Cycle time optimisation: inspect steps, not only averages

Average cycle time can conceal short delays and occasional interruptions. Breaking down the sequence reveals where time actually changes.

Define timing points

Specify exactly when a cycle starts and ends. Break it into feeding, processing, inspection and discharge. Only consistently defined measurements can be compared across products and shifts.

Examine variation

Review recurring outliers alongside averages and relate them to material or operating state. A delayed release may require a different response from an inherently long processing step.

Limit each change

Test one change at a time and monitor quality and downstream stations. Additional speed at one point should not create unassessed loads elsewhere. Improvement should be visible in the line’s good-part throughput.