In the process of sheet metal manufacturing, reasonable calculation of processing time is crucial for enterprise production planning, cost control, and efficiency improvement. Accurate time calculation not only helps enterprises optimize production processes but also provides a scientific basis for project quotation, personnel arrangement, and equipment scheduling. This article will discuss the calculation methods and influencing factors of processing time in sheet metal manufacturing.



# One, definition of processing time



Processing time refers to the total time required to complete the processing of a sheet metal part, usually including basic processing time, auxiliary time, preparation and completion time, as well as necessary stop time. It reflects the labor consumption throughout the entire process from raw material input to finished product output.



# Two, main factors affecting processing time



1. Complexity of product structure: The more complex the structure, the more processing steps are required, and the longer the working time naturally becomes.



2. Material type and thickness: Different materials and thicknesses of plates have a direct impact on the adaptability and processing speed of the equipment.



3. Equipment performance and degree of automation: Advanced equipment such as laser cutting machines, CNC stamping machines, etc., can significantly improve work efficiency.



4. Operator's skill level: The work efficiency of skilled workers is usually higher than that of beginners.



5. Production batch size: Small batch production often has longer unit processing time, while large batch production can reduce unit processing time through efficiency improvement.



6. Process route arrangement: A reasonable process flow can reduce unnecessary repeated operations and improve overall efficiency.



# Three, calculation methods of processing time

　　1. Empirical estimation method: Based on the working time data of similar products in the past, estimation is made, suitable for trial production of new products or non-standard parts, but with low accuracy.



2. Standard time method (MOD method or time study): Through motion analysis or time observation, standardized working time is established. This method is suitable for mass production of mature products and has high reference value.



3. Formula method: Mathematical calculation based on equipment parameters and processing volume. For example:



- Laser cutting time = cutting length ÷ cutting speed



- Stamping time = time required for single stamping × number of stamping times



- Bending time = single bending time × number of bending sides



4. Comprehensive method: Combining the advantages of the above methods, comprehensively evaluate various factors to determine the time, suitable for complex and variable production environments.



# Four, practical suggestions for the application of time calculation



- Establish a standard time database to accumulate historical data for subsequent estimation.



- Introduce MES (Manufacturing Execution System) or ERP system for real-time monitoring and optimization of time.



- Regularly train operators to improve their work proficiency and technical level.



- Focus on the analysis of bottleneck processes to find optimization space.

　　# Conclusion



In the sheet metal manufacturing industry, precise calculation of processing time is an important foundation for fine management. By combining scientific methods with actual production conditions and continuously optimizing the time calculation system, not only can the production efficiency of the enterprise be improved, but also its market competitiveness can be enhanced. Therefore, enterprises should attach great importance to time management and treat it as one of the key links for improving manufacturing levels.