Non-Automotive Industries Pursue Lean Material Flow

Domestic automotive producers continue to install lean material handling systems as they scramble to improve operations primarily in their new “Greenfield” facilities.  But there is a significant upswing in demand for lean systems from other industries.  These changes are taking place in mostly “Brownfield” facilities across the U.S.  Rather than complete plant conversions, lean material flow solutions are being installed on an application by application basis as budgets and on-going production allow. 

Electronics Manufacturer – Producing large volumes of CDs and DVDs required that product be moved from production conveyor lines in the plant w/o forklifts using special elevated, segmented roller deck carts.   Furniture Manufacturer & Distribution - Large flat deck, low noise, ergonomically designed industrial carts helped this company safely pick furniture from high bay warehouse racks and place directly in the truck. Heating & Air Conditioning –To easily move small and bulk parts through tight aisles to assembly positions, this leading HVAC producer chose rotational flat deck industrial carts w/under frame lift pockets.   Motion & Control Technology Manufacturer – Producing a wide variety of industrial products this major global company is using a combination of standard and custom designed industrial carts and lifts to implement a lean material flow solution. Defense Contractor – Leading producer of combat vehicles uses modified pivot point caster steer delivery carts to move small parts in multiple trains from market to assembly positions in three buildings. Agriculture & Equipment Manufacturer - Oversized flat deck industrial carts move large WIP sub-assemblies between build cell, paint staging and final shipping w/o towlines, conveyors or forklifts. When complete, the industrial cart is delivered to a painting station where the product is painted and staged for shipping.   Commercial Lighting Fixture Manufacturer – This large vertically integrated producer of high quality lighting fixtures chose a lean material flow approach as a result of a Kaizen event to reduce handling costs.  They use a variety of standard cart designs