Packaging Line Efficiency Improvements with the Implementation of a Centralized Packaging Line Control System

Abstract

Efficiency is a process measurement of the ability of generating a required output with the minimum amount of resources. A high efficiency is crucial for a packaging line as it is an important aspect of cost control that results in an improved production and utilization of available resources. Poor design and operation of packaging lines result in low efficiency and therefore great cost and loss of profitability. Packaging Line 7 is used to label, stack, bundle, case, and palletize filled cans. The line provides packaging of 5oz. and 7oz. sizes in “Bundled” formats which make out 5 different production scenarios. Packaging Line 7 has been affected by low efficiencies, which were measured at an average of 56% for the 5 Production Scenarios. This project has been developed under the Lean Six Sigma principles and using DMAIC five-step approach, in order to identify opportunities to improve the efficiency of Packaging Line 7. Key Terms - DMAIC, Efficiency, Lean Six Sigma, Packaging Line 7.