When we talk about industrial manufacturing plants like aircraft and automobile manufacturing, the biggest challenge is moving loads around at the time of assembly. Assembly is the final stage, where all individual components are put together to complete the production of individual units (like aircraft and vehicles).
Without proper load-moving technology in place, it can take several hours and numerous workers to complete the assembly of one unit. This way, a manufacturing plant can only roll out limited units per day. If you’re looking for ways to enhance your assembly line operations and boost overall operational efficiency, you should consider investing in air-bearing technology for your assembly lines.
This blog explains what air-bearing technology is and how it can help you overcome assembly line challenges and enhance the overall efficiency of the assembly process.
Traditional Assembly Line Operations
Industries have been using cranes to move heavy loads around for many years. Cranes lift each component (weighing as much as 50,000 pounds) and bring together the two components to be joined. For example, if a machine compromises two final parts, two cranes will be involved, each carrying one component. The cranes will move the components close together so that the machine’s two parts can be joined to make the final machine.
The problem with using cranes for assembly line operations is that it’s very time-consuming and even frustrating for the workers involved. Lifting such heavy weights, then maneuvering them, and lining them up with the other subassembly is very time-consuming and poses a serious safety risk for the workers and damage to the subassemblies and the surrounding areas if the crane drops the component.
Air Bearing Technology for Assembly Line Operations
Easier Maneuverability
Air bearings, more commonly referred to as air casters, are airbags that are placed under heavy components. These airbags are inflated with compressed air. When inflated, they raise the load off the floor. Air bearings bear the full load, as a result of which moving the load around becomes extremely easy. Each part can be lifted using air bearings. Once lifted, a single worker can maneuver the load around. It’s like the load is floating in the air. Subassemblies can be brought close to each other and joined together without the need to engage too many workers. This enhances the overall functionality and efficiency of the assembly line processes.
Enhanced Safety
The safety risk is much lower since the load isn’t being lifted in the air. The load is lifted off the floor but isn’t free in the air. It’s resting on the air bearings at all times. This means the risk of the load falling, injuring workers, and damaging the equipment and property around is significantly lower.
Saves Time
The load, which may take workers several hours to lift and assemble, will only take a few minutes. More will be done in less time, and you can utilize the workers elsewhere.
Final Word
Air-bearing technology is a breakthrough for assembly plants. The most challenging part of the assembly process, which is the load-moving task, is made easier and quicker with this technology, thereby enhancing assembly line operations. The benefits of air-bearing technology for assembly line operations are quite prominent and hard to ignore.
Hovair Systems offers a wide range of air bearings suitable for numerous operations. Visit the website today and let us help you change the way your assembly line works!