Two common mistakes in cage purchasing: too few to keep the line running, or too many tying up floor space and cash. A workable quantity is derived from work-in-progress, not from guesswork.
First calculate the load per cage from part size and stacking method. Then count the parts in progress at the same time, including processing, inspection and waiting for transfer.
Third, look at the turnover cycle: the longer material stays in the loop, the more cages are in use. Cages needed = parts in progress / parts per cage, adjusted by the cycle length, plus 10-15% for maintenance and peaks.
Mixed-model production matters too: when several products run at once, cages are not fully interchangeable, so size each family separately and add up. If floor space is tight, raise the turnover frequency instead of buying more cages.
Nanjing Tongnuo helps customers size cage fleets against their material flow and takt time; call +86-25-84935609 or email 2295805280@qq.com.