Handling Long Objects in Materials Management

Long Objects in Materials Handling

• Long objects are defined as anything exceeding six feet in length, with a relatively small girth compared to its length.
• The majority of long objects are rigid and strong, often cylindrical (solid or hollow), rectangular, or irregularly shaped.
• Long objects can be found in industries such as steel fabrication, petroleum production and refining, public utilities, and logging.

Handling Long Objects

• Long objects can be handled using various methods, including:
  • Lifting from underneath with forks, such as those on a lift truck.
  • Supporting them on their ends like pipes and rods.
  • Grasping with slings and hooks at both ends.
  • Lifting with a clamp at one end.
  • Encircling with a sling or slings.
  • Clamping around their girth.
  • Elevating with a magnet, if the material is suitable.

Transporting Long Objects

• Trucks:
  • Manually propelled trucks are used commonly within plants, mills, and warehouses.
  • Heavier items are often placed using a grab from overhead equipment.
• Railroads:
  • Both industrial and standard-gage railroads are used for transporting long objects over longer routes.
  • Open-top cars, such as gondolas and flat cars, are used for this purpose.

Elevating Long Objects

• Below-the-hook accessories are necessary for lifting and lowering long objects vertically using hand and electric hoists.

Conveying Long Objects

• Metal chutes are not suitable for long distances when handling pipes and bar stock, but can be used for lumber due to the higher friction between wood and metal.
• Gravity and powered rollers are effective for smooth-surfaced long objects, but not for pipes with flanges or collars.
• Rollers can be straight, concave, or in the form of a "V".
• Spring-mounted rollers absorb shocks when heavy loads are deposited on them.

Handling Long Objects Around Curves

• Conveyors are primarily designed for straight lines, but slight deviations are possible depending on conveyor width and object length.
• Overhead chain trolley conveyors and monorails offer greater flexibility in travel paths.

This quiz explores the definitions and handling techniques for long objects in various industries. It covers methods for lifting, supporting, and transporting these objects safely and efficiently. Understanding these principles is essential for effective materials handling in sectors like steel fabrication and logging.