Better use of space
June 1st 2010

Electrical switch manufacturer Lorlin Electronics is making better use of available space at its factory in Littlehampton thanks to a Mezz Lift supplied by Penny Hydraulics to transfer kits and finished items between ground floor stores and mezzanine production areas.

Lorlin Electronics has manufactured a range of electrical potentiometers and switches since the 1960s.When some of its leases came to an end recently the company decided to consolidate two existing factories on to a single site in Littlehampton. The UK assembly operation was relocated onto the existing mezzanine as part of the transformation.

Component kits prepared in the stores are loaded onto specially built trolleys and transferred to the assembly area.When both were on the same floor this was a simple process and the trolleys were sufficient to handle everything.

Although the components and assemblies are relatively light, relocating operations to the mezzanine meant that some lifting or carrying was required. Lorlin originally relied on a manual process but recognised that some form of mechanical assistance offered a better long term solution.

The company reviewed a number of potential options. Scissor lifts were considered too expensive and were generally designed for larger loads than the component kits. Powered conveyors were more cost effective but took up too much space and required a lot of safety guarding. The company narrowed its choice to a goods lift and eventually selected the Mezz Lift.

After a site survey and working to Lorlins overall specification Penny Hydraulics installed the Mezz Lift in a corner of the production area where it can be accessed easily while being fully enclosed for safety.

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