ABSTRACT
Cellular manufacturing, through the application of group technology, has become increasingly popular with many advocates of the system describing the advantages that can be achieved. These include reductions in: material handling, tooling costs, set-up time, expediting, work-in-process, part make span, and improvements in human relations and operator expertise. However, there are associated disadvantages which are increased capital investment and lower machine utilisation. Before cellular manufacturing system can be introduced the design, operation and control of the complete manufacturing system needs to be examined closely. Besides the physical reorganisation of the machines and equipment into cells, where one family of products or parts can be manufactured, it is also necessary to introduce an effective production planning and control system which can operate within the manufacturing constraints and capacities.
