Applying Lean Tools to Optimize Resource Utilization in a Mechanical Engineering Company

Authors

  • Thiet Van Duong Faculty of Industrial Systems, School of Mechanical – Automotive Engineering, Hanoi University of Industry, Vietnam
  • Linh Thi Dinh Faculty of Industrial Systems, School of Mechanical – Automotive Engineering, Hanoi University of Industry, Vietnam
  • Chinh Ngoc Nguyen Faculty of Industrial Systems, School of Mechanical – Automotive Engineering, Hanoi University of Industry, Vietnam
  • Chinh Ngoc Nguyen Cong Nguyen Faculty of Industrial Systems, School of Mechanical – Automotive Engineering, Hanoi University of Industry, Vietnam
  • Anh Hai Cong Nguyen Faculty of Industrial Systems, School of Mechanical – Automotive Engineering, Hanoi University of Industry, Vietnam
  • Tan Minh Nguyen Library and Information Center, Hanoi University of Industry
  • Tuan Duc Nguyen Faculty of Industrial Systems, School of Mechanical – Automotive Engineering, Hanoi University of Industry, Vietnam

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.24425/mper.2025.156150

Keywords

lean manufacturing, line balancing, E-Kanban, plant simulation, value stream mapping

Abstract

This study applied Lean tools without reducing staff, focusing instead on continuous improvement through enhanced machine efficiency, reduced waiting time, and optimized labor allocation. By using tools such as Value Stream Mapping, Balanced Transfer, Plant Simulation, and the E-Kanban system, the study reduced production time from 122.72 to 88.21 minutes and significantly improved overall productivity. Besides the workstation performance was improved, this study also addressed system-wide impacts, enabling effective reuse of labor when customer demand increases. The results show that a flexible application Lean tools is more effective than a rigid one and offers considerable potential for innovation in other manufacturers environments. However, the limitation of the study is that improvements have so far been implemented only within the production department, without involving other functional areas. In future research, we extend the scope of improvement to the entire enterprise and adapt this human-centered model to other manufacturing firms to promote sustainable growth without workforce reduction.

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Published

2025-09-30

How to Cite

Van Duong, Thiet, et al. “Applying Lean Tools to Optimize Resource Utilization in a Mechanical Engineering Company”. Management and Production Engineering Review, vol. 16, no. 3, Sept. 2025, pp. [nr art. 15], s. 1-11, doi:10.24425/mper.2025.156150.

Issue

Vol. 16 No. 3 (2025)

Section

Artykuły