In SAP Production Planning (SAP PP), the material numbers in SAP PP is a unique identifier that tracks each material used across procurement, production, and storage processes. Each material requires its own material master record identified by this unique number, allowing easy access, management, and tracking within the system.
Learn about Material Numbers in SAP PP, unique identifiers essential for tracking materials. Explore numbering types, SAP S/4HANA enhancements, and key T-codes.
Types of Material Numbering in SAP
SAP offers two methods for generating material numbers:
- Internal Number Range: The system automatically generates a material number during the creation of a material master record. This method is convenient when strict control over the material numbering format is unnecessary.
- External Number Range: Users can manually assign material numbers, providing control over the numbering format. This option is often used when companies operate multiple systems, such as a Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) system, and need synchronized material numbers across platforms.
T-code to Create a Material Master Record:
- Use MM01 to create a new material master record in SAP. Here, you can assign a material number manually if using an external range or allow the system to generate one automatically if using an internal range.
SAP S/4HANA Enhancement: 40-Character Material Number
SAP S/4HANA has introduced a significant enhancement by allowing material numbers up to 40 characters, whereas SAP ERP previously supported up to 18 characters. This extension provides more flexibility, enabling users to create detailed material numbers that capture additional information.
Important Consideration: Activating the 40-character feature can impact custom code, external interfaces, and other integrated SAP applications. Therefore, it’s essential to assess these impacts before enabling this feature to ensure compatibility across your SAP landscape.
T-code to Change Material Master Record
- Use MM02 to modify existing material master records, which is helpful when updating a material number or changing other master data attributes.
Key T-codes for Managing Material Numbers in SAP
| T-code | Description |
|---|---|
| MM01 | Create a new material master record |
| MM02 | Modify an existing material master record |
| MM03 | Display material master data |
The material number is integral to SAP’s ability to track materials accurately and manage production efficiently, making it a cornerstone of SAP PP’s material management functionality.
Interview Questions and Answers on SAP Material Number Ranges (MMNR)
Q1: What is the purpose of defining material number ranges in SAP?
A: Material number ranges in SAP ensure that each material is assigned a unique identifier, facilitating organized and efficient material management.
Q2: Which transaction code is used to manage material number ranges in SAP?
A: Transaction code MMNR is used to define and assign number ranges to material types in SAP.
Q3: How do you create a new number range group in MMNR?
A: In MMNR, click on the “Change Groups” button, then select “Insert Group.” Enter a group name and define the number range by specifying the ‘From Number’ and ‘To Number’ fields.
Q4: What is the significance of the ‘Ext’ flag in number range intervals?
A: The ‘Ext’ flag indicates whether the number range is internal or external. If checked, the number range is external, meaning users manually assign numbers within the specified range. If unchecked, the system automatically assigns numbers internally.
Q5: Can a number range group have both internal and external number ranges?
A: Yes, each group can have one internal and one external number range interval simultaneously.
Q6: How do you assign a material type to a number range group?
A: In MMNR, select the desired material type from the list of non-assigned elements and click the “Assign Element to Group” button to associate it with a specific number range group.
Q7: What should be considered when transporting number range intervals between systems?
A: Number range intervals are not included in the automatic recording of customizing changes. Therefore, any changes made within number range interval maintenance must be manually triggered for transport.
Q8: How can you delete a number range group assignment?
A: To delete a group assignment, navigate to the group, remove all number range intervals within it. Once the last interval is deleted, the group itself is automatically deleted.