Title: Linear barcodes, direct part marking and RFID for material handling applications

Authors: Athanasios Klonis, Farhad Nabhani

Addresses: School of Science and Technology, University of Teesside, Middlesbrough, TS1 3BA, UK. ' School of Science and Technology, University of Teesside, Middlesbrough, TS1 3BA, UK

Abstract: Traceability of parts is crucial for the effective operation of production processes. Automatic identification and data collection (AIDC) technologies have been widely used to improve availability of parts and tools. This research study examines the applicability of commonly used AIDC technologies, barcodes, direct part marking and RFID in traceability applications. The research demonstrated that LF passive RFID tags offer a superior traceability solution for metallic parts exposed to corrosive environments. Although the initial cost for implementing RFID surpasses barcodes and direct part marking, the technology is more suitable for the applications requiring readability under harsh conditions. It is anticipated that the results of this study will help potential adopters of AIDC assess the advantages and disadvantages of each technology in respect to their applications.

Keywords: radio frequency identification; RFID; barcodes; direct part marking; DPM; tool management; offshore industry; msaterials handling; part traceability; automatic identification; data collection; AIDC.

DOI: 10.1504/IJMTM.2010.035432

International Journal of Manufacturing Technology and Management, 2010 Vol.21 No.3/4, pp.208 - 224

Published online: 30 Sep 2010 *

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