10 - Selecting appropriate tools, equipment and processes - Types of manufacturing process

Question 1

One-off production

Answer 1

Labour intensive, skilled labourers and craftsmen

Question 2

Batch production

Answer 2

To ensure consistency, manufacturers use control devices, like jigs, templates and CNC machinery

• Machines often set up to do specific tasks
• Workers may carry out different tasks on a job rotation between machinery

Question 3

Mass production

Answer 3

Utilises automation of manufacturing processes when possible. May make extensive use of dedicated machinery as well as CNC machinery (e.g laser cutters)

• Highly automates, so don’t necessarily need high skilled workers
• Economies of scale