Process improvements in a material handling activity by applying lean production techniques

Abstract

This Master Thesis is about one of the most nowadays topics: Optimization in processes and methods applying the Lean philosophy. With the pursuit of improvements in logistics and resources companies’ efficiency, Lean Manufacturing is acquiring an important role in the current business society. The main objectives of this document are the study, proposal, achievement and analysis of improvements about packaging processes in Talleres Bellvitge, the place where the entire project has been done. Getting these improvements, using the initial resouces, it is obtained some benefits, adding more production and easiness to work in general. Also there is an improvement in terms of quality. Lean Manufacturing is focused on reduction of the seven wastes in order to improve overall customer value, but there are varying perspectives on how this is best achieved. By eliminating waste, improving quality and production time and costs are reduced. To make the project, gather data tools have been used. Applying these tools and formats, an initial study has been made and then proposal improvements. After analyze the results, it is possible to show positive conclusion using Lean Manufacturing as an optimization method, because currently, there is more space, less time used and better quality in the final product.