Material Optimization in E1 SFM and MRP

 We are running E1 9.0 with Tools 8.98.3.1 and have what I believe to be a common problem dealing with raw material inventory and MRP in metal-turning and forming manufacturing environments. Here is the issue:

- We use a single item number (F4101 & F4102) for a raw material that has a fixed OD, OD/ID, thickness, etc. that varies in length or area.In this case, 40002804 for a 2.5" OD bar. Primary and Component UOM is IN. We have considered the set-up of using multiple item numbers, perhaps with some suffix identifier representing length - 40002804-24 for a 24" piece for example; however, given the variety of raw material used, very high cost - we would have to increment in 1/32" - we have for now abandoned that idea for concerns over the huge numner