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Modern Materials Handling
Conveyor E-Newsletter Vol 2
Every success has a definable beginning. Successful conveyor projects are no
different. They result from a planning partnership between the customer and the
distributor/integrator. Working together, a project plan is developed that
considers a number of factors well before the first section of conveyor is
ordered.
Gary Ashley, president of Conveyors & Drives in Atlanta says he begins all
new projects by first asking his clients about their businesses and the kinds of
products they intend to move.
"If we can sit down and come up with answers, it will help us to know if a
customer is a candidate for a conveyor," he says. "A lot has to do
with the size and the scope of the facility, and also the product to be
moved." Such information is essential before embarking on any project. Here
are some key points you should consider with your distributor/integrator:
Ashley says this helps to define the type of systems needed. Is the conveyor to be used in manufacturing, warehousing, or distribution? The business you are in will have an impact on the suitability of various types of conveyors.
Do you want to save labor, improve efficiencies, speed throughput, increase capacities, improve ergonomics, reduce carton damage, or all of the above?
Depending on the product being moved, would a lift truck or guided vehicle system be more efficient and cost effective for your materials handling needs?
Different products require different types of conveyors. For instance, there
is a big difference between handling cartons and bulk products such as flour or
seeds. And some items simply are not conveyable. They might be too heavy, or may
be too long to make turns. They may contain legs or other protrusions that do
not permit them to ride comfortably upon a belt. Ashley says that often these
problems can be overcome if the client is willing to be flexible. For instance,
an awkward product can be placed in a tote or upon a slipsheet. Ashley
recommends waiting on the purchase of totes or pallets until after selecting the
conveyor, as products already in-house may not be compatible.
Is the system for a new or existing facility? It is much easier to design and
install a conveyor in a new facility than to squeeze it into an existing space.
Also, if in an existing building, it must be known if the installation is to be
completed while the facility is operating.
Is this a major project or small job? Are other materials handling products
to be installed concurrently? What is the timetable to finish it? What is the
budget for the project?
Is there a solid budget already approved to complete the work, or is the contact
with a distributor simply an expedition to see what a system would cost? Ashley
says that clients often do not realize what is involved with a system. It is
usually better to first define what there is to spend, rather than bringing a
wish list to the distributor. A client cannot buy a Mercedes on a Yugo budget.
"We also ask clients if they are looking for us to give them a budget
figure or a firm figure," adds Ashley.
This question helps to define the current state of the project. Has anyone
conceptualized the full scope of the project? Have any preliminary drawings been
made in-house before bringing it to the distributor/integrator? How will the
conveyor system fit into the overall design?
Often this requires a consultant or designer who can conceptualize the plan as a
whole. This person must possess the expertise to help the client obtain the
desired throughputs and efficiencies without creating bottlenecks or choking the
systems before and after the conveyor.
Ashley adds that some clients want to re-use old equipment or install used gear
to save money. Sometimes this approach works; other times it ends up costing
more.
Distributors are often better equipped to provide the installation services.
"Conveyor systems are getting more and more sophisticated," says
Ashley. "Some people think they can save money by having someone else
install it. That does not always work, and will cause trouble down the road if
not installed properly."
When all these factors have been considered, a plan for the project can be
created. Then the fun begins as actual equipment is selected. We will cover that
in next month's conveyor newsletter.
Conveyor E-Newsletter Vol 1: New
standards for conveyor industry
Conveyor E-Newsletter Vol 2: Ten
questions to consider before starting your new conveyor project
Conveyor E-Newsletter Vol 3: What
you need to know before you select a conveyor system
Conveyor E-Newsletter Vol 4: Conveyor
choices
Conveyor E-Newsletter Vol 5: Investigate
before you integrate
Conveyor E-Newsletter Vol 6: Ten
things to know before installing your new conveyor system