Skid type cases : In most of the cases, packaging of heavy engineering items is done in skid type cases and the base of such cases takes the entire load. Naturally the design of the base needs depends upon the gross weight, length and width of the box. In general, the height of skid is taken to be twice the width. The section can be designed by considering the bending during lifting either by forklift truck or by crane using slings. It is always better if the skid and end base boards are bolted instead of being nailed. The rubbing strips should be provided below the skids for ease in lifting. In order to avoid distortion of the case during lifting, diagonal battens are provided. For this reason the cases can also be reinforced by provided mild steel "L" angles at corners. Reinforcing straps add to the strength of the box and its section can be chosen based upon the tensile strength of the strap required as given below:
Tensile strength of the strap required = (gross weight x 10) / number of straps
By using this tensile strength, we can select different straps of the same cross section. However, it is desirable to select a strap which is wide enough, as this will avoid the biting into edges of the box.
Compatibility
This is determined by the nature of the product, surface characteristics and the properties of the packaging materials used. Properties of packaging material should be checked before its use. The physical contact should not contaminate the product and cause deterioration of the factory fresh finish of the product. Metal surfaces corrode, rubber product perishes, paper gets discoloured and disintegrated, fabric and leather rot or are mildewed. In this connection, it is always desirable not to use damp paper or damp wood wool or unseasoned timber, as they give to corrosion during the transit and storage.
Provisions for easy handling
The physical hazards encountered by the package during the transit can be reduced to a greater extent by using handling devices. Easy handling can be achieved by different ways as given below:
1) By providing the skids to the wooden case for ease in mechanical lifting
2) Odd shaped items give rise to uneven distribution of load in the pack and it is preferable to pack each item as two in one pack in such a manner so as to distribute weight uniformly. This can also be regarded as a provision of easy handling.
3) If it is not possible to pack two odd shaped items in one pack as mentioned in item (2) above, a proper aligning position or hook position should be marked on the package by ascertaining the position of its centre of gravity.
4) Instructions for opening should be provided or may be marked on the product at the time of packing. This will much reduce the chances of damage.
5) The dimensions of the pack should be such as to suit the shipping and lifting facilities.
6) In some cases, it is possible to provide handles to the package and make the package into "two to carry load".
Economic Considerations
The fulfillment of all the objectives of a satisfactory packaging system at the lowest possible cost is one of the most important functions of packaging scheme. It also involves continuous research of damage rates, protection and cost involved and establishment in relation to the type of the product, cost of the product and the quality of the product.
Procurement of materials
Once the packaging design is chosen, the necessity of procuring the raw material arises. The quantity of the material required per month or per specific period or as decided by the capacity of storing facilities, can be easily calculated. The main requirement is to set the standards for these materials and ascertain the proper supply from the vendors. The standard should be drawn for each material as well as the possible alternative materials. The material received should be stored in such a way that it does not get spoiled during storage. An example can be given of the corrugated board sheets. If they are stacked too high, the sheets at the lowest level get crushed and lose their cushioning property. Similarly the wood should not be stored in open space as it may deteriorate due to rain or may crack and wrap in the sun.
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| Posted : 10/27/2005 |
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