Are you investing in a new conveyor or replacing an old model with a new one? Conveyors are large and complex machines, and the process of selecting one shouldn’t be taken lightly. To optimize the efficiency of a conveyor, you should choose one that matches the needs of your operation. Here are questions to ask when visiting various conveyor manufacturers to find the right conveyor system for you.
Table of Contents
What Will the Conveyor System be Used For?
It is essential to know the application of a particular conveyor. There are various choices and types of conveyors, such as gravity conveyors and power roller conveyors. Your first step is to determine the right one for your operation. Take into account these different types of conveyors and research how you will handle them to how you will integrate them with other production machinery. For example, an automated conveyor for food processing will have different requirements from those intended for a robotic integration, such as moving small boxes down a packing line.
How Will You Maintain the Conveyor?
How long will your maintenance team take to service the conveyor, and will it be easy? A conveyor system that is easy to maintain will impact your RO and throughput and improve a positive relationship with your team. Additionally, internal and external sources can provide service maintenance on a conveyor, depending on the setup. It is also vital to ensure that your conveyor provider can provide support and services if needed.
What Will Be the Lead Time for Standard or Customized Conveyors?
Lead time is influenced by the number of standards versus the custom conveyor parts you may need in your application system. If you are looking for a shorter lead time and variations, look for manufacturers with the most incredible variety and flexibility in conveyor system options. Most manufacturers’ lead time ranges from order to delivery is about six to twelve months. And sometimes, this can be expedited in return for a hefty fee. Ensure you partner with a versatile manufacturer with less lead time to save you time and money.
How Will You Test Your New Conveyor for Performance?
The testing process of your conveyor system begins with a visual safety inspection. Does it have all the security guards in place? Can you effortlessly find and read the safety stickers? How accessible are the emergency pull-stops? Additionally, you will want to check the features, error recoveries, load monitoring, and what-if scenarios, such as how it will respond to unplanned incidents or operator abuse. This concept will ensure that you get a conveyor that is running efficiently now and in the future.
How Will You Integrate the Conveyor System Into Your Existing Operations?
After deciding on the type of conveyor for your company, you will need to assess how the system will fit into your facility. Remember that one size doesn’t fit all. Understand your process and how the conveyor will make it more efficient. Use tools such as CAD drawings, part lists, requirements, and justifications to help build a class conveyor system to improve your facility.
Conclusion
Conveyor systems are an expensive investment with promises of making your warehouse operations reliable and effective. Selecting the suitable conveyor for your operations will optimize transport efficiency to meet your needs. Arm yourself with the above questions when comparing competitive conveyor system manufacturers.
