Production lines – basic information

Production lines are sets of machines combined with one another to work as a whole. The machines are controlled in such a way so that each of them has a specific function complemented by another machine. Especially designed complexes of manual stations are also called production lines – in this case, the stations are arranged in such a way so that to correctly interact with the technological process. The number of stations or machines depends on the products manufactured in accordance with the production cycle, which means that each product must go through a given station in the process to achieve the final shape.

• a set or complex of co-operating machines or a coupled machine
• a sequence of manual work stations in accordance with the production cycle
• an integrated production system

Production lines may carry out various tasks, for example short-distance transport, packaging, raw material processing tasks.

Production lines have to comply with the three general requirements. These are:

• quality ? they are to produce goods of uniform, comparable quality
• safety ? they are to operate safely both in terms of the safety of workers as well as the whole work environment
• efficiency ? they are to produce the highest number of good possible

The most important properties of the production lines include in particular:

• automation of partial automation of production
• line elements should be distributed in such a way so that they comprise a production line in accordance with the production process
• the machines are integrated with each other using short-distance transport systems
• the production line is controlled by a master system
• the line is secured, which reduces the risk of accidents at work
• there are control and measurement points deployed along the line to monitor products

Production lines are currently used by an increasing number of work establishments, not only large-area plants, where, for example, cars are assembled, but also in smaller ones. The lines are designed to order, depending on the technological processes used in production. They are offered, among other things, by Europa Systems, as well as many other companies. They are designed individually and implemented in such a way so as to ensure the highest productivity of operations.