Fábrica vs. planta
The Spanish language has several terms that could translate to the English word 'factory', two of which are 'fábrica' and 'planta'. While they both could refer to a place where products are made, there are subtle differences in usage based on specific contexts.
Fábrica
'Fábrica' broadly refers to any place where something is produced or manufactured.
Vamos a visitar la fábrica de juguetes.
(We are going to visit the toy factory.)
La fábrica de chocolates está produciendo nuevas variedades.
(The chocolate factory is producing new varieties.)
La fábrica de textiles cierra sus puertas debido a la crisis económica.
(The textile factory is closing its doors due to the economic crisis.)
Planta
'Planta' can also mean a factory, especially an industrial complex. However, it can also refer to a specific part of a larger manufacturing process or system. Sometimes, it is used more particularly to denote high-tech or heavy industrial production facilities, such as power plants, chemical plants, or car factories.
La planta química produce una amplia gama de productos.
(The chemical plant produces a wide range of products.)
La planta de producción de automóviles tiene más de mil empleados.
(The car manufacturing plant employs over a thousand people.)
La planta nuclear es una fuente importante de energía para la ciudad.
(The nuclear plant is an important energy source for the city.)
Summary
In summary, while both 'fábrica' and 'planta' could be used interchangeably in some contexts to mean a factory or plant where goods are produced, 'fábrica' has broader applicability covering all general types of factories. In contrast, 'planta' can imply an industrial complex or a specific part of a manufacturing process. Note that regional preferences might also dictate the use of these words.