Implementation of the system of lean manufacturing in the Embraer (Brazilian aircraft manufacturing company)

Abstract

Lean manufacturing is a new and revolutionary way of manufacturing and assembling products. It is the next logical step in the evolutionary chain of manufacturing technologies, following on the heels of its predecessors, craft production and mass production. This monograph explains the conception of lean manufacturing principles, how they were adapted for the aerospace industry and how they are being incorporated by Embraer, the brazilian aircraft manufacturing company, also evaluating what has been done to successfully pave the way for its implementation. It is clear through the reading that successful implementation requires, first and above, a firm compromise of the upper management with a complete adhesion to the "muda" seeking-and- elimination culture. This work focuses on the positive results of tentative steps towards the first phases of lean manufacturing in an industry that traditionally produces a high technology leading-edge product, using already proven manufacturing systems.

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