How to Calculate Cutting SAM in Garments?

1. Identify the Cutting Operations:

• Spreading: Laying out the fabric on the cutting table.
• Marking: Applying pattern marks for cutting.
• Cutting: Cutting the fabric according to the pattern.
• Bundling: Grouping the cut pieces together.

2. Determine the Time for Each Operation:

• Observe and Record: Use a stopwatch to measure the time taken for each operation. Perform multiple trials to get an average.
• Calculate Allowances: Include allowances for machine setup, fatigue, and personal needs. A common allowance percentage is 10-15%.

3. Calculate the SAM:

• Time Study: If the cutting is done manually, time each operation for multiple garment pieces to find an average.
• Standard Time Calculation: Sum the times for all operations, including allowances, to get the total time required for one garment piece.
• SAM Formula: $$\text{<b>SAM</b>}=\text{(Total Time + Allowances)}\times \text{Efficiency Factor}$$
  
  • Total Time: Sum of the times for all operations.
  • Allowances: Additional time for machine setup, fatigue, and personal needs.
  • Efficiency Factor: The efficiency rate of the worker or the process.

4. Example Calculation:

Suppose the average time for cutting operations is 10 minutes, and allowances are 15%. 

The efficiency factor is 1.1 (assuming a 90% efficiency rate).

• Total Time = 10 minutes
• Allowances = 10 minutes × 0.15 = 1.5 minutes
• SAM = (10 + 1.5) × 1.1 = 12.65 minutes

5. Document and Use the SAM:

• Document the process and results for future reference and training.
• Use the SAM for planning, costing, and scheduling.

This approach gives you a standardized measure of the time required for cutting, which helps in planning and optimizing production.