Rapid manufacturing in the spare parts supply chain
Top Cited Papers
- 27 July 2010
- journal article
- Published by Emerald in Journal of Manufacturing Technology Management
- Vol. 21 (6), 687-697
- https://doi.org/10.1108/17410381011063996
Abstract
Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to describe and evaluate the potential approaches to introduce rapid manufacturing (RM) in the spare parts supply chain. Design/methodology/approach – Alternative conceptual designs for deploying RM technology in the spare parts supply chain were proposed. The potential benefits are illustrated for the aircraft industry. The general feasibility was discussed based on literature. Findings – The potential supply chain benefits in terms of simultaneously improved service and reduced inventory makes the distributed deployment of RM very interesting for spare parts supply. However, considering the trade-offs affecting deployment it is proposed that most feasible is centralized deployment by original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), or deployment close to the point of use by generalist service providers of RM. Research limitations/implications – The limited part range that is currently possible to produce using the technology means that a RM-based service supply chain is feasible only in very particular situations. Practical implications – OEMs should include the consideration of RM in their long-term service supply chain development. Originality/value – The paper identifies two distinct approaches for deploying RM in the spare parts supply chain.Keywords
This publication has 16 references indexed in Scilit:
- Cooperative strategies for the availability service of repairable aircraft componentsInternational Journal of Production Economics, 2009
- The next frontierStrategic Direction, 2008
- State-of-the-art in product-service systemsProceedings of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers, Part B: Journal of Engineering Manufacture, 2007
- Envisioning e-logistics developments: Making spare parts in situ and on demandComputers in Industry, 2006
- Moving base into high-value integrated solutions: a value stream approachIndustrial and Corporate Change, 2004
- Pooling of spare components between airlinesJournal of Air Transport Management, 2004
- An overview of recent literature on spare parts inventoriesInternational Journal of Production Economics, 2002
- Rapid prototyping for direct manufactureRapid Prototyping Journal, 2001
- DMLS moves from rapid tooling to rapid manufacturingMetal Powder Report, 2001
- Integration in ManufacturingComputers in Industry, 1987