By Larry Tarson
Automation Engineer
Thomas Conveyor & Equipment Co
During our site assessments, we do case studies to find something that could have been done differently or more efficiently. In a recent study on a warehouse facility job site, it was found that adequate maintenance clearance was not given around the center drive and take-up assembly of an existing conveyor system.
The original conveyor was installed early during the initial construction phase nearly 25 years ago. Time passed, and alterations to the area were made and floor to ceiling partition walls were fitted, with very little clearance given to the existing conveyor. This made for difficulty in making modifications to the take-up, and only minor adjustments were possible.
The warehouse layout was such: The conveyor ran the length of the receiving area to the stockroom. Alongside the conveyor was a staircase with a floor-to-ceiling partition wall. The client wanted to keep the wall, yet the conveyor needed to be replaced. The partition wall had to be opened up to remove the existing conveyor and install the new unit.
After careful inspection, Thomas Conveyor & Equipment found that two walls had been built: one which ran alongside the stairs and another alongside the conveyor. The dead space between the walls was more than ample to provide the space needed for conveyor maintenance and upkeep. The solution became evident; eliminate the extra wall alongside the conveyor to gain much-needed elbow room. Tall side guards could be added to the new conveyor to contain totes and cartons instead of the extra wall.
Thomas Conveyor & Equipment submitted plans and specifications for the warehouse remodel and permits were required and obtained. The city was satisfied that the work conformed to current codes and ordinances and we received approval to move ahead with the modification. Our subcontractors were properly licensed, and since this was a simple remodel, complete architectural drawings were not required.
Thomas Conveyor & Equipment coordinated with the client to limit interference to his operations during the conveyor replacement, wall demolition, minor wall addition, and painting of the newly exposed wall.
Our end result: The client received an updated operating area and a new conveyor which has space for service and conveyor maintenance.
Contact an application engineer at 844-220-0086 to find a custom conveyor system solution.