Moving heavy objects is not an easy job, especially in a manufacturing environment. Engineers must consider many things, including safety procedures, cost and time. So the challenges of large moves are quite extensive. Of course, at Aerofilm Systems, we have a practical solution for this, but first, in this blog, we will take you through the challenges we face when moving large or heavy objects.
1. Human strength?
When large weights are involved, such as ship motors or transformer cores, the challenges of large displacements are especially challenging. Human power doesn’t get much out of this, so another solution would have to be found. But which technology best suits such large displacements? Engineers must ensure that these mega weights are moved as well, quickly and safely as possible. There must be a reliable and safe transportation solution. Finding this is an expertise in itself, with the parameters and many other factors to consider.
2. Floor load
The pressure of tons of weight on a floor naturally has long-term consequences. In addition to the heavy objects that need to be moved, the weight of the transport material naturally adds to the overall picture. A floor has its carrying capacity, where all this weight added up could easily exceed this. So the challenges of large movements also involve calculating maximum floor loads, carrying out a risk assessment and finding an appropriate solution.
3. Space limitation
The challenges of large relocations may also be related to limited available space. Even though most manufacturing facilities are large in size, there is often not much space available for moving (unusually) large objects. A route past fixed machinery, warehouse racks and moving traffic must be mapped out. Dimensions of the load and route must be factored into engineers’ calculations. It is therefore important to choose the right transport equipment for heavy and large movements so that they can be completed quickly, safely and appropriately.
4. Worker safety
What is and is not allowed in the workplace when mega-movements are involved is laid down in general health and safety laws. So there are a number of laws attached to the internal transportation of large weights.
Manufacturing companies are bound by these rules for the safety of their employees. When choosing the right transport solution, this must naturally be taken into account. Staff working conditions are one of the most important factors in a company, which is one of the 5 challenges of large movements.
5. Speed of movement
With large movements, production may have to come to a halt until it is completed. Transporting the load and positioning it correctly can take time.
The optimal situation is to minimize this downtime by moving and positioning quickly. With wheels and cranes this can take quite some time, but air casters can do this many times faster and more accurately.
What is the best transportation solution?
The main internal transport challenges of large movements are: the load capacity of the floor, the free movement space during the movement, the safety of the worker and the ergonomic aspect finally, it is important that the movement is done effectively to avoid production downtime. Heavy displacements are quite a challenge, which we at Aerofilm understand. From our knowledge and experience, we are happy to help you simplify your complex transportation issue. Would you like to know which solution best suits your challenges?
We are happy to listen to your specific situation and think along with you about the best solution for your company.
