Factor Governing Flow Pattern

In order to achieve the production targets, the layout of plant is decided. Except, in case of fixed plant layout, the material moves from one machine to another machine. So, the movement of material is more in the plant in any kind of layout. Hence, it is necessary to have effective flow of materials in the plant. Naturally, the minimum movement of material can reduce the material handling cost as well as it reduces the chances of damage of the material. To achieve, above objectives, the flow of material in the plant called flow pattern is decided. Flow pattern starts from the entry of raw material in the plant and it ends at when the raw material is converted into finished product.

Characteristics of good flow pattern:

1. Flow pattern must be short, smooth and easy to understand.
2. Flow pattern must be designed according to plant layout. 
3. Flow pattern should involve minimum movement of flow. Flow pattern should avoid repetitive path for the material, if unnecessary. 
4. Flow pattern should be such that the material flow is easily visible. The flow of material depends on the floors of the also. If the shop floor is having only ground floor, than the flow pattern will be horizontal type. If there are multi storey building than the flow pattern will be type also.