FACTORS AND CONSIDERATIONS

The movement of material from the place where it is to the place where it is needed can be time consuming, expensive, and troublesome. The material can be damaged or lost in transit. It is important, therefore, that it be done smoothly, directly, with the proper equipment and so that it is under control at all times. The several factors that must be known when a material handling system is designed include:

1. Form of material at point of origin, e.g., liquid, granular, sheets, etc.

2. Characteristics of the material, e.g., fragile, radioactive, oily, etc.

3. Original position of the material, e.g., under the earth, in cartons, etc.

4. Flow demands, e.g., amount needed, continuous or intermittent, timing, etc.

5. Final position, where material is needed, e.g., distance, elevation differences, etc.

6. In-transit conditions, e.g., transocean, jungle, city traffic, inplant, etc., and any hazards, perils, special events or situations that could occur during transit

7. Handling equipment available, e.g., devices, prices, reliability, maintenance needs, etc.

8. Form and position needed at destination

9. Integration with other equipment and systems

10. Degree of control required

Other factors to be considered include:

1. Labor skills available

2. Degree of mechanization desired

3. Capital available

4. Return on investment

5. Expected life of installation

Since material handling adds...