The Industrial Workbench: Usability and Efficiency Defined
In a number of industrial and laboratory operations across organizations, the industrial workbench has almost become a staple in such sectors, boosting warehouse productivity by miles. The most obvious advantage of using such workbenches is the comfortable working space they offer. Apart from that, they provide protection and appropriate and reliable storage space for tools and accessories. Industrial workbenches, especially the ones that are purposefully built for tackling heavy loads are very sturdy, and have low maintenance and replacement costs. There are also provisions for adding extra shelves and drawers depending on the nature of application. (Information credit: RDM-Ind) Industrial workbenches are therefore more versatile and efficient than normal workbenches. They have an unparalleled efficiency and reliability that are suitable for the lab environment. Ergonomics plays a huge part as well, with provisions for adjustable parts to reduce the possibility of work related injuries.
Ergonomic Properties Industrial workbenches have been built with a keen eye on ergonomics. Employees’ comfort in the work environment is critical for maximum output as bad working environments can negatively affect productivity. Thus, various things are kept in mind while designing such workbenches. Factors such as comfortable handling, spacious working, height adjustable features, computer components and pivot arms all contribute to the industrial workbench being more ergonomically sound than ever. Additionally, many of these workbenches have added power points, data lines and even compressed air depending on which industry it is being used. All these properties make the workbench an ergonomical component in the industrial sector, by preventing unwanted work related injuries and accidents.
The Process of Selection The above mentioned points highlight how important and crucial industrial workbenches are to the industry. They are generally made of high grade industrial components which add to its durable properties. Of all materials, stainless steel or seasoned wood are extensively used. However, there are certain factors to be considered to ensure you’re making the right choice. These are listed below.
Always go for a reputed and experienced brand in the industry that has been operating in the area. The parts should all be licensed and certified under a major regulatory body. Always choose according to the nature of work involved. The company should adhere to all safety standards as well.
Materials Used Typically, industrial workbenches have three variants when it comes to manufacturing materials, namely stainless steel, wood and plastic laminate. Although there are other materials that are used, the above three are popular and proven to be long lasting. Each of them has their own unique qualities and advantages which we will discuss in brief below. Reasons to go for stainless steel: Stainless steel tops in industrial workbenches are extremely durable and built for the purpose. For these reasons, they are mainly employed in the maintenance or repair sectors like in Shop work, repairs and assembly operations. The benefits are listed below.
Scratch and Corrosion Resistant Protection against the effects of most chemicals and solvents Impact resistance is high. The ability to support heavy loads and machinery. Provisions for repainting.
Reasons to go for Plastic Laminate: In industrial sectors where operations involve working with strong chemicals or acidic substances. Even in cases where a lot of oil, liquid, solvents or similar substances are used, plastic laminate surfaces have the qualities to withstand any damage caused by them. Below are the advantages.
Resistant to Oils and solvents Resistant to chemical reactions Scratch resistant Maintenance is less laborious and easier. High Aesthetic Appeal
Reasons to go for seasoned wood or other wood based materials: Wood adds an otherworldly aesthetic appeal when used in furniture, and industrial work benches are no exception. Options include hardwood, laminated wood, wood and steel combos among others. Primarily used in industries where there isn’t a heavy load, wood surfaces are great for tool cribs, shop management, mechanics, and a host of other medium assembly operations. Here are the benefits in some small simple points.
Unparalleled Aesthetic look and feel Relatively high impact resistance Scratch able surfaces but with a great deal of durability Wood tops can be refurnished and sanded over time.
Reasons Why Industrial Workbenches are the solution As industrial workbenches are a crucial component of the industrial sector, it has a host of advantages for any company that uses them. These are summarized below.
1. It creates a comfortable work environment: Industrial work environments always involve heavy workloads and revolve around productivity and efficiency at all times. Thus, to ensure that all workers are performing at their maximum capacity, the work environment involved should be comfortable while being functional at the same time. Adjustable workbenches are available which are designed with the worker’s ergonomics in mind. These prevent work related injuries and accidents which can have a negative impact on the productivity. 2. It is highly durable: Durability is a prerequisite of industrial workbenches as their work involves dealing with medium to heavy workloads. Almost all variants can withstand the rigors of everyday industrial operations, such as exposure to harmful chemicals or withstanding high temperatures. 3. Comparatively low maintenance: Because materials like stainless steel, laminates and wood are used, industrial workbenches are versatile and reliable. They require much less maintenance as compared to other pieces of industrial furniture. Thus, maintenance or repair costs are waived off. 4. Different features available: Industrial workbenches come with a variety of components and features to better adapt to the nature of work in a particular industry. The ability to integrate or install accessories like power lines, data lines, computerized arms and pivots make it a diverse and versatile industrial component.
Conclusion In simple words, laboratories and industrial sectors alike use workbenches to get their work done quickly, easily and efficiently. Their unique properties, which combine durability, efficiency and reliability is what makes it one of the most widely used furniture in this sector.