A Brief Overview Of The Different Types Of Material Handling Equipment
Posted on: 8 February 2023
Material handling equipment is an essential part of any industrial or manufacturing process. The right material handling equipment can improve efficiency, reduce costs, and ensure the safe and efficient movement of products within a facility.
Here are some of the most common types of material handling equipment.
Cranes and Hoists
Cranes and hoists are two of the most commonly used material handling equipment. Both are designed to help ease the burden of manual lifting and transporting, allowing for tougher loads to be moved with a lot less effort.
Cranes consist of a platform or trolley suspended from one or more overhead beams, which can be adjusted depending on the object's size, shape, and weight. The object is then secured onto the platform and raised or lowered using ropes attached to electric motors located at either end of the crane beam.
On the other hand, hoists are used for lifting much lighter items. They often use chains or cables attached to an electric motor that can lift, lower, or rotate objects around them. Hoists are commonly used in applications where precise positioning is required, such as in construction or manufacturing sites. That's because they are equipped with adjustable speed and height controls, which allow for precise control over the movement of the item.
Overall, cranes and hoists are useful tools for any setting where manual labor would otherwise be required for moving heavy materials around. Their ability to handle various sizes and shapes makes them indispensable material handling equipment for many industries.
Automated Guided Vehicles
Automated guided vehicles (AGVs) are wheeled robots programmed to move materials between production lines or storage areas without any need for manual labor.
AGVs are designed to follow a pre-defined path, allowing them to move quickly and accurately from one point to another. They are ideal for moving heavy loads or large shipments, as they can be programmed to move in a specific pattern and on specific routes.
In addition, AGVs can transport smaller items that don't require a significant amount of manual labor, such as parts or inventory. They can also be used to move hazardous materials, as they can be programmed to follow safe routes and are completely enclosed, meaning there is no risk of spillage or contamination.
Furthermore, AGVs can be programmed with various sensors and cameras, which allow them to detect obstacles or other objects in their path. This helps minimize the risk of accidents and ensures that the material handling process is efficient and safe. For more information on material handling equipment, contact a professional near you.
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