Capacity model
Throughput calculator: from nameplate capacity to saleable output
Suppliers quote rated throughput; factories ship saleable output. This model applies availability, performance and quality (OEE) to the nameplate figure, checks it against your demand target and sizes the line with margin — so every manufacturer quotes the same duty specification.
Last reviewed 2026-08-21. Planning model, not an engineering guarantee.
Rated capacity
Shift pattern
OEE assumptions (%)
Demand check
Quick answer
Convert rated machine throughput into realistic saleable annual output and identify the capacity gap against a demand target.
Inputs that matter
- Rated throughput (units/hour)
- Hours per shift (hours)
- Shifts per day (count)
- Operating days (days/year)
- Planned downtime (hours/year)
- Availability (%)
- Performance efficiency (%)
- Quality yield (%)
How it is calculated
theoretical = rated × scheduled hours; planned hours = scheduled − planned downtime; gross = rated × planned hours × availability × performance; saleable = gross × quality; OEE = availability × performance × quality.
What the result means
- Theoretical capacity
- Gross production
- Saleable output
- OEE
- Capacity gap
- Recommended rated output — Demand plus a sizing margin the user sets
What is not included
- Nameplate capacity is not expected commercial output.
- Does not model line balancing, buffer sizing, seasonality peaks or labour availability.
- Not applicable — physical units only.
- Not applicable.
What must be confirmed
This is a preliminary planning estimate. Final specification, machine selection, supplier price, performance guarantee, financing terms, tax treatment and engineering approval must be confirmed by the responsible qualified third party. Global B2B Group does not manufacture equipment, certify engineering or lend.
Next step
Carry the result into a structured RFQ: Product, Required saleable output, Operating schedule, OEE assumption, Sizing margin. You review and approve every transferred value — nothing is submitted automatically.
Engine version 1.2.0 · reviewed 2026-08-21 · full methodology
Common questions
Why is nameplate capacity not the real output?
Nameplate (rated) throughput assumes continuous perfect running. Real lines lose output to planned maintenance, changeovers, speed losses and quality rejects. Saleable output = rated throughput × availability × performance × quality — the OEE model used here.
What availability, performance and quality figures should I use?
For planning, 80–90% availability, 85–95% performance and 95–99% quality are common starting ranges for well-run industrial lines, but the right figures depend on the process, product mix and shift pattern. Treat any pre-set number here as an editable assumption.
How much sizing margin should I add above demand?
A 10–20% margin above required saleable output is typical so the line can absorb demand growth, seasonal peaks and unplanned downtime. The calculator recommends rated capacity using your chosen margin.
Can I send this capacity spec to manufacturers?
Yes. Use the RFQ button — the throughput, shift pattern and OEE assumptions are attached to your project brief so every shortlisted manufacturer quotes against the same duty specification.
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