Which MES is best for me? A comparison chart
In the competitive manufacturing industry, production efficiency is just as important as production planning. A smooth and efficient production process ensures business stability. As modern technology continues to evolve, Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES) have become essential tools that meet customer demands and drive business growth in ways that many may not expect.
What is an MES System?
MES (Manufacturing Execution System) is an operational system designed to simplify production processes and enhance the efficiency of manufacturing in industrial plants. It integrates every production stage into an online network, including data collection, production process management, and production analysis.
The Importance of Using an MES System
An MES system is used to ensure and control the quality of factory operations in a Smart Industry. It aids business growth by improving production efficiency, reducing factory waste, resolving issues related to production time, controlling costs, and simplifying the ability to record and modify information.
5 Steps to Prepare for MES Installation in Factories
Installing an MES system requires careful planning and research. The process can be divided into five steps:
- Operational Planning: This includes setting timelines, goals, and budgets to ensure the MES system can effectively improve production.
- Defining Project Scope: Determine the scale and use of the MES system to align with the factory’s needs and prevent overproduction.
- Researching Factory Data: Gather production process details to help staff understand operations and optimize machinery performance. Identify weaknesses and areas for improvement.
- Employee Training: Provide training to all levels of staff on how to use the system to ensure understanding and minimize errors.
- Defining Testing Procedures: Plan and test the MES system before full implementation to identify and resolve potential issues.
MES Size and Model for Industrial Factorie
While installing an MES system is a step towards transforming traditional factories into Smart Factories, choosing the right size and model of MES is crucial. Factors to consider include:
- Factory Size: Larger factories require MES systems that can control machinery and production processes on a large scale, but this comes with higher costs. Installation may need to be phased.
- Production Complexity: Complex machinery requires systems with diverse functions.
- Number and Variety of Machines: The MES system must be able to connect and process data from different types of equipment.
- Workforce: A comprehensive MES system ensures convenient and efficient operation.
- Integration with Other Systems: Such as ERP, SCADA, PLC, HMI, Sensors, etc., which may already be in use.
Comparison Table of MES System Size
When comparing MES systems of different sizes, there are variations in functionality, tools, considerations, and costs.
| Difference | No MES | Small MES | Medium MES | Large MES |
| Working type | Use the old production system, record data with labor, paper and basic programs. | Use data from machines within the factory | The data used is fed through the device to the online network to connect to the system. | Connect applications and data to various systems for two-way communication. |
| Tools | ERP/ Excel | PLC/ SCADA | Shopfloor | MES |
| Strength | Information able to change any time without cost | Users can access machine data and receive alerts when there is a problem | Users can track machine status, measure performance, and check accurate data from the system.
| Users can connect data in real time to improve production quality and meet customer needs. • Real time Tracking WO, machine status, OEE System • SPC Data |
| Consideration | Not systematic. The data used may have errors and cannot be verified, and duplicate work may occur. | Limited functions such as machine data not linked to WO or Part No., making it impossible to analyze and develop data for a long term. | Decision making may require going down to the work site yourself. The information is not real-time, which means additional investment is required later. | High cost and the system is complex, so it needs careful planning and implementation by experts. |
| Expense | No cost | Less than 500K to 2M THB | 2M to 5M THB | 5M to 10M THB |
Conclusion: Using MES in the Manufacturing Industry
MES is an operational system designed to address the challenges of complex manufacturing processes and modernize traditional factories with advanced technology. It covers production planning, machine control, data recording, and performance analysis, enabling businesses to increase product competitiveness.
ARES is a software expert offering installation services for various systems, including ERP, ciMES, and MES Software Thailand. With over 40 years of experience, we help unlock your business's potential for success.
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