In the process industry batch records are key to keep track of the quality of a production batch. A batch record contains all the relevant data of the manufacturing process of a given batch. Batch records are important for traceability purposes, containing eg lot nrs. of used packaging and ingredients. These can be analysis reports of critical control points, internal controls or external lab analyses, visual product inspections, failure of equipment and logging standard checks such as temperature, pH,…

Currently, batch records are typically paper forms at the production line and handed over to the next shift. Paper forms have some disadvantages:

• data is not available. paper forms need to be handed in at the supervisor for verification
• paper forms are static and not very visual or interactive resulting in low quality registrations
• shift handover requires paperwork to be handed over

Digital batch records allow to go much further. 

• record photos at the production line using tablet or smartphone
• assist operator step-by-step by means of documents and photos
• review the status of the batch in real time anytime and anywhere
• send notifications to the back office when something is wrong

This avoids unnecessary delay of batch release and real-time transfer of issues and data to your colleagues.

How does it relate to MES and can you calculate OEE?

MES systems are effective in controlling machines and collecting data. However, MES are overshoot when your machinery is not equipped to collect data. GoRound will come in as an efficient and affordable solution to manually track the start and stop of the production and to record failures. Thanks to an extensive audit log which is collected automatically ith GoRound you can calculate the time of availability, production and the time of failure.