When you purchase a new piece of equipment for your warehouse, it’s vital that you get the machine working at maximum efficiency. For large and expensive machines like folder-gluers, maximum output is how you make back your investment. Discover six tips for optimizing a folder-gluer machine.
1. Talk to Your Operators
The first thing you should do when you suspect that your folder-gluer isn’t working at max capacity is talk to the people running the machine. They may be able to point you toward key problems. Since they work closely with the machine, they may also have valuable suggestions for improving efficiency.
2. Do Everything in Large Batches
One mistake people often make is switching the folder-gluer’s settings in the middle of a busy workday. However, every time you switch to making a different kind of box, you’ll have to stop the machine and make changes. This eats up a lot of time. To be more efficient, organize your schedule so that you’re completing orders of the same box style in one go.
3. Create Standard Procedures
Experienced warehouse managers should already know about standard operating procedures (SOP), but this tip is worth mentioning anyway. Don’t skip the step of reviewing SOP when installing a new machine. These procedures increase efficiency by making operating decisions ahead of time.
4. Document Machine Setups
Once you decide on the optimal setup for making each kind of box on your folder-gluer, take detailed notes. Keep those notes somewhere that operators can easily access them in case someone accidentally changes the settings. These notes will also be important for streamlining the new operator training process.
5. Eliminate Unnecessary Steps
One of the most common time-wasters is walking. Every step that an employee takes between two points in a production pathway costs time. Find ways to arrange your employees’ workstations so that they take the fewest steps possible.
6. Increase Automation
Though it’s the most expensive option on this list, investing in more automation parts is an effective way to optimize your folder-gluer machine. These include things like tilting tables and box turners, which allow the folder-gluer to automate even more of the packaging process.
If you’re looking for high-quality folder-gluer feeder belts, take a look at our collection at Texas Belting and Supply. We carry dozens of styles that are perfect for handling boxes and paper. Contact us today for help choosing the right belts for your folder-gluer.