Moving heavy objects is never an easy task, especially when it comes to the manufacturing environment. Engineers have to take many things into consideration, like safety procedures, time and costs. So, the challenges of large relocations are quite extensive. At Aerofilm Systems, we have a practical solution for these challenges, so let us take you through the issues that are faced when it comes to heavy or huge relocations.
1. Human strength?
When it comes to large weights, such as ship engines or transformer cores, these movements are extra challenging. Human power wouldn’t accomplish much here, so a different solution is called for. But the question is, which technology suits best for such heavy relocations? Engineers are given the responsibility that these are moved quickly and safely, so a reliable solution must be found. Finding this is an expertise on its own, considering the many factors and parameters that come with such movements.
2. Floor load
The pressure of tons of weight on a floor can leave long-term consequences. In addition to the object that needs to be moved, the weight of the transport equipment also adds up to the total weight. A floor has its maximum load capacity, which should not be exceeded. Calculating the maximum floor loads, carrying out a risk assessment and finding a suitable solution are also challenges to overcome.
3. Space limitation
Space limitation is also an obvious challenge when it comes to moving (abnormally) large objects. Even though most production facilities handling these items are already large in size, there isn’t often much space available for simple movements. Therefore, a specific route past fixed machines, warehouse racks, and employees must be mapped out carefully. The object’s dimensions must be taken into calculations, as well. To move large items quickly, safely and appropriately, the right transportation equipment is to be chosen. This equipment can add to the dimensional calculations. A crane, for example, adds many meters to the total height, but wheels add only a little. Tools such as air casters add between 27 and 45 mm.
4. Employee safety
What is and is not permitted on the work floor with mega-movements is laid down in general health and safety legislation. There are a number of laws regarding the internal transportation of large weights that engineers must apply to. Manufacturing companies are bound to these rules for the sake of employee safety. The working conditions of the staff are one of the most important factors in a company.
5. Available time
With large movements, production within the facility may have to come to a stop until the relocation is complete. Transporting a load and positioning it correctly can take time. Optimally, this time should be minimized to prevent excess downtime. With wheels and cranes, relocations can take quite some time, but air casters can do this a lot faster and more accurately.
What is the best transport solution for your specific challenges with heavy loads?
To recap, the most important internal transportation challenges are: the load capacity of the floor, the available space during movement and employee safety. Heavy movement should be done effectively to avoid production downtime. All this is a considerable challenge. At Aerofilm Systems, we understand this. Based on our knowledge and experience we are happy to help you simplify your complex transportation problem. Would you like to know which solution best suits your needs?
We are happy to listen to your specific situation and think alongside you to come up with the best solution for your company.
In our Internal Transport Guide, we have outlined various transportation tools and techniques, comparing advantages and disadvantages in order to help you find a suitable solution for your company.
