Modular 5-position assembly

The Westinghouse APIOOO design employs construction methods and a plant layout that are conducive to safe operations during construction. Much ofthe design is modular which allows the build and test of sub assemblies to be undertaken in a factory environment. The size of the plant and the number of components is also significantly less than previous generations of PWRs. These approaches reduce site construction work and the risks from those activities. Modular constmction in a factory environment also has a positive effect on product quality, which improves safety and facilitates reduced maintenance requirements during the operation of the plant. 

Modular designs offer less WIP and a considerably downsized process for the assembler, and greater variety for the customer. Downsizing of the assembly process means that it is shorter, and can be positioned closer to customer demand. Complexity can then be added later in the pipeline between customer order and delivery of the specified car into the customer s hands - a concept called postponed variety. The term synchro supply has been used to describe the delivery of modules not just at the correct quality and correct time, but on a real-time basis with the assembler and with the added challenge of zero safety stock. 

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