Material handling equipment is a critical part of any business — more so when it comes to distribution centers and warehouses. Today there is a smorgasbord of options available, tools, innovations, and mechanics you can employ. The variety is limitless in some cases and they are constantly being updated. In this article, we’re going to talk about the top types of material handling equipment you can employ. What there are and a small description of each.
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What is material handling equipment?
Material handling equipment is an apparatus and machinery used to move materials, goods, and products from one location to another.
The field can be divided into two broad categories:
- Manual material handling – MMH: Manual material handling generally consists of the use of a forklift truck or a pallet jack to move product from one place to another.
- automated material handling -AMH: Automated material handling includes the use of cranes, conveyors, and other types of equipment.
The most common type of automation in MMH is conveyor systems with automatic storage and retrieval systems. Conveyor systems are often used for sorting or packaging products at high speeds. Another type of automation in MMH is automated guided vehicles – AGVs. AGVs, meanwhile, are guided by navigation software that helps them find their way around. These are just some of the examples available nowadays.
Types of material handling equipment available right now
Today, thanks to advances in tech and many start-ups — not to mention AI-supported automation – there are dozens of great innovations revolutionizing the industry. Cutting-edge new takes on old favorites. From drones to AI-infused conveyors, the sky’s the limit and the future is very promising when it comes to warehouse material handling equipment.
For example, some innovations in material handling equipment, like the robotic arm and the automated guided vehicle, have made it possible for a warehouse to be able to complete tasks that would otherwise take many people hours to get through. They have also allowed warehouses to improve their safety standards, reduce the cost associated with manual labor, and improve their order fulfilling schedule by being able to work around the clock.
Let’s take a look at the 4 types of material handling equipment – machinery and tools – available right now.
Bulk material handling equipment
Bulk material handling equipment is a general term that is used to describe any machine or system that is designed to transport materials in large amounts or in “bulk”.
Bulk material handling equipment can be found in many industries, including mining, agriculture, and food processing. They are also found in manufacturing facilities where they may be used for shipping and receiving large items.
A bulk material handling system consists of a number of components that work together to move the materials from one place to another. The components include conveyors, storage systems, and lifting devices.
Engineered systems – AGV, AS/RS, etc
An AGV – Automatic Guided Vehicle – is a type of mobile robot that follows markers or wires on the floor to deliver items between locations. AS/RS -Automatic Storage and Retrieval Systems- are systems that store and retrieve items from a storage facility.
Engineered systems are machines that are designed to carry out tasks with minimal human intervention, usually with the help of computers. They can be used in warehouses, distribution centers, and manufacturing plants.
Storage and handling equipment – racking systems, mezzanines, etc.
Storage and handling equipment are used to amass, store and handle goods.
There are two main types of storage and handling equipment, which are:
– Storage: Storage material handling equipment offer the ability to store items in a controlled environment. Storage facilities can be used for storing raw materials, finished goods, or both.
– Handling: Handling is the process of transporting items from one place to another. It can also refer to the act of moving an item from a storage facility into a warehouse or distribution center, or vice versa.
Industrial trucks – hand trucks, side loaders, pallet trucks, etc
Industrial trucks are large vehicles used in certain settings. They are generally used to transport heavy loads, but they can also be used for other purposes.
Industrial trucks are typically large and powerful enough to transport heavy loads over long distances without the need for further human intervention. They also have a high ground clearance, making them capable of transporting loads that may be too high or too wide to go through normal doorways or narrow passages. Industrial trucks may only be operated by specially-trained drivers who have undergone training on how to operate them safely and efficiently.
How can your business benefit from material handling equipment?
Material handling equipment and machinery are the backbone of your warehouse. They help you keep everything organized and running smoothly. The warehouse is the heart of any business and it’s where all the goods are stored and shipped from. It is also where most of the costs come from as well. Material handling equipment can help reduce these costs by making sure that everything is organized and running smoothly in your warehouse. There are many different types of material handling equipment available on the market today and it’s important to know each and understand their purpose.
Whether you’re looking for a new forklift or some additional shelving units, it’s important to know what you need before purchasing any material handling equipment. Each warehouse is different, each one requires and demands unique solutions.