Single Minute Exchange of Die (SMED): case studies in different industrial segments

Abstract

This article purposes an analysis of the current state of art related to preparation times of the machines, having this as an important aspect of the competitiveness and improvement of organizational performance. By means of a bibliographical survey, the main aspects about the subject were related highlighting the variations of methodologies and methods of implementation appeared in the last decades. In order to check the application degree of these concepts, six case studies were analyzed in metal-mechanic companies, household appliances and automotive industrial segments, by visiting manufacturing plants and conducting interviews. The article also evaluates several characteristics from the current level of applications of Single Minute Exchange of Dies (also called Quick Changeover) in companies, such as the difficulties found in its implementation and consequent results.