Material consumption

Material consumption is a key factor in the manufacture of material products, as shown in Figure 0 (Federal Statistical Office 2006). In the metalworking industry, material costs represent the largest block of costs at 50%, ahead of personnel costs, which make up 19%. It is important to note here that the global cost of materials in the metal producing industry rose by a remarkable 22% between 1991 and 2000.74

These facts underscore the central role that material consumption plays in terms of cost and efficiency in production.