Eräsarjatuotanto

Eräsarjatuotanto, often translated as batch production or lot production, is a manufacturing process where a specific quantity of a product, known as a batch or lot, is produced at one time. This contrasts with continuous production, where goods are made in an unbroken stream, and job shop production, which focuses on custom or small-scale orders. In eräsarjatuotanto, production equipment is set up to produce a particular item for a specific period or quantity before being reconfigured for a different item. This setup and reconfiguration process is a key characteristic.

This method is suitable for products where demand is moderate and can be reasonably forecasted, or for items that are not produced continuously but have cyclical demand. It allows for a balance between the flexibility of job shop production and the efficiency of mass production. Companies using eräsarjatuotanto can achieve economies of scale within each batch, reducing per-unit costs compared to producing individual items. However, the time and cost associated with changing over production lines between different batches can be a significant factor.

The optimal batch size is a critical consideration in eräsarjatuotanto, involving a trade-off between inventory holding costs and setup costs. If batches are too large, inventory levels increase, leading to higher storage and potential obsolescence costs. If batches are too small, frequent setups increase production costs and can reduce overall throughput. Effective planning and scheduling are essential to manage the flow of materials, minimize downtime during changeovers, and meet customer demand efficiently within the eräsarjatuotanto framework.