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Intermittent Production
TL;DR: Intermittent production is a flexible manufacturing approach where products are made in small batches or custom orders with start–stop workflows, ideal for high-variety, low-volume manufacturing.
Intermittent production is a production approach where different products are manufactured on the same production line but at irregular intervals. It is commonly used when customer demand varies and customization is required.
What Is Intermittent Production?
Intermittent production refers to a manufacturing method that operates in starts and stops rather than a continuous flow. It allows manufacturers to produce multiple product variants using the same resources, adjusting schedules based on customer orders.
This system supports high product variety and low production volumes, making it suitable for make-to-order and customization-heavy businesses.
Features of Intermittent Production
Produces goods in small batches or custom units
Supports high product variety
Uses flexible, general-purpose machinery
Production flow is irregular
Operations adapt based on customer demand
Difference Between Intermittent and Continuous Production
Criteria | Intermittent Production | Continuous Production |
|---|---|---|
Production trigger | Customer orders | Demand forecast |
Flexibility | High | Low |
Scale | Small batches | Large scale |
Inventory | Minimal pre-planning | Inventory-driven |
Cost per unit | Higher | Lower |
Intermittent Production Methods
Batch Manufacturing
Batch manufacturing produces goods in groups based on demand and resource availability. Products may undergo changes such as size or design variations between batches.
Discrete Manufacturing
Discrete manufacturing involves assembling distinct components into finished products. Components are interchangeable and can be replaced or reconfigured.
Job Shop Manufacturing
Job shop manufacturing focuses on highly customized products. Each job follows a unique route through the production floor depending on customer specifications.
Intermittent Production Examples
Bakeries and cake shops
Custom machinery manufacturers
Jewelry and goldsmith workshops
Advantages of Intermittent Production
Supports customization
Efficient use of machinery
Better quality focus
Adaptable to design changes
Disadvantages of Intermittent Production
Longer lead times
Higher process complexity
Limited scalability
Higher work-in-progress inventory
FAQs
What is intermittent production?
Intermittent production is a manufacturing method where products are made in small quantities with flexible scheduling based on customer orders.
How is intermittent production different from continuous production?
Intermittent production is order-driven and flexible, while continuous production focuses on standardized, high-volume output.
What are the main types of intermittent production?
The main types are batch manufacturing, discrete manufacturing, and job shop manufacturing.
When should manufacturers use intermittent production?
It is best suited for low-volume, high-variety or customized manufacturing environments.
Is intermittent production suitable for Indian SME manufacturers?
Yes, it works well for SMEs handling customization, limited capital, and fluctuating demand.
