Wednesday, July 3, 2013

Making a Proper Choice for a Conveyor System

Warehouse and distribution center professionals are bound to find it a grueling task to acquire the appropriate conveyor system for their needs. This is actually a common problem that plagues managers and planners. It can be quite confusing to determine the idyllic material handling system that befits them, much less develop and purchase it. It is an overwhelming matter that can possibly even create a succession of bigger problems.

There is a great variety in the conveyor systems and one’s choice strongly depends on several factors such as the application requirements and the product to be conducted. The system can go from the simplest to the most complex. Though there is a number of equipment in existence that can fulfill the needs of an application, there is a series of particular characteristics that can more effectively lead to the right conveyor system. Five examples are – cost-effective operation, versatility/adaptability, safe operation, energy efficient derived from green principles and reliability/low maintenance.

Presently, the value of conveyor systems is severely lessened. Whereas, they are often the last implement to be considered throughout the process planning cycle. This subsequently causes it to be the last equipment to be purchased. This is not ideal since the mindset in its purchase centers on the initial cost instead of the overall value that it can give. At that, the wrong conveyor system ends up being chosen, compromising the efficiency of the operation. This extends to a ripple of negative effects – inefficient long-term strategy, dissolved profitability, stripped competitive advantages.

Thus, it becomes clear just how important it is to get with the right conveyor systems. The question would then be what to look for in the ideal system? This is a question that can easily derive an answer by considering the root of the question. The very basic about conveyor systems is that they are needed for the transportation of products in warehouse and distribution environments. The conveyor system does so among successive steps in the order completion process. In addition, it allows for a balanced workflow through accumulation buffers in the process – in consideration of the varying processing rates related to each step in the process.

As said before, there are certain features or characteristics to look for in a conveyor system. All in all, the long list includes modularity, flexibility, scalability, safety, ergonomics, reliability, energy efficiency and maintainability. However, two factors will prove the most important.

First is to determine one’s product. This is something of great importance but often disregarded by people. Basically, the conveyor to be purchased will be handling the products so it is definitely important to make sure that the system can handle them. Second is, knowing the needs for the system. To put simply, the system is more of a critical element instead of a mechanical necessity. When the specific requirements are weighed, it can definitely suffice the present operational needs as well as the future expectations.

With the above-mentioned specifics, conveyor systems can be made easier, allowing one to realize its maximum benefits and operational efficiency.

1 comment: