Certain things keep a manufacturing plant running smoothly – inventory management software, safety gear, qualified personnel, and of course the right equipment. When it comes to manufacturing equipment, purchasing the right one is the difference between success and failure for a manufacturing plant as the right equipment means increased efficiency, reduced downtime, improved product quality, and ultimately greater profits. On the other hand, purchasing the wrong equipment means costly repairs, maintenance, and downtime, as well as lower productivity and product quality which affects profits.

So here are some key factors to consider when purchasing manufacturing equipment for the right results.

Research Different Manufacturers and Models

Like with most things, you don’t want to commit to the very first piece of machinery you see. Otherwise, you’ll be limiting yourself from exploring other options that may be better suited for the plant’s needs. Instead, it’s best to compare not just different manufacturers, or models but also prices and vendors.

Here are some tips for your research:

• Use online resources. Check out manufacturer websites, online forums, and review websites to learn more about different models and their features, benefits, and drawbacks
• Attend trade shows and conferences to see different equipment models in action and to talk to manufacturers directly
• Reach out to other industry professionals, colleagues, or business partners who have experience in purchasing similar equipment and ask for their recommendations and feedback

Prioritize Safety Features

Unfortunately, manufacturing plants can be very unsafe spaces, and one of the reasons this is the case is unsafe equipment. So, you want to purchase machinery with highly effective safety features to avoid accidents, injuries, fatalities, fines, and even lawsuits.

Look for:

• Emergency stop buttons that allow operators to shut down the equipment quickly in case of an emergency
• Guards and barriers that prevent operators from coming into contact with moving parts, hot surfaces, or other hazards
• Automatic shut-off systems that detect potential hazards, such as overloading or overheating, and automatically shut down the equipment to prevent damage or injury
• Lockout/tag-out systems that ensure equipment is de-energized and isolated before maintenance or repair work is carried out to prevent accidental start-up

Energy Efficiency

Due to regulatory changes and brand reputation, energy efficiency is increasingly becoming a priority in the manufacturing industry. Plus, it’s cost-saving.

ENERGY STAR® certification is given to products that adhere to stringent energy efficiency standards established by the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). You can also compare the energy consumption of each model by looking at the Energy Guide label or the equipment’s technical specifications to find products that are more energy efficient than others.

You can also check directly with manufacturers to see if they offer energy-efficient equipment options.

Consider Training and Support

Even automated equipment requires some help from personnel for things like programming & setup and troubleshooting. So you want to keep training and support in mind when shopping for new plant machinery.

Look for equipment that comes with comprehensive training and support so that employees can operate and maintain it effectively for the best performance and long-term use.

By considering these factors, you can select the right manufacturing equipment that will help to keep your plant running smoothly and efficiently, and ultimately lead to more profits.