Machine Type

Module Guide: Machine Type

Module Location

Settings > Production > Machine Type

Module Purpose

The Machine Type module serves as master data to create and manage classifications or categories of all machines used in the production process. Instead of recording each machine as a standalone entity, this module allows the company to group them into logical types (e.g., Biscuit Machine, Cream Machine, Mixer Machine). This forms the basis for asset management, production scheduling, and cost accounting.​

1. Main View (Machine Type List)

The main page displays a list of all machine categories defined in the system.

View Explanation

• Filter: Allows quick searching for a specific machine type by Machine Type Code.

• Machine Type Table:

  • Machine Type Code: A short unique code for each category.

  • Machine Type Name: A descriptive name for the category (e.g., Biscuit, Cream, R&D, Mixer).

Action Buttons

• Add Machine Type: Opens the form to create a new machine category.

• Delete: Deletes the selected machine type (only if there are no actual machines linked to it).

2. Add Machine Type Page

This simple form is used to create new entries for machine categories.

View Explanation

• Machine Type Code: Field to enter a new unique code.

• Machine Type Name: Field to enter the descriptive name of the machine type.

• Account for Machine Equipment Tracking: A crucial dropdown to link this machine type to the relevant account in the Chart of Accounts (COA). This can be a Fixed Asset account (for recording asset value) or a Production Expense account (for allocating operational costs).

Action Buttons

• Add: Saves the entry.

• Cancel: Returns without saving.

3. Steps to Create a Machine Type

1. From the main page, click the Add Machine Type button.

2. On the Add page, fill in the Machine Type Code (e.g., PRESS) and Machine Type Name (e.g., Press Machine).

3. Select the appropriate Account for Tracking from the dropdown. This is a crucial step for integration with accounting modules.

4. Click the Add button.

4. Integrated Workflow & Business Process

• Basis for Machine Master Data: Machine types created here are prerequisites for creating individual machine master data entries. Every newly registered machine must be categorized into one of the types defined here.​

• Capacity Planning: By grouping machines, production planners can easily see the total capacity available for certain types of operations. For example, they can quickly determine, "What is the total number of work hours available from all our 'Mixers' this week?".

• Cost Accounting: Linking to COA accounts allows for automated accounting processes. When a machine of type "Mixer" is used in a Work Order, its operating costs (e.g., depreciation expense or hourly cost) can be automatically charged to the proper account specified here.

• Maintenance Management: The maintenance module can use machine types to schedule preventive maintenance en masse for all machines of the same type.

5. Tips & Important Notes

• Create a logical machine type structure that matches your production process flow.

• Consult with the accounting department to ensure each machine type is linked to the correct COA account. Errors here can cause inaccuracies in financial reports and product cost calculations.

• The management of this module should ideally be handled by the engineering team or production manager in close coordination with the cost accounting team.