The Different Types of Manufacturing Processes That Are Used Today

This study shows the manufacturing industry will have a shortage of 2.1 million workers by 2030. Yet, the industry keeps growing, producing components that impact many other industries.

These include electronics, automotive, and medical components as well as consumer goods.

That’s mostly because of increasing automation in manufacturing processes. Find out more about the different processes in this critical stage of the product development lifecycle.  

Job Shop Manufacturing Processes

This manufacturing process involves several interconnected production areas. At each station, workers complete one section of the production process.

The cycle continues until the item’s complete.

The process is slow, but it works well for custom products as there is potential to add unique aspects to each item.

This procedure works well for high-tech components or everyday items like cabinetry. It suits business owners who prefer a hands-on approach in their manufacturing business. 

Repetitive Types of Manufacturing

Repetitive manufacturing produces standardized goods with no variation between each item. 

It’s perfect for industries where standardized dimensions and characteristics are critical. It usually pertains to instances where there’s stable consumer demand for a product. 

Repetitive manufacturing uses an assembly line to churn out goods quickly and reliably.

Discrete Manufacturing

Like repetitive manufacturing, discrete manufacturing uses production lines to streamline operations. It’s a diverse and flexible process.

Discrete manufacturing relies on various setups and changeovers to produce different items.

When the run switches from one product to another, workers must change the assembly line configuration. This results in time and labor costs that affect the price of the finished product.  

Continuous Process Manufacturing

This type of manufacturing works like repetitive manufacturing. It also runs 24/7, producing large quantities of the same product.

A key difference is that the raw materials in this instance comprise:

• liquids
• slurries
• powders
• and gases

The pharmaceutical industry typically uses this production method.  

Batch Process Manufacturing

Batch process manufacturing works best for manufacturers that produce a line of products, but only produce one variety at a time. It works on a made-to-order basis. 

For instance, a manufacturer that produces toys might put together an order for dolls in one batch and one for building blocks in another. 

A process called CNC machining helps streamline this type of manufacturing. You can find out more about this technique here – https://prototechasia.com/en/what-is-a-cnc-machine.

3D Printing

This modern manufacturing solution creates 3-dimensional objects, layer by layer. It mostly uses materials like metal and plastic.

At present, 3D printing is an expensive type of manufacturing. It’s most often used for producing niche items, like:

• Prosthetics
• Musical instruments
• Firearms
• Dental devices 

The process hinges on a digital model rather than a mechanical one.

Oiling the Wheels of Industry

Thanks to ongoing refinements in manufacturing processes, manufacturers can offer ongoing, reliable service. So, we can rely on them to keep delivering the things we need at home and work. 

What’s more, advancing technologies are helping to speed up the manufacturing process. That means lower prices for the consumer in the end. 

Are you curious about the role of technology in our daily lives? Browse our blog to learn more.