Why can I make such a bold assertion? The reality is that many pallet companies have not engineered their waste handling process or invested in solutions that are designed for maximum efficiency and labor reduction.
While a lot of high-tech solutions are getting the bulk of the attention for pallet and sawmill operations when it comes to improving efficiency, some low-tech products can make a big difference. These areas of your operation are easy to ignore. But improper handling of wood waste and scrap leads to safety hazards, inefficient operations, undue worker strain and clutter.
Have you ever stopped to evaluate the total impact of your waste handling processes? Or is this aspect of your operation an afterthought? Quality scrap handling hoppers and dumpsters can positively improve your bottom line without making a huge dent in your bank account.
So, what are the benefits of self-dumping hoppers? These products help save space, create a safer workshop environment and can facilitate faster cleanup to prevent clutter and the buildup of wood waste materials.
Iron Bull Manufacturing has become a major supplier of hoppers, bins and dumpsters for a wide variety of industries, including forest products and pallets. It offers a wide variety of solutions, including self-dumping hoppers and bins. All of these products are made in Marshall, Indiana and are backed by a 100% satisfaction guarantee.
Conrad Helmuth, marketing manager for Iron Bull, described, “Self-dumping hoppers are designed to increase your shop’s efficiency by allowing you to dispose of scrap quickly and easily. With the Push-n-dump or Dump-from-seat option, hoppers can be easily dumped from the operator’s seat.”
Iron Bull hoppers are designed to maximize space utilization and efficiency. They are easy to operate and reduce wasted motion and physical strain on workers. Why are the right handling and collection solutions so important? Helmuth explained, “Iron Bull hoppers streamline scrap removal, leading to better production output, a safer work environment and happier employees because your shop is more organized and clutter free.”
How do you know which solution is right for you? The process starts with evaluating your current waste flow as well as the dimensions of your current bins or hoppers. Who is involved in the process, and how many steps do they need to take to get the job done? Consider what unnecessary physical strain your current process adds to your critical workforce. How much wasted space is taken up by your existing materials handling and waste hoppers, bins and dumpsters?
Iron Bull offers low-profile hoppers, drop-bottom hoppers and custom solutions. Low-profile hoppers are designed to fit in low spaces (like under a table saw) so you don’t have to waste space and can save motion. Stretch hoppers are designed to handle long scrap that is hard to deal with. And drop-bottom hoppers have zero dead space.
Why is waste handling so critical for lean manufacturing? Helmuth added, “The less time you spend on cleanup, the more time you spend in actual production. And the more streamlined your cleanup process is, the more time you save for more useful activities. A trash hopper helps you cut down the time you spend on cleanup so your shop can become more productive!”
Are the traditional hoppers working for many pallet operations? See Sidebar.
Iron Bull has a lineup of popular items and sizes in stock and ready to ship. You may want to discuss having Iron Bull customize a solution that is tailored to the exact specifications of your building and reflects the most efficient handling process possible for your workflow. This starts with discussing your hopper’s purpose, size, design and key features with a knowledgeable Iron Bull sales consultant.
Iron Bull engineers are available to assist with sizing and other questions. The Iron Bull catalog is full of great material handling products and information. To request a catalog or for more information, call (765) 597-2480.
The Difference Between Conventional and Low-Profile Hoppers
Is it time to rethink your current waste handling process?
Conventional Hoppers
- Scrap builds up at odd angles
- Wasted “dead” space
- Doesn’t fit under cutting stations
Low-Profile Hoppers
- Easier handling of long scrap
- Doesn’t bridge
- Great for miter-saw and table saw cutting station
