Discrete manufacturing is an industry term for the manufacturing of finished products that are
distinct items capable of being easily counted, touched or seen. In theory, a discrete product can
be broken down at the end of its lifecycle so its basic components can be recycled. An automobile
is a product of discrete manufacturing.
Discrete manufacturing can be contrasted with process
manufacturing. In process manufacturing, the product is created by using a formula or recipe to
refine raw ingredients and the final product cannot be broken down to its basic components. Aspirin
is a product of process manufacturing.
This was last updated in June 2009
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