Manufacturing dispensers are used in several places throughout the factory automation process. Eagle Technologies creates dispensing systems for use in various industries, from automotive to food processing, including pharmaceuticals. Keeping dispenser efficiency high is the goal, one that you can reach by taking a few cues from the pharmacy.

In the pharmaceutical industry, drug dispensers are an important part of the pharmacy. They are designed to dispense the appropriate amounts of each drug. Failure to do so can be harmful to the consumer, so the pharmaceutical industry places much time and effort into ensuring that the dispensers work properly. The lessons learned, especially in dispenser efficiency, can be used in all industries that use dispensers as part of their manufacturing process.

1. Consider your capacity. Dispensers place accurate amounts of liquid and solid materials onto the product being made. Refilling them takes time out of the process. Pharmacists place the drugs frequently requested drugs in larger dispensers. This cuts down on the number of dispenser refills, which results in higher production. You can do the same with your dispensers.
2. Monitor usage. Determine which materials are used less frequently. Place them in small dispensers to avoid waste (or spoilage in the food industry) from sitting unused. Pharmacies do this with perishable medications. Measuring the amount of materials that will be used in one day is another way to reduce waste and increase efficiency.
3. Maintain regularly. Improper maintenance can lead to equipment that runs slow and even suffer frequent breakdowns. Cleaning the dispensers clears out obstructions and helps you catch the signs of mechanical failure before they become problematic.
4. Make labels distinct and clear. Errors are another enemy of efficiency. In the pharmacy, an error can result in harm to the customers and at the very least a shutdown until the problem is rectified. The same scenario occurs in factory automation, resulting in line shutdown and maintenance, depending on the materials involved.
5. Check safety controls. Another means of increasing efficiency is to check the safety controls on the equipment. The valves and switches are there to control the pressure and flow of the materials. When at the proper setting, the dispenser is at its most efficient. Improperly set controls can lead to machine malfunctions and delays.

The pharmacy uses factory automation in a way that is not very different from usage on the factory floor. To get the best usage out of your Eagle Technologies dispensers, try thinking like a pharmacist.