Pitch
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Pitch is the time increment for releasing work and moving materials, calculated as takt time multiplied by pack-out quantity.
Definition
Pitch is the time increment used for releasing production instructions and moving materials through the value stream. Pitch equals takt time multiplied by pack-out quantity. If takt time is 1 minute and pack-out quantity is 20 pieces, pitch is 20 minutes. Every 20 minutes, a kanban is released for 20 pieces, a container of 20 parts is withdrawn, and production status is checked. Pitch creates the heartbeat of the production system—regular intervals for scheduling, material movement, and abnormality detection. Shorter pitch means faster feedback; longer pitch means simpler material handling.
Examples
A cell produces components with 30-second takt time and 60-piece pack-out quantity. Pitch is 30 minutes (30 sec × 60 pieces). Every 30 minutes: check production against plan (did we make 60?), release next kanban, withdraw finished container, deliver new materials. Problems surface within 30 minutes, not at end of shift.
Key Points
- Pitch = takt time × pack-out quantity (or transfer batch)
- Creates regular checkpoints for detecting and responding to problems
- Governs material handler routes and heijunka box intervals
- Shorter pitch = faster feedback but more material handling trips
Common Misconceptions
Pitch should equal takt time. Moving one piece every takt time is theoretically ideal but often impractical. Pitch groups pieces into manageable transfer batches while maintaining flow discipline.
Longer pitch is always more efficient. Longer pitch delays problem detection. A problem occurring at minute 1 of a 4-hour pitch isn't discovered until minute 240. Balance handling efficiency with feedback speed.