Run To Target Manufacturing (RTT)

What is Run to Target Manufacturing? 

Run to Target (RTT) manufacturing is a concept found in manufacturing that is typically used alongside productive maintenance, in which it focuses on eliminating product and process variability while continuing to increase machine efficiency. 

This methodology is aimed to optimize manufacturing effectiveness by identifying key process variables. These key process variables can include changeover, machine speed, downtime, etc. Once the variables are identified, the goal with RTT manufacturing – also known as centerlining – is to control and manipulate these specific variables. 

An efficient way to review key process variables is by spreading them out on a control chart and selecting the centerline – the midway between upper and lower ranges. 

What are the steps of Run to Target Manufacturing?

These are the 4 steps used in RTT (centerline) manufacturing. 

1. Selecting the key variables of the process 
2. Identifying a midway range for all of the variables
3. Charting out how these variables influence 
4. Verifying the range and centerlined settings are utilized in production 

Benefits of Run to Target in Lean Manufacturing:

Lean manufacturing is a systematic method that is used in manufacturing in order to reduce, or completely eliminate, waste. And what is typically described as waste can vary greatly in the manufacturing industry.

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Lean Manufacturing: 8 Types of Waste

Waste, specifically in Lean Manufacturing, refers to any effort made that does not successfully transform materials into a product that the customer can pay for. The manufacturing industry has pinpointed 8 types of waste that exist within an operation:

1. Defects – any form of poor design and equipment, improper documentation, poor quality control, discrepancies in inventories, etc. 
2. Excess Processing – poor processing issues typically related to management or infrastructure, such as lack of communication between teams or an inadequate facility. 
3. Overproduction – producing too many orders before they’re even made.
4. Waiting – often stems from unplanned downtime, idle equipment, or lack of process control.
5. Inventory – can become problematic with poor forecasting or over purchasing, resulting in too much raw materials and not enough orders made. 
6. Transportation – facilities with poor layouts, long distances, or slow material handling systems can create waste in transportation and increase other costs, such as labor and gas.  
7. Motion – considered as any excess movement that doesn’t drive any value to a customer.
8. Non Utilized Talent – a waste identified by management’s lack of proper employee usage. 

When integrating RTT in production processes, not only is the overall quality of the product enhanced, but also waste and delays are minimized. Thus, manufacturers that use RTT ought to see a decrease in waste and cost. Centerlining can also improve safety, minimize waste and delays that manufacturing facilities often face.