Benefits of a Flexible Material Handling System

Material handling is the backbone of the manufacturing and warehousing industry. Therefore, an effective material handling system is the key to a successful manufacturing/warehousing operation. A flexible material handling system is the one wherein you don’t have to tweak your workflow or make adjustments for handling equipment. It is flexible enough to accommodate in your facility and allow for some level of flexibility of operation.

When we talk about a ‘flexible’ material handling system, it means two things. First, it means material handling equipment that can be customized to some degree to fit your facility requirements. Secondly, flexible equipment is the kind of equipment that allows some changes in the way it is used.

For example, an articulated jib hoist mounted on a mobile/portable base can be transported to various parts of the facility and lift heavy material loads. Some manufacturers provide that option and it can prove to be immensely useful. It allows you to create a layout according to your exact requirements and specifications. This enables you to create a workflow designed to give you maximum efficiency to achieve your goals. You don’t need to make changes to fit any kind of equipment, so let us find out the benefits of a flexible material handling system.

Integration with workflow

When you install flexible material handling systems, it integrates seamlessly with your layout and workflow. That means you don’t have to invest time, money, and effort into making significant changes to the facility. For example, if you have a large facility with high ceilings, you can install your articulating jib cranes overhead. On the other hand, in a facility with low headroom, you can mount the jib crane on the wall. So, flexible handling systems integrate easily with your workflow without causing any hassle.

Efficiency

Flexible material handling systems allow for increased efficiency in the workplace because you can have the right equipment for each job and task. Each operation is different with its own set of issues and specific needs. The options for customization allow you to get the exact kind of equipment needed for the job. Having the right equipment makes your material handling more efficient and ergonomic. An efficient material handling process helps in less congestion, reduced downtime, and a better return on investment.

Better ergonomics & Safety

When you have flexible material handling equipment, the need for workers to assume awkward postures in order to handle materials is eliminated. It also reduces the chance of accidents and injuries because of better ergonomics and the equipment fitting perfectly with the facility layout. Flexible handling equipment allows for better ergonomics, which leads to greater employee safety. Ergonomically designed equipment helps the operators perform their tasks in a better, faster, and easier way so not only does it make a safer working environment, but it also contributes to efficiency at the workplace. For example, you get the option of primary and secondary axes caliper disc brakes with an articulating jib hoist, which enhances safety.

Therefore, flexible material handling equipment offers several benefits in any kind of operation.