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Materials Handling, Storage, Use, and Disposal

Learning objectives

• Understand the material handling

• Explain the types of equipment’s

• Discuss the applications of material handling system

Materials Handling, Storage, Use, and Disposal

• Materials handling is a necessary and significant component of any productive activity.

• It is something that goes on in every plant all the time.

• Materials handling means providing the right amount of the right material, in the right condition, at the right place, at the right time, in the right position and for the right cost, by using the right method.

• It is simply picking up, moving, and lying down of materials through manufacture.

• It applies to the movement of raw materials, parts in process, finished goods, packing materials, and disposal of scraps.

• In general, hundreds and thousands tons of materials are handled daily requiring the use of large amount of manpower while the movement of materials takes place from one processing area to another or from one department to another department of the plant.

• The cost of materials handling contributes significantly to the total manufacturing cost.

DEFINITIONS

• “Material handling is the movement and storage of material at the lowest possible cost through the use of proper method and equipment”.

• “Material handling embraces all of the basic operations involved in the movement of bulk, packaged, and individual products in a semisolid or solid state by means of machinery, and within limits of a place of business”.

• “Material handling is the art and science of moving, storing, protecting, and controlling material”

Objectives

The primary objective of a materials handling system is to reduce the unit cost of production. The other subordinate objectives are:

1. Reduce manufacturing cycle time

2. Reduce delays, and damage

3. Promote safety and improve working conditions

4. Maintain or improve product quality

5. Promote productivity

ü Material should flow in a straight line

ü Material should move as short a distance as possible

ü Use gravity

ü Move more material at one time

ü Automate material handling

6. Promote increased use of facilities

ü Promote the use of building cube

ü Purchase versatile equipment

ü Develop a preventive maintenance program

ü Maximize the equipment utilization etc.

7. Control inventory

Types of Equipment

Screw conveyors

• A screw conveyor or auger conveyor is a mechanism that uses a rotating helical screw blade, called a “flighting”, usually within a tube, to move liquid or granular materials. They are used in many bulk handling industries.

Pneumatic conveyers

• Pneumatic conveying systems are operated by gas under pressure. They have improved agitation caused by a controlled process of material addition which greatly reduces batch time.

• A pneumatic system’s contained transfer can charge powder into a vessel under vacuum or pressure, and even with liquids (e.g. solvents) present in it.

Applications of materials handling systems

Flow and process management

Inventory management and control

Customer delivery

Material handling systems are used in every industry, including:

Aerospace

Appliance

Automotive

Beverage

Chemicals

Construction

Consumer goods

E-Commerce

Food

Hardware

Summary

• Material handling is a necessary and significant component of any productive activity.

• It is something that goes on in every plant all the time.

• “Material handling is the movement and storage of material at the lowest possible cost through the use of proper method and equipment”.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is material handling only relevant to large industries?
- Material handling is crucial for businesses of all sizes. Even small enterprises benefit from efficient logistics and streamlined processes.
How does automated material handling contribute to efficiency?
- Automation reduces human errors, increases speed, and allows for 24/7 operations, significantly improving overall efficiency.
What safety measures should be taken in material handling?
- Safety measures include proper training for operators, regular equipment maintenance, and the use of personal protective equipment.
Can material handling systems be customized for specific industries?
- Yes, material handling systems can be tailored to meet the unique needs of various industries, ensuring maximum efficiency.
Are there any upcoming trends in material handling technology?
- Yes, trends include the integration of artificial intelligence, IoT devices, and robotics to further enhance the capabilities of material handling systems.