Redesign of a polystyrene packaging process for a distribution center: Case study of the productive logistics sector in Cartagena de Indias, Colombia

Abstract

The objective of this study is to improve the efficiency of the polystyrene packaging process through the implementation of a new packaging machine design for a distribution center in the manufacturing sector in the city of Cartagena. Initially, a diagnosis of the current situation of the polystyrene packaging process was made, in order to determine the reasons or causes that affect the storage process, given that the demand required by customers is currently not met. Secondly, an analysis is proposed using different work methodologies such as static analysis, Ishikawa method, Value Stream Mapping and financial analysis to determine the causes of the problem and the feasibility of the project. In order to provide a solution to the problems identified in this research case, the implementation of one of the 3 alternatives exposed as a result of the research is proposed, taking as a reference the delay time in operations, usage times, bottlenecks, equipment capacities and costs associated with non-compliance.