Improve NZ Quick Changeovers Programs

Commonly referred to as SMED (Single Minute Exchange of Dies), Quick Changeovers is a system designed to enable companies to change from one product run to the next within 10 minutes or less.

Our Quick Changeover program provides a complete framework for improving equipment changeover times, using the following concepts.

1. Improved scheduling - optimising customer deman

2. External activities - activities that can be done outside of the changeovers

3. Internal activities - activities that are completed during the changeover

We offer a range of Quick Changeover related programs including introductory training, a Quick Changeover improvement challenge, and Competitive Manufacturing programs.

Many of our programs can be used to support a "Lean" or Competitive Manufacturing Program and may be eligible for funding.

The NZQA unit codes below are based on the original Australian qualification. Please click on the link for more information.

Level 2 & 3 Manufacturing

21504 Apply Quick Changeover Procedures

Level 3 in Competitive Manufacturing

21518 Ensure process improvements are sustained
21520 Facilitate a Just In Time (JIT) System
21522 Analyse manual handling systems
21524 Undertake process capability improvements
21525 Mistake proof a production process

Diploma in Competitive Manufacturing

21533 Develop Quick Changeover Systems

21534 Develop a Just In Time (JIT) System

Single Minute Exchange of Dies (SMED)

SMED stands for "Single Minute Exchange of Die" and originally related to fast tooling changeovers on machine tools such as milling machines. The term is now applied to any manufacturing process where downtime occurs as machines are reconfigured to run a different job batch or process.

SMED is oriented toward operations and shows the user how to find ways to make changeovers more efficient, no matter the industry or product being manufactured. SMED originated with the time-saving initiatives developed by Shigeo Shingo at Toyota in Japan.

In Australia TPM programs are often referred to as an "Equipment Care" program, or a Proactive Maintenance program (as per the newly released Competitive Manufacturing Training Package)

Improved Scheduling

Often overlooked during often overlooked during Quick Changeover programs, improved scheduling can assist many companies improve their productivity and delivery performance. With a drive for smaller batch sizes and rapid response, scheduling plays a critical role in meeting today’s demanding customer needs.

The Improve Group provides a range of scheduling improvement resources and training programs.

External Activities

These are the activities that can be carried out outside of a changeover. By focusing on these and preparing for the changeover during the current production run, many companies can significantly reduce their changeover times.

Internal Activities

These are the activities that can be carried out during a changeover. By focusing on the non-value adding components and streamlining these activities many companies can significantly reduce their changeover times.

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