WBF Make2Pack workgroup commences

Make2Pack workgroup is harmonizing the ISA-88 batch standard principles and OMAC guidelines to develop conceptual models, terminology and examples for industrial automation

The World Batch Forum Make2Pack workgroup is harmonizing the ISA-88 batch standard principles and OMAC guidelines from the OMAC Packaging Working Group, to develop conceptual models, terminology and examples for industrial automation that can be applied to the total manufacturing process.

The focus of the workgroup is on batch processes, packaging and converting machinery.

"Our goal is to apply ISA S88 modular philosophy and define a library of component behaviours and techniques that apply to the automation needs of all manufacturing" said Dave Chappell, section manager for batch technologies at Procter and Gamble in Westchester, Ohio and chair of WBF Make2Pack initiative.

The group plans to issue a preliminary report or guideline in 2005/2006 with the ANSI/ISA standard expected to follow in 2006/2007.

When applied within industry, this standard will increase the profitability, flexibility and efficiency of manufacturing and packaging processes.

Through uniform machine design, it will also improve maintainability.

"The increasing need for manufacturing agility demands that we cut across the different silos and departments, speak the same language, and model processes the same way.

If we can merge our process and discrete manufacturing operations, we will generate great efficiencies for our corporations," explained Thinus van Schoor, OMAC Member and Automation Manager for SAB Miller.

The group is charged with better integrating "making" and "packing." In addition to the ANSI/ISA-88 standards implications, there are also clear ties to the forthcoming ISA-95.00.03 standard, which covers manufacturing operations management activities.

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