ABSTRACT
The term “Group Technology” was introduced by Professor Mitrofanov of Leningrad University as the title for his research into the relationship between component shape and processing methods. [1] Among his findings was the fact that it is possible to sequence operations on lathes so that the same or similar setups can be used for operations on several different parts, one after the other, giving major savings in set-up time. By adding other machine types to the lathes, Groups were formed which could complete “families” of parts. It has since been found that if “Production Flow Analysis” (PFA) is used to plan the groups, GT
can be substituted with advantage for Process organisation, in any case where automated Continuous Line Flow (CLF) is not appropriate. [2]
Group Technology can be defined today as: “A method of organisation for Manufacturing, in which the machine tools and other processing facilities are totally divided into Groups which complete all the parts or assemblies they make, through the major processing stage at which they operate, without backflow between groups at following stages, and without cross-flow between Groups at the same stage. The Group machines are laid out together in their own special area, and are manned by their own team of people.”
