CSS: Combining the Knowledge and Experience of Thousands of Installations
* By Stephen Murdoch *
In recent months, the Conveyor and Sortation Systems (CSS) Industry Group of MHI has been working diligently on publishing and promoting materials on the training, inspection, safety and maintenance of conveyors and sortation systems. The industry’s leading providers of conveyors and sortation systems have come together to promote the market growth and effective use of their products in manufacturing, warehousing, distribution and other key markets.
One of the recent initiatives to educate the market on key features, advantages and benefits of conveyor and sortation systems is the new CSS 201 handbook, titled “Handling Applications with Conveyor and Sortation Systems” which is a follow up to their popular CSS 101 “Introduction to Conveyors and Sortation Systems.”
“Readers of the 201 document have a better idea of the type of automated equipment typically found within a distribution center. They will also learn what makes each piece of equipment unique and fundamental for optimal distribution center operation,” explained Bhaskar Chopra, director of motion control sales for MHI member Siemens.
As it stands, the CSS Industry Group combines the knowledge and experience of thousands of installations. “Combined experience in the group is in the 1000s. There is knowledge to share from thousands of installed systems. There’s also 30 of the world’s leading conveyor and sortation companies from which to reach out to for help and education. Each of these companies are committed to safety, innovation and providing the right solution to ensure peak performance,” he said.
The long-time industry supporter feels that readers of the 201 document will learn that the MHI CSS group contains member companies that touch every piece of automated machinery. “We have companies that can help readers design, optimize, stimulate and execute an optimal distribution center. If folks have ever been curious about the equipment, challenges or constraints in developing an automated distribution center, this document will serve as a way to alleviate those concerns,” concluded Chopra.
Jason Noble, sales manager for MHI member Carter Controls, believes those that read the 201 document will have a better understanding of the different variations of conveyors and sortation equipment that could be used in their respective facility. “Based on the general information previously provided in the 101 document, readers will be able to use the more technical data provided in the 201 document to further refine what may be needed in their facility operations. The 201 document can further expand one’s knowledge base to better understand the available solutions in the industry that could streamline their operations and improve efficiencies,” he said.