Material Handling Principles, Equipment, and System Design

This chapter is divided into three main parts: (1) fundamental principles of materials handling, (2) a wide selection of material handling equipment classified as conveyors, trucks, cranes, and hoists, and (3) material handling system design. Each type of equipment is graphically illustrated, and accompanied by relevant remarks concerning purchase cost, maintenance cost, frequency of use load moving distance, and volume of material. Additionally, typical material handling accessories, such as boxes, tote pans, pallets, and skids are described. The combination of principles and guidelines on equipment selection provide a basis for designing, analyzing, and improvement material handling systems. A main component of the chapter is the development and computerization of a decision-support tool for material handling equipment selection. Material handling requirements and costs are also discussed. Section III of the factory design project is illustrated using the selected product.