MTM-2 and MOST Normal Time Calculator

Welcome to our advanced MTM-2 and MOST Normal Time Calculator. This tool is designed for industrial engineers, work study analysts, and operations managers to accurately determine the normal time required for various tasks using two prominent Predetermined Motion Time Systems (PMTS): MTM-2 and MOST. By inputting key motion elements and an allowance factor, you can quickly establish robust time standards, optimize processes, and enhance productivity.

Calculate Normal Time for Work Measurement

TMU Breakdown per Cycle

Element Type	Count/Index	TMU per Unit	Total TMU
MTM-2 GET (G1)	0	1.7	0.00
MTM-2 PUT (P1)	0	2.0	0.00
MOST Sequence	0	10.0	0.00
Total Base TMUs			0.00

What is Normal Time for Work Measurement using MTM-2 and MOST?

Normal Time for Work Measurement using MTM-2 and MOST refers to the standardized time required for a qualified worker, working at a normal pace, to complete a specific task or operation. This calculation is fundamental in industrial engineering and operations management for setting performance standards, planning production, and costing. It’s derived using Predetermined Motion Time Systems (PMTS) like MTM-2 (Methods-Time Measurement 2) and MOST (Maynard Operation Sequence Technique), which break down manual tasks into basic human motions and assign pre-established time values to these motions.

The concept of “normal time” is distinct from “standard time,” as normal time does not yet include allowances for personal needs, fatigue, or unavoidable delays. These allowances are added later to arrive at the standard time. The MTM-2 and MOST Normal Time Calculator helps in systematically determining the base time before these allowances are applied.

Who Should Use the MTM-2 and MOST Normal Time Calculator?

• Industrial Engineers: For establishing accurate time standards, optimizing workflows, and improving efficiency.
• Work Study Analysts: To analyze and improve manual operations, identify bottlenecks, and reduce waste.
• Operations Managers: For production planning, scheduling, capacity utilization, and performance evaluation.
• Process Improvement Specialists: To quantify the impact of process changes and justify investments in new methods or equipment.
• Students and Researchers: Learning about work measurement techniques and applying PMTS in practical scenarios.

Common Misconceptions about Normal Time and PMTS

• Normal Time is the same as Standard Time: Normal time is the time without allowances; standard time includes allowances.
• PMTS are only for manufacturing: While widely used in manufacturing, PMTS can be applied to any manual task, including administrative, service, and logistics operations.
• PMTS are subjective: PMTS like MTM-2 and MOST are based on extensive research and empirical data, providing objective and consistent time values, unlike traditional stopwatch time studies which can be influenced by observer bias.
• PMTS are too complex to apply: While requiring training, systems like MTM-2 and MOST are designed for practical application, offering a structured and efficient way to analyze work.

MTM-2 and MOST Normal Time Calculator Formula and Mathematical Explanation

The calculation of Normal Time for Work Measurement using MTM-2 and MOST involves summing the time values of individual motion elements and then adjusting for an allowance factor. Both MTM-2 and MOST assign time values in TMUs (Time Measurement Units), where 1 TMU = 0.00001 hours = 0.0006 minutes = 0.036 seconds.

Step-by-Step Derivation:

1. Identify MTM-2 Elements: Break down the task into MTM-2 basic motions such as GET (G) and PUT (P). Each MTM-2 element has a predefined TMU value. For this calculator, we use simplified values for common elements:
   • MTM-2 GET (G1): 1.7 TMU (for simple pick-up)
   • MTM-2 PUT (P1): 2.0 TMU (for simple placement)

   Calculate the total MTM-2 TMUs by multiplying the count of each element by its respective TMU value and summing them up.

2. Identify MOST Sequence Elements: Analyze the task using MOST sequence models (e.g., A B G A B P A). Each parameter (Action Distance, Body Motion, Get, Put) has an index value (e.g., A1, B0, G1, P1). The sum of these index values is then multiplied by 10 TMU to get the total MOST TMUs. For simplicity, this calculator takes the pre-summed “Total MOST Sequence Index Value.”
3. Calculate Total Base TMUs per Cycle: Sum the total MTM-2 TMUs and total MOST TMUs to get the total base TMUs required to complete one cycle of the task.
   
   Total Base TMUs = (Total MTM-2 TMUs) + (Total MOST TMUs)
4. Convert Total Base TMUs to Base Time in Minutes: Since 1 TMU = 0.0006 minutes, multiply the total base TMUs by this conversion factor.
   
   Total Base Time (minutes) = Total Base TMUs × 0.0006
5. Apply Allowance Factor to Calculate Normal Time per Cycle: The allowance factor accounts for necessary breaks, fatigue, and unavoidable delays. It’s typically expressed as a percentage.
   
   Normal Time per Cycle (minutes) = Total Base Time (minutes) × (1 + Allowance Factor / 100)
6. Calculate Total Normal Time for Multiple Cycles: If the task is performed multiple times, multiply the normal time per cycle by the number of cycles.
   
   Total Normal Time (minutes) = Normal Time per Cycle (minutes) × Number of Cycles

Variables Table:

Key Variables for Normal Time Calculation

Variable	Meaning	Unit	Typical Range
Num MTM-2 GET (G1)	Count of MTM-2 GET (G1) operations	Count	0 to 100+
Num MTM-2 PUT (P1)	Count of MTM-2 PUT (P1) operations	Count	0 to 100+
Total MOST Index	Sum of index values for a MOST sequence	Index Units	0 to 100+
Allowance Factor	Percentage for personal, fatigue, and delays	%	10% to 25%
Num Cycles	Number of times the task sequence is performed	Count	1 to 1000+
TMU	Time Measurement Unit (1 TMU = 0.0006 min)	TMU	N/A

Practical Examples of Normal Time Calculation

Example 1: Simple Assembly Task

An operator is assembling a small component. The task involves picking up a part, placing it, and then performing a quick adjustment.

• MTM-2 GET (G1) Operations: 2 (e.g., picking up two different small parts)
• MTM-2 PUT (P1) Operations: 2 (e.g., placing the two parts into position)
• Total MOST Sequence Index Value: 1 (representing a quick adjustment, e.g., A0B0G0A0B0P0A1)
• Allowance Factor: 15%
• Number of Cycles: 1

Calculation:

• Total MTM-2 TMUs = (2 * 1.7) + (2 * 2.0) = 3.4 + 4.0 = 7.4 TMU
• Total MOST TMUs = 1 * 10 = 10 TMU
• Total Base TMUs per Cycle = 7.4 + 10 = 17.4 TMU
• Total Base Time (minutes) = 17.4 * 0.0006 = 0.01044 minutes
• Normal Time per Cycle (minutes) = 0.01044 * (1 + 15/100) = 0.01044 * 1.15 = 0.012006 minutes
• Total Normal Time (minutes) = 0.012006 * 1 = 0.012006 minutes

Interpretation: The normal time for this simple assembly task, including a 15% allowance, is approximately 0.012 minutes per cycle. This value can then be used for production planning or to compare against other assembly methods.

Example 2: Material Handling Operation

A worker needs to retrieve a box from a shelf, move it to a workstation, and then return to the starting point. This involves more significant body movements.

• MTM-2 GET (G1) Operations: 1 (e.g., grasping the box)
• MTM-2 PUT (P1) Operations: 1 (e.g., placing the box on the workstation)
• Total MOST Sequence Index Value: 6 (representing walking to the shelf, bending, walking back, etc., e.g., A6B3G1A6B3P1A0)
• Allowance Factor: 20%
• Number of Cycles: 10

Calculation:

• Total MTM-2 TMUs = (1 * 1.7) + (1 * 2.0) = 1.7 + 2.0 = 3.7 TMU
• Total MOST TMUs = 6 * 10 = 60 TMU
• Total Base TMUs per Cycle = 3.7 + 60 = 63.7 TMU
• Total Base Time (minutes) = 63.7 * 0.0006 = 0.03822 minutes
• Normal Time per Cycle (minutes) = 0.03822 * (1 + 20/100) = 0.03822 * 1.20 = 0.045864 minutes
• Total Normal Time (minutes) = 0.045864 * 10 = 0.45864 minutes

Interpretation: For 10 cycles of this material handling operation, the total normal time is approximately 0.459 minutes. This highlights how the MOST sequence, accounting for larger body movements, significantly contributes to the overall time.

How to Use This MTM-2 and MOST Normal Time Calculator

Our MTM-2 and MOST Normal Time Calculator is designed for ease of use, providing quick and accurate results for your work measurement needs. Follow these steps to utilize the tool effectively:

1. Input MTM-2 GET (G1) Operations: Enter the number of times a simple “GET” motion (like picking up a small object) occurs in one cycle of the task. Refer to MTM-2 data for specific GET classifications if needed, but for this calculator, G1 (1.7 TMU) is assumed.
2. Input MTM-2 PUT (P1) Operations: Enter the number of times a simple “PUT” motion (like placing an object loosely) occurs in one cycle. This calculator assumes P1 (2.0 TMU).
3. Input Total MOST Sequence Index Value: Determine the MOST sequence model for the task (e.g., A B G A B P A) and sum the index values for each parameter. Enter this total index value. For example, if your sequence is A1B0G1A0B0P1A0, the total index is 1+0+1+0+0+1+0 = 3.
4. Enter Allowance Factor (%): Input the percentage allowance for personal needs, fatigue, and unavoidable delays. Common values range from 10% to 20%, depending on the nature of the work and working conditions.
5. Specify Number of Cycles: Enter how many times the entire task sequence is performed. This will calculate the total normal time for all repetitions.
6. View Results: The calculator will automatically update the results in real-time as you adjust the inputs.
7. Interpret the Primary Result: The “Normal Time per Cycle” is the highlighted primary result, indicating the time for one complete task cycle.
8. Review Intermediate Values: Check the “Total MTM-2 TMUs,” “Total MOST TMUs,” and “Total Base TMUs per Cycle” to understand the breakdown of time contributions. The “Total Normal Time” provides the overall time for all specified cycles.
9. Analyze Tables and Charts: The TMU Breakdown Table provides a clear summary of how each input contributes to the total TMUs. The TMU Contribution Chart visually represents the proportion of MTM-2 and MOST TMUs.
10. Copy Results: Use the “Copy Results” button to quickly save the calculated values and key assumptions for documentation or reporting.
11. Reset Calculator: If you wish to start a new calculation, click the “Reset” button to clear all inputs and revert to default values.

Decision-Making Guidance:

Using the MTM-2 and MOST Normal Time Calculator helps in making informed decisions:

• Process Improvement: Identify which motion elements or sequences contribute most to the normal time. This can highlight areas for process redesign or automation.
• Workload Balancing: Accurately estimate task times to distribute work evenly among employees or workstations.
• Cost Estimation: Provide a reliable basis for labor cost estimation in production planning and budgeting.
• Performance Standards: Establish fair and achievable performance standards for workers, leading to improved productivity and morale.

Key Factors That Affect Normal Time Results

Several factors can significantly influence the Normal Time for Work Measurement using MTM-2 and MOST. Understanding these elements is crucial for accurate analysis and effective process improvement.

• Method and Sequence of Operations: The most critical factor. Any change in the way a task is performed, the order of motions, or the tools used will directly alter the MTM-2 and MOST elements and their associated TMUs. Optimizing the method is the primary goal of work measurement.
• Workplace Layout and Ergonomics: An inefficient layout requiring excessive reaches, moves, or body motions will increase TMUs. Poor ergonomics can lead to unnecessary movements, fatigue, and longer normal times.
• Object Characteristics: The size, weight, shape, and ease of grasp of objects being handled affect the complexity of GET and PUT motions in MTM-2, and the index values in MOST. For instance, handling a small, fragile item requires more precise motions than a large, easy-to-grasp item.
• Environmental Conditions: Factors like lighting, temperature, noise, and vibration can indirectly affect the normal time by influencing the worker’s pace and requiring higher allowance factors. While not directly changing PMTS values, they impact the overall standard time.
• Worker Skill and Training: While normal time assumes a “qualified worker at a normal pace,” the actual performance can vary. However, PMTS aims to establish a time for an ideal, trained worker, making it a benchmark for training effectiveness.
• Allowance Factor Selection: The allowance factor directly impacts the final normal time (and subsequently, standard time). An inappropriately high or low allowance can lead to inflated or underestimated time standards, affecting productivity targets and labor costs. This factor must be carefully determined based on industry standards, company policy, and specific working conditions.
• Tooling and Equipment: The type and efficiency of tools and equipment used can drastically reduce manual motion elements. For example, a power tool might eliminate several manual turns or applications of pressure, thereby reducing the overall TMUs.
• Batch Size and Repetitiveness: For highly repetitive tasks, operators often develop rhythm and efficiency. While PMTS values are constant, the overall process efficiency might be higher for larger batches due to reduced setup times and learning curve effects, though this is more related to standard time and overall production planning than the normal time of a single cycle.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Normal Time and PMTS

Q1: What is the difference between MTM-2 and MOST?

A1: MTM-2 (Methods-Time Measurement 2) is a second-generation PMTS that uses higher-level motion elements (like GET and PUT) than MTM-1, making it faster to apply for tasks with fewer precise movements. MOST (Maynard Operation Sequence Technique) is another PMTS that uses sequence models (e.g., A B G A B P A) to analyze work, often being even faster to apply than MTM-2 for tasks involving larger movements and less precision.

Q2: Why is Normal Time important in industrial engineering?

A2: Normal Time is crucial because it provides an objective and consistent baseline for how long a task should take. It’s used for setting fair performance standards, balancing production lines, estimating labor costs, identifying areas for process improvement, and comparing the efficiency of different work methods.

Q3: How accurate are MTM-2 and MOST for calculating normal time?

A3: MTM-2 and MOST are highly accurate and reliable when applied correctly by trained analysts. They are based on extensive research and provide consistent results, minimizing the subjectivity often found in stopwatch time studies. Their accuracy depends on the analyst’s skill in breaking down the task into the correct motion elements.

Q4: What is a TMU, and why is it used?

A4: TMU stands for Time Measurement Unit. It’s a universal unit of time used in Predetermined Motion Time Systems (PMTS). One TMU equals 0.00001 hours, 0.0006 minutes, or 0.036 seconds. Using TMUs allows for precise measurement of very short motions and provides a standardized unit across different PMTS.

Q5: Can this calculator be used for any type of task?

A5: This calculator provides a simplified model for understanding Normal Time for Work Measurement using MTM-2 and MOST. While the principles apply broadly to manual tasks, a full, detailed analysis using MTM-2 or MOST requires comprehensive training and the use of their complete data cards and rules. This tool is best for initial estimations and educational purposes.

Q6: What is an Allowance Factor, and how is it determined?

A6: An Allowance Factor is a percentage added to the normal time to account for personal needs (e.g., restroom breaks), fatigue (physical and mental), and unavoidable delays (e.g., waiting for materials, machine adjustments). It’s determined through observation, negotiation, or industry standards, and can vary based on the nature of the work, working conditions, and company policy.

Q7: How does optimizing normal time improve productivity?

A7: By reducing the normal time for a task, you effectively reduce the time required to complete each unit of work. This means more units can be produced in the same amount of time, directly leading to increased productivity, lower labor costs per unit, and improved overall operational efficiency.

Q8: Are there other Predetermined Motion Time Systems besides MTM-2 and MOST?

A8: Yes, there are several other PMTS, including MTM-1 (the most detailed MTM system), MTM-UAS (Universal Analyzing System), MTM-MEK (for batch production), Work-Factor, and BasicMOST. Each system has its own level of detail and application suitability, depending on the precision required and the type of work being analyzed.

Related Tools and Internal Resources

Explore our other valuable tools and resources designed to enhance your understanding and application of industrial engineering principles and productivity improvement strategies:

• Comprehensive Work Measurement Guide: A detailed resource covering various techniques and methodologies for measuring work.
• Fundamentals of Time Study: Learn the essentials of conducting time studies and establishing time standards.
• Other Industrial Engineering Tools: Discover a range of calculators and guides for optimizing industrial processes.
• Strategies for Productivity Improvement: Explore methods and approaches to boost efficiency and output in your operations.
• Standard Data Systems Explained: Understand how pre-compiled time data can simplify work measurement.
• Detailed Explanation of Allowance Factors: Dive deeper into how to accurately determine and apply allowance factors in time studies.