What does a factory layout mean?

Factory layout is the spatial arrangement of equipment within the shopfloor depicting the process flow. Industrial architects create the factory layout with the process flow. The factory layout indicates both movable and immovable objects. It depicts the position and area on the shop floor. 

The layout also mentions the available space, the raw material storage area, and the finished goods storage area. While preparing the layout, the industrial architects also consider the safety of the human resources and an effective workflow.

Layout preparation is a critical stage in the design process. All the stakeholders must give adequate thought to preparing the factory layout. It is difficult to change the layout after the building is constructed. The cost impact also has to be calculated. Therefore, the layout preparation should involve all stakeholders, working out all anticipated bottlenecks and resolving them. 

Industrial architects prepare the factory layout for a new facility, expansion, modification or product line change or if the machines must be replaced.  

Factors to consider during layout preparation

1. Process flow
2. Area for raw material
3. Area for finished goods
4. Area for consumables
5. Man movement
6. Material movement
7. Display of information
8. Any waste during production
9. Facilitation of future expansion plans
10. Safety measures
11. Optimisation of space
12. Incorporating management policies and the future direction of the company
13. Flexibility
14. Optimal Capital investment.

       Because factory layout planning is often a part of the facility's medium to long-term planning, an optimal arrangement is preferred. 

Areas mapped in the layout are:

1. Factory building
2. Shopfloor 
3. Other manufacturing areas
4. Warehouse
5. Raw material storage areas
6. Finished goods storage areas
7. Walking distances
8. Cranes
9. Material travel path.
   
   

What are the benefits of factory layout?
 

1. Lesser chances of clashes at the site
2. Sufficient space for man and material movement
3. The proper location for the extraction unit 
4. Placement of Signages and warning labels are more accurate.
5. Equipment alignment is better
6. Storage spaces
7. Proper escape routes
8. Less time on internal transport
9. Improved efficiency of space
10. Increased flexibility 
11. Optimal internal transport of the product
12. Reduced lead times. 
    
    

       To conclude, Industrial architects have to brainstorm with the clients while preparing the factory layout so that it is optimised and efficient.