Identification of production bottlenecks with the use of Plant Simulation software

The problem of bottlenecks is a key issue in optimising and increasing the efficiency of manufacturing processes. Detecting and analysing bottlenecks is one of the basic constraints to the contemporary production enterprises. The enterprises should not ignore problems that significantly influence the efficiency of the processes. People responsible for the proper course of production try to devise methods to eliminate bottlenecks and the waiting time at the production line. The possibilities of production lines are limited by the throughput of bottlenecks that disturb the smoothness of the processes. The presented results of the experimental research show the possibilities of a computer simulation as a method for analysing problems connected with limiting the production capacity. A computer-assisted simulation allows for studying issues of various complexities that could be too work-consuming or impossible while using classic analytical methods. The article presents the results of the computer model analysis that involved the functioning of machinery within a chosen technological line of an enterprise from a sanitary sector. The major objective of the paper is to identify the possibility of applying selected simulation tool while analysing production bottlenecks. An additional purpose is to illustrate the subjects of production bottlenecks and creating simulation models. The problem analysis involved the application of the software Tecnomatix Plant Simulation by Siemens. The basic methods of research used in the study were literature studies and computer simulation.