Material flow optimization in the SMT factory

What this white paper covers

This white paper covers the rising demands on synchronized material management processes in electronics production environments – a topic that has been neglected in many factories but is becoming increasingly important.

Weaknesses and interruptions in the flow of materials are the most frequent causes of downtime in electronics manufacturing today.

And let’s not forget: the pressure of customers and markets to become ever more flexible with shrinking lot sizes and more frequent product changeovers and tougher delivery deadlines means that material management is becoming more important every day.

This white paper will help executives, SMT production managers and material logistics specialists to identify weak spots in their material flow and make improvements with the help of modern information technology.

Analyzing the material flow, two fundamental aspects can be distinguished: First, the “where”, i.e. the exact inventory data: Which reel with which material is located where? Second, the “where to”, i.e. the equally precise demand data: Which material is needed in what quantity where and when?

The software solution used must be able to answer these fundamental questions quickly and reliably at all times. Then and only then is optimization of the material flow possible and successful. Both basic functions are mapped in modern programs such as Factory Material Manager and WORKS Logistics from ASMPT.

Modern material management is not just about tracking inventory but it must support all material-related processes such as receiving, warehousing, stock issues and returns, production planning, and setup processes.

It must also manage the replenishment of material to the production lines and synchronize the material flows. The best possible results are achieved if users receive all relevant information about the flows of materials at their workstations – quickly, reliably, and in line with their respective duties and tasks.

To put it bluntly, an ERP system will not give you 100% visibility of all material at every location in your factory, but that is what is needed, particularly for the shop floor processes and at the workstations in SMT production and related areas.