Starting a new manufacturing business can be an exciting time, and the potential profits achievable from producing your own goods can be substantial. If you have a strong idea that has a viable proven market, manufacturing is one of the most lucrative sectors to enter.
However, before going down the road of starting a manufacturing firm, there are some key points to consider to maximise your chances of success – not least of which is thinking about the equipment you’re going to need.
While all companies are different and your particular requirements may vary depending on the specific types of goods you intend to produce, below are some of the more common items you should consider to make your manufacturing operation as streamlined as possible and get the highest Return on Investment (ROI).
Conveyor belts
Perhaps the most famous example of conveyor belt production is that of Henry Ford’s assembly line technique which successfully cut the manufacturing time of a car from over 12 hours to a little over an hour and a half. While Ford is often attributed with inventing the production line concept, in truth, all he did was take a long-proven idea and improve it. However, the production line methodology remains in wide use today.
A conveyor belt system is a vital part of almost all manufacturing processes as it allows goods to be moved seamlessly from one stage of production to another and provides a logical flow to the creative operations. Also, while the cost of a conveyor system might seem high at the start, the initial outlay will soon pay for itself in terms of freeing up time and resources.
Laser cutting machines
Laser cutting machines have a multitude of uses in manufacturing, from shaping components to creating branded materials like signage, vehicle livery or engravings. Modern laser cutter technology is now more versatile and affordable than ever and investing in a cutting machine will reduce your overhead by removing the need to outsource these vital tasks to third-party providers.
Storage tanks
Storing components and materials safely, economically and with the smallest footprint possible will improve your production facility and help streamline your production process. Before investing, you’ll need to consider the precise characteristics of the materials you intend to stockpile and pick tanks made from an appropriate substance (for example, steel, aluminium, plastic tanks, etc.).
Electrical generators
Unfortunately, power shortages or outages can and do happen, and, in a production facility, the results of losing energy can prove disastrous – or, worse yet, might even be dangerous. Having a backup source of power is vital to protect your staff and your products in case the power goes off unexpectedly.
Shredders
Investing in a shredder will allow you to efficiently dispose of waste products while also freeing up extra space that might otherwise be taken up by waste materials. Also, if you think ahead and contact a recycling company, you might be able to earn back a little of the outlay by selling your ‘waste’ product that could potentially be put to other uses.
