Getting ready to have new equipment installed in your plant? Installing new equipment, whether in a brand-new production line or an existing line, can be challenging. To make the process as easy as possible and to save yourself time and money by decreasing the potential for downtime, ask the following questions before any new equipment installation.

1. Communicate With Key Players

Communication is crucial if you want your packaging machine installation to go smoothly. You’ll want to keep in touch with the project manager provided by your supplier in the Philippines. Ask them about what you need to accomplish or have on hand before your new packaging machine is installed.

You may consult your supplier about a backup plan in case the installation takes longer than expected. Also, give them a time frame for the installation.

Make sure that all personnel know about the installation, as it may affect production for a day or so. Inform any involved individuals at least a week in advance in case they have any concerns or questions to raise.

2. Schedule Safety Training

A new packaging machine certainly comes with its own safety precautions that all personnel should know. Be sure to discuss safety training with your supplier. Take note that training sessions may take place a day before installation to prevent delays.

3. Determine Labor Requirements

Your supplier may need extra help during the packaging machine installation. Ask if they’d like you to provide any additional personnel to be sure. Don’t forget to inform them of any Philippine labor agreements in place, such as if your company is a union shop or closed shop firm.

4. Secure Necessary Utilities

Does your new packaging machine require certain power sources or utilities? Ensure that these are all in place before the installation. These include:

• • • Electrical Power. Check your machine’s voltage, current, and power ratings.
    • Compressed Air. Pneumatic equipment will come with psi or SCFM requirements.
    • Dedusting Equipment. Some machines, like those in pharmaceutical applications, need matching dedusters to keep products clean.
    • Communication Cables. Determine whether your machine needs ethernet cables or other types of connectivity.
    • Lighting. Be sure that there is ample light for anyone using or fixing the machine.

5. Reinforce as Needed

The structure of your facility should be able to support the weight of your new packaging machine. Ask your supplier for an exact figure. Then, determine whether the machine will exert extra forces during operation. For example, robots require an additional 20 cm of floor thickness because of their movements. Consider anchorage to stabilize fast-moving machines as well.

6. Clear Space for the Machine

You need to move the machine from the unloading dock to its new location for installation to begin! Check for any tight fits or roadblocks that may cause inconvenience. If the packaging machine will be moved using a forklift, be sure that the forklift operator has the training and certification for the job.

Also, some existing equipment may have to removed before the new packaging machine is installed. Don’t forget to power it down and disconnect its utilities beforehand.

7. Prepare the Rest of the Production Line

Testing is also important for any packaging machine installation. Once the new machine is in place, be sure that all upstream and downstream equipment are online and ready for a test run. You might need to prepare a certain amount of test product and consumables for this.

8. Schedule a Follow-Up

It’s advisable to ask the assigned technician for a follow-up visit after the installation, even before the installation itself. This can reduce your employees’ learning curve when working with the new packaging machine.

Don’t be afraid to ask more questions during the follow-up visit! Any good technician and equipment supplier in the Philippines will gladly provide you with the support you need for your company to achieve its production goals.