SAM Calculator (Standard Allowed Minute Calculator)

Calculate Standard Allowed Minute

SAM Formula

Standard Allowed Minute (SAM) measures the time a trained operator needs to finish one operation at a normal pace, including the allowances a factory grants for handling, machine delays and fatigue.

SAM = Cycle Time × (Rating ÷ 100) × (1 + Allowance ÷ 100)

How the calculator works

1. The time study records several cycle times, and the calculator uses their average as the cycle time.
2. The rating converts the observed time to normal pace. Basic time equals cycle time multiplied by the rating.
3. The allowance percentage adds extra time on top of the basic time.
4. The sum of basic time and allowance time gives the SAM of the operation.

Adding the SAM of every operation in a style gives the SAM of the whole garment. Multiplying SAM by the factory cost per minute gives the labor cost of the garment.

SAM Calculation Example

A time study of a sewing operation records an average cycle time of 0.60 minutes. The operator works at 80 percent rating, and the factory applies a 30 percent total allowance.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does SAM mean in garment manufacturing?

SAM stands for Standard Allowed Minute. It is the standard time allowed to complete one operation or one garment, and factories use it for line balancing, capacity planning and costing.

What is the difference between SAM and SMV?

Many factories use SAM and SMV (Standard Minute Value) as the same measure. Some factories use SMV for a single operation and SAM for the complete product.

What rating should I use?

Time study engineers usually assign a rating between 75 and 125 percent. A rating of 100 percent represents a normal working pace.

Why does a lower rating give a lower SAM?

A slow operator takes longer than the standard time, so the rating reduces the observed time to the time a normal operator needs. A fast operator has a rating above 100 percent, which raises the observed time to the standard.