MES for Process Manufacturing
For food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, CPG and chemicals, we implement, upgrade and support Siemens Opcenter Execution Process to manage formulas, batches and electronic batch records.
Ingredients transformed into a final formulation
In process manufacturing, ingredients are mixed and then go through actions such as curing, baking, pressurizing, pasteurizing or chemical reactions until the product reaches its final state. Once made, it typically cannot be broken back down.
Goods are made in batches, measured in mass or volume, or in continuous-flow processing. Manufacturers must often track process parameters and test results for each batch, and are increasingly replacing paper with electronic batch records (eBR).
Key industries include consumer packaged goods (CPG), food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, and fine and specialty chemicals.
Process vs discrete manufacturing
| Process manufacturing | Discrete manufacturing | |
|---|---|---|
| Approach | Creates formulas or recipes to produce a product | Assembles parts in a prescribed process to produce a distinct item |
| Output | Bulk quantities, such as pharmaceuticals, food and beverage, and paints | Components or finished products identified by serial numbers or labels |
| Disassembly | Products cannot be broken down into constituent parts | Products can be broken down into their constituent parts |
| Definition | Formula or recipe | Bill of materials (BOM) |
| Advantages | Efficiency, cost savings, scalability and consistent quality | Flexibility, efficiency, quality control, customization and speed |
| Examples | Food and beverage, refined oil, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, chemicals, plastics, paints | Automobiles, aircraft, medical devices, furniture, apparel, electronics |
Key features of MES for process manufacturing
Process MES must track the characteristics of raw materials, intermediates and final products, and manage both formulas and specifications. For example, one product specification may need different formulations by region or season.
- Adaptable formulas and recipes
- Co-product and by-product management
- Supply chain optimization and cost tracking
- Shelf-life tracking
- Instant access to production documentation
- Real-time shop floor visibility
- Quality management and compliance
- Multiple units of measure
- Lot tracking and tracing
Why process manufacturers invest in MES
Modern MES enables efficient, flexible operations while ensuring the highest quality finished products.
- Shorter cycle times and more on-time deliveries
- Less demand on limited resources
- Production that does not outpace maintenance
- Efficient movement, storage and tracking of materials
- Visibility of current and historical performance
- Decision support to improve in-process functions
- Streamlined compliance and lower cost of quality
Ready to modernize your factory?
Tell us about your plant, systems and goals. A consultant will reply within one business day with a practical next step.