Polymers: Scales of Production
Design & Technology: AQA GCSE, topic 5.4.1
Scales of Production
Scales of production is defined as the number of products produced over a period of time.
Continuous production
- Continuous production can run 24/7.
- Products from continuous production are either in high demand or thousands of people use them.
- Continuous production with polymers is very common.
- For example, injection moulding machines run all day every day.
Costs of continuous production
- Continuous production involves transporting products worldwide.
- This means continuous production has high shipping costs.
- Continuous production performs specific tasks quickly.
- This means continuous production has high tooling or machine costs.
- The unit costs for each product are relatively cheap.
Mass production
- Mass production produces products in their thousands.
- For example, small crates are produced in thousands.
- Mass-produced products are typically made from thermoforming polymers.
- Thermoforming polymers can be reused during manufacturing.
- Thermoforming polymers can be recycled at the end of their life.
Costs of mass production
- Mass production has fairly high tooling and machining costs.
- There is a degree of flexibility to change dimensions.
- Mass production has fairly high shipping costs.
- Shipping costs depend on where the product is made.
Test yourself on Polymers: Scales of Production
What are the benefits of using thermoforming polymers in mass-produced products?