Track: Facilities Planning and Layout

Abstract

The design of plant layouts is a crucial element in ensuring the efficient and effective operation of industrial plants. However, traditional approaches to plant design often result in suboptimal performance, leading to decreased capacity, efficiency, productivity, and overall operational outcomes. Additionally, these designs can lead to increased lead times, reduced product quality, higher maintenance costs, and other inefficiencies due to inadequate consideration of the specific requirements and challenges faced by modern industrial environments.

This Study aims to address these challenges by implementing a flexible plant layout design that enhances the conventional production operations at General Industries, soon to be restructured as the Yemeni Company for Engineering Industries (YCIE). The study begins with a comprehensive literature review, focusing on the principles of plant layout design, different layout types, and their appropriate applications. This study provides a solid foundation for the subsequent case study, which involves the transformation of the central workshop of the Hayel Saeed Anam Group.

The methodology employed in this study includes data collection, problem identification, and analysis of the existing layout's efficiency using flow analysis and work study techniques. Based on this analysis, the project proposes solutions and develops a new layout design tailored to the specific needs of the company. Key components of the study also include process design, the selection of the optimal layout, configuration of work cells, and evaluation of the new layout's effectiveness.

In addition, the project explores the activity relationships within the new plant layout and administrative building, using activity relationship techniques. Space requirements are calculated, and area allocations for each department are determined, culminating in the final layout design. The design of workstations and material handling systems is approached with a focus on ergonomics and work study principles.

The findings of this study highlight the importance of a well-designed plant layout in optimizing material flow, labor efficiency, and space utilization. The results demonstrate how flexibility, employee safety, and comfort are integral to the design process. The study concludes with recommendations for the successful implementation and continuous improvement of the proposed layout design.