch production; it can reduce initial capital outlay because a single production line can be used to produce several products. As shown in the example, batch production can be useful for small businesses who cannot afford to run continuous production lines. Also, companies can use batch production as a trial run. If a retailer buys a batch of a product and people do not buy them then the producer can cease production without having to sustain huge losses. Other types of production include: assembly line, job production, continuous, cell, and project.