What is CMMS?
Organizations of all varieties rely on modern technology in their processes to maintain an efficient and effective operation. Computerized maintenance management systems (CMMS) provide a tech-based solution which allows for access to a wealth of information.
What Are CMMS Tags Used For?
CMMS systems are utilized by companies of nearly every industry. These platforms provide various tools depending on industry and organizational need.
A CMMS system can provide real-time information to decision makers, as well as front-line employees.
These systems are typically used to monitor the status and progress of repairs and other maintenance on assets. This includes equipment, tools, and other machinery.
Other computer based asset platforms allow warehouses to better track and manage their inventory.
For example, inventory can be affixed with a barcode tag or label, which is then scanned into the system. The item is scanned at each point in the process. This means any given item can be traced back to its origin.
From a big picture viewpoint, decision makers can use this data to see which parts of the process may take longer than others, and help to further understand and quantify bottlenecks.
Advanced systems can even automate processes such as re-ordering stock when inventory levels get to a selected level. This can save not only time, but help speed up the process overall.
CMMS Tags
In order to incorporate an asset into a computer system, it must be scanned using a barcode. Tags and labels are used to affix assets with a scannable barcode.
This turns any normal asset into a traceable one. From basic inventory stock to large scale equipment and tools, anything worth tracking can be included using these systems.
Other Benefits
Loss Prevention
Outside of improving efficiency, computer asset management systems also provide the added benefit of loss prevention. Assets which are labeled with barcodes are very hard to lose, as they are tracked throughout every step of an organization’s process.
Location data is very easy to find, allowing workers to source an item even in a hectic facility. Not only does this greatly reduce the risk of losing stock or products, but also serves as a major deterrent to potential theft.
Industries
Asset management systems are becoming more and more prevalent in the modern supply chain. This includes everything from warehouses to manufacturing facilities.
There is tremendous upside in access to more information, as well as better traceability of expensive assets.
Some examples of industries which rely on CMMS asset tags include:
- Warehousing
- Construction
- Shipyards
- Oil & Gas
- Manufacturing
- Transportation
- And Many More
Marking Processes for CMMS Tags and Labels
Photo Anodization
Photo anodization is the preferred marking method for durable CMMS tags. The process embeds a custom design beneath strong layers of aluminum material.
Durability is crucial when marking assets in an industrial environment, as wear and tear can easily destroy a barcode. If an asset is not able to be scanned, it must be entered into a system manually, which greatly reduces the benefit.
Photo anodized labels can include any type of 1D or 2D barcodes, including:
- QR Codes
- UPC Codes
- Data Matrix
- And More
In addition, any other data needed on the tag can be included, such as a company logo or human readable information (HRI).
Printing
For certain applications, long term durability is not the biggest concern. In these instances, printed labels are often a more economical solution. These decals can include custom barcodes as well as other information, printed on a polyester or vinyl substrate.
Printed labels can adhere to nearly any surface, offering much versatility in their usage. In addition, color can be added to these designs for color coding or stand-out designs.
Wrap-Up
CMMS systems provide organizations with the ability to track and improve their asset maintenance and overall operational efficiency.
Metal tags and printed labels offer a simple but effective method for incorporating assets into these systems.
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