Implementing Milkrun in Lean Production

Abstract

Milkrun refers to a method of simultaneously delivering and retrieving materials called material conveyance and replenishment. By simulating the pull system, reducing inventory, and streamlining processes to eliminate waste, the method has gained popularity in the manufacturing industries to facilitate lean transformation and improve logistic efficiency. A framework for the development and implementation of multiple milkrun systems is presented in this paper. Leader standard work and continuous improvement, for example, were added to the framework in accordance with lean philosophies. To demonstrate how the implementation framework is carried out, a case study involving the final assembly of an electronics assembly company is used. A milkrun that is significantly complete, stable, and integrated is successfully produced by the method. The work provides practitioners with guidelines for systematically developing and implementing milkrun as the primary production material handling system.