Machining Parameter Optimization with Lot Size Considerations

Abstract

The research literature on metal cutting contains numerous papers on optimizing machining parameters for maximum production rate or minimum production cost. Analyses presented in the literature, however, have been limited to conditions of “steady-state” manufacture (i.e., a large number of parts were to be produced). In today's metal cutting industry, over ninety percent of all parts are produced in lots of thirty or less. This implies that steady-state manufacturing may never be reached. This paper introduces lot size information into the selection of machine operating rates. A solution procedure is presented for the single decision variable (machine speed) case. An example problem is also presented to illustrate the gains that can be attained using lot size information.