ACCORDING to Industrial Conveying (Aust), when planning a revamp or new installation of a bulk materials handling system, modular adaptability is important for both hardware and software.
With the influence of fluid global markets, bulk materials handling systems need to be set up to allow flexible reinvention.
While conveyors, hoppers, chutes, bins, rollers and ramps are important, finer technologies such as software, controllers and sensors are key to providing a modular edge.
According to Industrial Conveying, turnkey solutions can be affordable, while offering adaptability and versatility in terms of the components included. The company suggests it is often better to start from scratch to obtain a customised fit-out for maximum efficiency.
Mixing old and new technologies can lead to less-than-optimum integration, leading to breakdowns which can be costly. Software and controllers have now become essential for bulk materials handling.
The company recommends implementing software running a warehouse management system, combined with a Programmable Logic Controller system for constant real-time, facility-wide communications. RFID can also provide a degree of visibility and transparency to the system, while automation can pull everything together.