parts list
Worm gear with parts list
A parts list describes the composition of an object from its individual parts with the respective quantities. All components are listed categorically. There are different types of parts lists.
definition
As soon as a product/item/object consists of several individual parts and is to be assembled, a parts list is required. The units of quantity and the individual parts required for assembly are listed. Depending on the object, the parts list also includes individual assemblies.
The parts list serves as a basic building block in various areas, such as production, purchasing, warehousing or quality assurance.
In addition, it always breaks down a product from top to bottom. If the opposite is the case, it is a so-called proof of use.
Bill of materials offer the advantage that they enable error-free processes, require minimal resource expenditure and lead to increased quality.
structure and components
A parts list is usually structured in tabular form. It contains all parts, assemblies and the respective units of measure. In addition to the list number, the creation date and the drawing number, it consists of the components header, position and sub-position.
- The header contains data that refers to the entire parts list
- The position provides information on the individual components
- Sub-items arise when subsets of an item have different installation locations
Mission
In companies that produce objects, parts lists document which parts or assemblies make up a final product. They function as data structures and are the basis for correctly assembling the final product.
Examples of areas of application include development, design, calculation, production, requirements planning, procurement, quality assurance and spare parts management.
species
Bills of materials differ in their form of presentation. There are several types that are used in practice. Here is a brief overview:
- Quantity parts list/quantity overview parts list : The simplest form of a parts list. Product components are not differentiated and are therefore listed in an indefinite manner. Assemblies do not appear in this type.
- Structural parts list : This more complex construct contains all the individual parts and assemblies of a product. It contains an overview of all the production stages and their relationships to one another. If this representation becomes too complex - with too many levels - the modular parts list is suitable for a better overview. The structural parts list is referred to as multi-level.
- Modular parts list : With this type, only one level of the product structure is signed off. It is therefore also referred to as single-level. In the case of assemblies, each of these has its own parts list. These are then used in higher-level groups or products. With this type, the use of ERP software is suitable. Parts lists can be used in one another.
- Variant parts list : This type combines several individual parts lists. The prerequisite is that the components are relatively identical. This is used, for example, for an object that is produced in several colors.
parts lists in the ERP and PPS system
Since parts lists are fundamental components of production planning and production control, it is advisable to work in combination with PPS or ERP systems. In this way, parts lists can be created, edited and displayed in detail. The big advantage is that master data can be accessed easily.
As soon as parts lists are linked to work plans in the system, resources can be planned precisely. Costs can also be calculated in advance.