Manufacturing
Manufacturing
Manufacturing is the process of changing raw materials into useful products. Manufacturing is divided in to two major steps called Primary and Secondary Processes. Primary processes change raw materials (sand, iron ore, trees) into industrial materials (glass, steel, lumber). There are three main categories of primary processes (mechanical, thermal, electromagnetic). Primary processes are usually done near the source of the raw materials. This saves on transportation of unwanted material. The industrial materials are formed into standard sizes and shapes (2x4, 4'x8' plywood, cinder blocks, bags of concrete, iron ingots). These industrial materials can the be stored until someone buys them and then they could be shipped anywhere in the world. Secondary manufacturing process change industrial materials into useful products that can be sold in stores to customers. There are six main categories of secondary processes ( separating, forming, casting & molding, conditioning, assembling, finishing). Secondary manufacturing processes could be done anywhere there is enough energy and labor to get the job done. It use to be done close to the intended consumers, but now with efficient transportation it is more often done where there is abundant cheep labor. Modern manufacturing is very focused on increasing efficiency and eliminating waste which in turn increases profits.
Manufacturing Processes
Primary Processes
Mechanical
Thermal
Electromagnetic
Separating
Forming
Casting & Molding
Conditioning
Assembling
Finishing