SMED

What is SMED?

SMED stands for Single Minute Exchange of Dies,. It is one of the methods of lean manufacturing, aiming to reduce the required setup and adjustment time of machines from several hours to a few minutes. This method helps prevent waste and accelerates production.

What is the Purpose of SMED?

The SMED method is most commonly used in mass and repetitive production, where only a limited quantity of products is manufactured, involving the exchange, reconfiguration, and adjustment of production machinery. It typically has two main objectives:

1. Ensuring swift transitions from producing one type of product to another, enabling smaller batch production. Smaller batch production leads to reduced work-in-progress, shorter production times, and increased flexibility.
2. Reclaiming the capacity of a resource that is partially lost during lengthy retooling.

How is SMED Applied in Practice?

The entire process can be described in four steps.

The first step involves a thorough analysis of the exchange and setup process (e.g., recording all required tasks and their time durations). This helps identify shortcomings within the process. Next, a solution design is formulated (e.g., machinery repositioning, technology changes). Subsequently, selected improvement measures are implemented and later standardized through an existing work instruction for tool change and machine setup. Results are achieved through technology alterations, machine setup changes, modifications to work aids, technical adjustments to machinery, or alterations in work organization.

What Are the Positive Impacts of the SMED Method?

• Reduction of time waste and machine capacity utilization
• Increased operational flexibility
• Accelerated response to demand changes
• Reduced inventory volume due to improved response time

Recommended training:

Training name	Training duration	Venue	Price	The nearest date
LEAN Management	2 days (8:00 - 14:00)	Online	590,00 € 708,00 € VAT included	10.07.2024 - 11.07.2024 + 2