Last week, we discussed how UNEX bolt together, square tube modular FlowCell flow racks stack up against round pipe, and joint structures like Creform. The discussion revolved around capacity, one of the areas where FlowCell shines at 1,000 pounds per level. This week, we're comparing assembly complexity and time.
UNEX FlowCells are faster and easier to assemble than Creform flow racks. Easy assembly saves your operation time, money, and a whole lot of frustration.
Assembly
First, let's take a quick look at the assembly process for a FlowCell. FlowCell flow racks are engineered to order based on the needs of a specific operation. Posts and beams can be ordered in six-inch increments from 12" to 96". The parts arrive at the exact dimensions your operation requires. Between the posts, beams, tracks, accessories, and assembly hardware, the average FlowCell configuration consists of about 30 total components. Use a single 9/16" wrench to assemble the entire structure in approximately one man-hour.
Let's compare this to a Creform rack equivalent. The single-lane flow rack we chose to compare our FlowCell against arrives in pieces, 133 pieces, to be precise. Based on the part quantity, the tube and joint rack is almost 450% more complicated. The assembly time would mostly follow linearly at 4-5 hours.
If the Creform pipe is purchased in bulk, it must be cut to the proper length for the application. Before assembly begins, you must cut your tubes to specific dimensions. This brings up another advantage FlowCell has over tube and joint structures, FlowCells are self-squaring. Our Creform alternative FlowCell beams and posts are square tubes and meet at right angles; the flow rack can't be assembled without being square. Tube and joints can be adjusted almost infinitely- an advantage in many situations, but a detriment when trying to construct rigid, orthogonal structures. If the tubes aren't cut to precise measurements and the joints are parallel and perpendicular, you'll end up with a lopsided, un-square unstable flow rack.
The same can be said for the wheel rails typically used in tube and joint racks. Rails that are not precisely parallel will bind on containers attempting to flow forward. FlowCell, however, can utilize any UNEX carton flow product- from our universal wheel bed to our heavy-duty 1.38" steel rollers.
UNEX FlowCell flow racks are manufactured in the USA, engineered to order, and built to last with a 7-year warranty. If you're interested in adding a UNEX solution to your operation, try our free Configurator and build a FlowCell in minutes!
UNEX specializes in engineered space-saving solutions, serving several industries, including distribution, logistics, retail, and manufacturing. Learn more about how UNEX can replace unreliable tube and joint structures with sturdy FlowCells to increase productivity and maximize storage space in your facility, click here to contact us or call us at 800-334-8639.
