by Material handling equipment (MHE) is of great importance in modern industrial and commercial environments where a wide variety of materials and products are handled and transported every day.
Factors affecting selection of Material Handling equipment
The selection of MHE depends on several factors, including material characteristics, application requirements, facility layout, environmental factors, operator comfort and safety, and cost. By carefully considering these factors, businesses can select the appropriate equipment to meet their material handling needs and improve their overall efficiency and productivity.
- Material Characteristics: The characteristics of the materials to be handled are a critical factor in selecting MHE. This includes factors such as the size, shape, weight, fragility, and temperature sensitivity of the materials. For example, heavy materials may require a forklift or crane, while fragile materials may require special handling equipment such as protective packaging or cushioned pallets.
- Application Requirements: The specific application requirements of the material handling task are also important in selecting MHE. This includes factors such as the distance the materials need to be transported, the required speed of operation, and the frequency and volume of material flow. For example, if materials need to be transported over long distances, a conveyor system may be more appropriate than a forklift.
- Facility Layout: The layout of the facility is also an important factor in selecting MHE. This includes factors such as the height and width of the facility, the presence of obstacles or tight spaces, and the location of storage areas. For example, if the facility has limited vertical clearance, a low-profile forklift or a sideloader may be required.
- Environmental Factors: The environment in which the MHE will operate is also important in selecting the appropriate equipment. This includes factors such as temperature, humidity, and the presence of hazardous materials. For example, in a cold storage facility, MHE may need to be equipped with heaters to prevent freezing.
- Operator Comfort and Safety: The comfort and safety of the equipment operator should also be considered when selecting MHE. This includes factors such as ergonomics, visibility, and safety features such as guards and sensors. For example, if operators need to frequently access materials at high levels, a scissor lift with a safety railing may be required.
- Cost:Cost is an important factor in selecting MHE. This includes not only the purchase price of the equipment but also ongoing maintenance and operating costs. Businesses should consider the total cost of ownership of the equipment over its lifespan, including maintenance, repair, and replacement costs.
Types of Material Handling equipment
- Forklifts: Forklifts are one of the most common types of MHE used in material handling operations. They are used to lift and move heavy loads over short distances. Forklifts come in different types, including electric, gas, and diesel-powered forklifts.
- Conveyors: Conveyors are used to transport materials over long distances or from one location to another within a facility. They can be used for both light and heavy loads and come in different types, including roller conveyors, belt conveyors, and gravity conveyors.
- Cranes: Cranes are used to lift and move heavy loads over short or long distances. They come in different types, including overhead cranes, gantry cranes, and jib cranes.
- Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs): AGVs are self-guided vehicles that are used to transport materials and products within a facility. They are used in manufacturing and distribution centers to improve efficiency and reduce the need for manual labor.
- Pallet Jacks: Pallet jacks are used to move pallets and other heavy loads over short distances. They come in manual and electric models and are commonly used in warehouses and distribution centers.
- Hoists: Hoists are used to lift and lower heavy loads vertically. They come in different types, including chain hoists, wire rope hoists, and pneumatic hoists.
- Stackers: Stackers are used to lift and stack materials and products vertically. They are commonly used in warehouses and distribution centers to maximize storage space.
- Shelving and Racking: Shelving and racking systems are used to store materials and products. They come in different types, including pallet racking, cantilever racking, and shelving units.
- Robots: Robots are used in material handling operations to automate tasks such as picking, packing, and sorting. They can be programmed to perform specific tasks and improve efficiency in manufacturing and distribution centers.
