Employee
A bill of materials is a list that specifies the parts used to build a product. When a company produces a product, it must control the materials and components used in its creation. This list must be included with the product before it is shipped to a merchant, customer, or buyer. It is usually included in the box in which the product is shipped.
In some ways, a bill of materials is similar to a recipe and all the ingredients used are listed. Strict record keeping is the main rule for creating a bill of materials, because no item can be omitted. This is primarily because the list can be used later to narrow down potential problems if product repairs are needed. Also, a bill of materials is essential when ordering replacement parts.
To get an idea of what information is included in a bill of materials, it is helpful to refer to an example list of a freezer. The components of the upright freezer are divided into three parts: door, cabinet and system. Each of these parts also contains a bill of materials.
For the door, the material list includes a white door gasket, lock kit, key lock, inner cover panel, outer door panel, socket knob, screw washers, panel clips, and insulation. While this may mean little to a layman, someone with appliance knowledge can quickly identify problems and find replacement parts if it comes time to check the bill of materials. The freezer cabinet is next on the list and contains the breaker ends, frame, nameplate, temperature control knob, temperature control gauge, screw hinges, breaker corners, hinge assemblies, breaker hinge, screws, owner’s manual, parts list, touch-up paint, bill of material sheet, and panel access.
Finally, there is a list of materials for the freezing system. System materials include Condenser, Drier, Filter, Wire Harness, Clip Springs, Screws, Washer Heads, Grommets, Compressor, Compressor Electrical Components, Starter, Overload Protector, Wire Harness, Compressor Cover, Lead Wires. ground, fasteners and power guide. Even the screws are listed separately by size, making it easy for someone doing repairs to find the exact replacement screw they need.