Study of the Efficiency of Production Cells in an Industry in the Metallurgical Segment

Abstract

The work is inserted in the scenario of competitiveness of the metallurgical industry, which is constantly
looking for ways to increase its productivity and, in this way, improve its positioning in the market.
Thus, this work aims to evaluate the efficiency of the production cells of an industry in the metallurgical
sector based on the methods and tools of Lean Manufacturing. For this, the main wastes present in the
production process were identified and, based on the findings, improvements were proposed to increase
productivity. The work is based on bibliographical research and case study with a qualitative approach
and exploratory objective. For data collection, work sampling, movement studies and direct observations
on the gemba were carried out, with the aid of observation sheets. Through the case study, were
evidenced as sources of waste in the production process, mainly, the absence of visual production
procedures; low level of organization and identification of components and tools; and completion of the
setup process completely internally, that is, with the equipment out of order. In this way, opportunities
were identified in the implementation of tools related to Standardized Work, the 5S System and SMED
Principles. The work evaluates and recommends that the implementation of improvements should be
carried out with the support of Kaizen Events, sustaining activities in an action plan, and ensuring the
awareness and involvement of all employees. With the adoption of such measures, improvements related
mostly to the performance and availability of the industry which is focus of the case study are expected