Issue Date: 19 November 2014
Ref: TAB14/06
Simpler Lineside Handling Improves Productivity
Manufacturers are always looking at ways to improve production performance. One simple approach is to reduce the number of handling operations and the distances that production staff need to move when picking or retrieving components. This may sound obvious but consider a process involving 50 tasks: removing just one could improve productivity by two per cent.
Optimising production area storage using a modular system is a good place to start. Gravity fed live storage can be configured to match the size of items being handled to ensure optimum use of space. Components are delivered direct to assembly operatives in the right position and height - and at the right time - for productive and efficient work. There is no need to walk, move or stretch when picking items which means handling movements and distances are minimised. This reduces the time taken to complete each task and leads to increased productivity.
Replenishments of components and sub-assemblies can be made from outside the working area to eliminate disruptions to continuous working and prevent production and stock operatives getting in each others’ way. Items can be delivered in sequence to support strict stock rotation and quality assurance. Completed items can be fed out of the production area in a similar way.
Trilogiq’s revolutionary new Graphit system, available in the UK from The Tube & Bracket Company, is ideal for creating highly efficient, adaptable and lightweight line-side storage for handling items in a warehouse, factory or workshop. The system’s tubes and connectors are made from carbon fibre, anodised aluminium and stainless steel to ensure structures are significantly lighter than those built with traditional materials yet remain strong, durable and resilient. Structures can be optimised for the shape and size of the items being handled, the specific space available or the processes employed. Their lightness ensures they are easier to move than similar structures made with traditional materials.
All components can be reused to create new structures, to support incremental process improvements or entirely new applications, which extends their usefulness and promotes even better value and return on investment. One of the key benefits of Graphit over conventional systems is that are not damaged during assembly or dismantling which not only maintains their structural integrity but also ensures structures remain visually attractive. Changes can be made quickly and easily using basic tools in response to changing production requirements. Traditional fabricated bespoke facilities, on the other hand, are inflexible and expensive to build and modify.