SSI SCHÄFER News

IMHX Schaefer Prize Draw

Tue, 12 Mar 2013 16:39:00 +0100

For the chance to win tickets to Brands Hatch and weekend overnight accommodation simply drop your business card off at the SSI Schaefer stand. Please refer to the Prize Draw Rules in the SSI Schaefer Stand Guide or see below for a full list of terms and conditions. Prize Draw Rules Free Prize Draw to take place at 14.00 on Friday 22nd March 2013 Deadline for entry 13.00 on Friday 22nd March 2013 PRIZE: Gold Ticket for a family of 4 to be used as the winner sees fit and one overnight stay in a local hotel. By participating you agree to the requirements set out in all promotional materials and the following General Terms and Conditions. Open to residents of the UK, unless otherwise stated. Not open to employees (or their immediate families) of SSI Schaefer or its subsidiaries or to Suppliers, competitors and IMHX exhibitors. Entrants must be over 18. The promoter reserves the right to request proof of identity or to verify eligibility conditions. Maximum one entry per person unless otherwise stated. Entries via agents or third parties or the use of multiple identities and email addresses are not permitted. Entries must be completed on IMHX stand number N100 SSI Schaefer by the closing date and time stated above. Winners will be selected in a random draw. The promoter reserves the right to disqualify late, illegible or invalid entries. To enter we will ask you to submit your business card. Your personal details will be used in accordance with the current published Privacy Policy and may be used for marketing purposes. If the prize cannot be distributed or is returned as undelivered the promoter reserves the right to select an alternative winner or to give the prize to charity. If we require a response before we award any prize and no response is received after we have made reasonable efforts to make contact, the Promoter reserves the right to withdraw prize entitlement and award the prize to someone else. The Promoter has no responsibility to anyone who has not responded. No cash or other alternative prizes are available, except that in the event of circumstances outside of its control the Promoter reserves the right to substitute a similar prize of equal or greater value. Prizes cannot be transferred or sold by winners. The Promoter has arranged this Promotion in good faith but, to the fullest extent allowed by law, accepts no responsibility for loss or damages as a result of anyone participating in the Promotion or any aspect of any prize awarded. Your legal rights as a consumer are not affected. The Promoter reserves the right to modify, suspend, cancel or terminate the promotion or extend or resume the entry period or disqualify any participant at any time without giving advance notice and will do so if it cannot be guaranteed that the promotion can be carried out fairly or correctly for technical, legal or other reasons or if the Promoter suspects that any person has been manipulating entries or the results or has acted unethically in any other way. If we require a response before awarding any prize and no response is received within a reasonable period of time, we reserve the right to withdraw the prize entitlement and will award the prize to a substitute winner drawn at the same time as the first name(s) selected. Any prize which is returned as undelivered will be used for another prize draw or given to charity. The winner agrees to take part in publicity in connection with the prize draw. If a prize is unclaimed after reasonable efforts have been made to contact the winner the promoter will be entitled to dispose of the prize as it sees fit without any liability to the winner for doing so. The promoter reserves the right to alter, amend or foreclose the promotion without prior notice. By entering this prize draw, entrants agree to be bound by these terms and conditions. Email safety: In the event that we wish to contact you in connection with your entry we will do so via an email ending in ssi-uk.co.uk or by phone with a follow up e-mail. Any email which appears to come from SSIU Schaefer, but using a different ending (e.g. hotmail.com, yahoo.com etc) should be treated with suspicion and forwarded to Customer Services. DO NOT respond or act on any e-mail if you are not sure that it comes from SSI Schaefer. If you are in any doubt please contact Customer Services. Winners may be required to participate in reasonable related publicity without further payment or permission. The Promoter may publish first name, surname initial, age and/or town/city. For information regarding the names of the winners (and, if applicable, their winning entries) email Customer Services quoting the name of the prize draw or competition. The Promoter’s decision is final and we reserve the right not to correspond on any matter. The laws of England apply and any disputes will be dealt with in the English courts only. Travel and accommodation are not included unless otherwise stated on the competition page.

Schaefer’s Orbiter is once again making an appearance at IMHX

Mon, 25 Mar 2013 08:06:00 +0100

Allowing for high density storage with channels in excess of 20 pallets in depth with rapid availability of the selected pallets on demand using selective racks mounted on mobile bases, the Orbiter increases capacity over traditional drive-in storage methods which can be operated in either First in Last Out or First in First Out regimes.State of the art lifting mechanics and Operative Protection Docking Stations, complete with a unique power supply allows the Orbiter to be recharged each time it enters the docking station, while long life power caps allow the Orbiter to be used in deep freeze environments without loss of power or operational efficiency. Provided as a two piece set, the easy to use Schaefer Orbiter is locked safely into the docking station at all times allowing for the safe movement from one aisle to another. When the Orbiter is required in a specific channel, a standard fork-lift picks up the docking station with the Orbiter and places the device into place at the front of the supporting racking system – the Orbiter’s storage and retrieval commands are then transmitted via radio frequency using a hand-held remote control in the cab of the fork lift operator.

SSI Schaefer to Showcase Harrods Installation at IMHX

Tue, 05 Mar 2013 17:18:00 +0100

Visitors wanting to get a detailed behind the scenes look at Harrods new Thames Valley Distribution Centre in Thatcham, Berkshire, should take a seat in the IMHX Case Study theatre on Wednesday 20 March at 3pm. The case study session, presented by SSI Schaefer, will cover the complete fit-out of Harrods new site focusing on project objectives, challenges, automated and bespoke storage solutions including details on the latest extended warehouse management software, SAP- EWM. Following a seamless transition from its former site in Osterley, West London, the 346,000 sq ft facility fitted out by SSI Schaefer is now fully operational and the sole UK distribution centre for the Knightsbridge store and other outlets. Together with the team from Harrods, SSI Schaefer ensured the facility was fully operational without impacting on service within a 15 month time frame. Simon Finch, Deputy Director, Distribution, Harrods, said: “From the outset of this project we were looking for a turnkey supplier that could project manage the entire fit-out of the warehouse, and we found this in SSI Schaefer. Their expertise in systems integration, design, installation, delivery and on-going service and maintenance support proved to be a winning formula for such a relocation project of this size.” The whole site is fitted out with the very latest materials handling equipment enabling the faster movement of goods with increased replenishment accuracy and frequency as well as much greater storage capacity - holding over 10,000 product lines, many more SKUs are cross-docked and delivered into London continually throughout each and every day. To kick things off SSI Schaefer immediately installed narrow aisle pallet racking that provided instant additional storage capacity but also ticked the box to accommodate future sales and growth of the business as and when required. A fully integrated and automated storage, handling and picking system was then designed, supplied and installed. The innovative system comprises a four aisle miniload crane system servicing 43,000 tote storage locations, transport, replenishment and picking conveyors with an automatic labeling system, automated goods to man workstations with pick-to-tote- technology, forklift control system, medium item shelving, man up order picking in very narrow aisle (VNA) pallet racking to 12 metres, unique big ticket high bay racking integrated with special large product order picker machines, process area workstations for inbound stock handling and outbound store preparation, 10,000 store delivery totes and handling equipment. SSI Schaefer also has sole responsibility for the centre’s entire Warehouse Management System which is fitted out with SAP’s latest software, EWM – Extended Warehouse Management – this crucial role for the smooth running of the site was given to SSI Schaefer due to their in-house expertise and ability to configure and deploy EWM. The system provides Harrods with real-time information and a high level of process and inventories transparency enabling precise planning of warehouse steps as well as efficient distribution and storage processes, managing both the manual and automated processes. The centre, which has achieved an excellent rating from BREEAM highlighting the centre’s excellent energy performance and recycling facilities, was opened by Michael Ward, Managing Director of Harrods and the leader of Thatcham Council, Cllr John Boyd with Jaap Vos, Director of SSI Schaefer UK in attendance. The project represents a major investment for Harrods and a long term commitment to SSI Schaefer who will provide on-site resident maintenance.

SSI Schaefer to showcase championship racing car at IMHX

Mon, 25 Feb 2013 11:07:00 +0100

As the official partner of Volkswagen Motorsport in the 2012 Volkswagen Scirocco R-Cup, SSI Schaefer will present the yellow branded Scirocco at IMHX that raced at Brands Hatch alongside former Formula One World Champion, Damon Hill. The UK leg of the tournament, the third race out of eight, saw Jonas Giesler, driving the yellow Schaefer branded Scirocco, take second place behind more experienced driver Ola Nilsson. After a nail-biting 25 laps Nilsson relegated the young German driver Giesler, who had started from pole, and his fellow countryman Jann-Hendrik Ubben, to the other podium places. One of the race victims was Legends entrant Damon Hill who, after an incident of body contact, was forced to retire from the race with a technical defect after only seven laps. The 1996 Formula One World Champion, Damon Hill, who ended his motorsport career almost 13 years ago, made a one-off comeback in the Volkswagen Scirocco R-Cup for the benefit of his children’s charity ‘The Halow Project’ for which Volkswagen Motorsport Director Jost Capito presented a cheque to the value of 10,000 euros. The car will be on display throughout the four-day IMHX show situated outside the main entrance to Hall 18.

Picture Perfect from SSI Schaefer at IMHX

Wed, 30 Jan 2013 11:15:00 +0100

Visitors to IMHX can expect the complete works from SSI Schaefer. The red carpet is literally being rolled out to welcome all guests to the impressive 380 sq metre stand that will not only feature two brand new products to the UK market but will also capture Schaefer’s complete product range and capabilities. Two exciting and innovative products new to the UK market, the LogiMat and the Schaefer Auto Cruiser (SAC) from SSI Schaefer, are certain to attract some attention. The LogiMat, standing at six metres high, is a goods-to-man picking, space-saving, vertical lift storage system ideal for small parts storage. It offers high order picking accuracy and will be part of an interactive live demonstration of parts picking, transport and assembly. The SAC is a remarkable and innovative system specifically designed to bridge the gap between forklift transport and traditional conveyor technology – it’s an extremely competitive and flexible transport system for low to average throughput. SSI Schaefer will also be showcasing its brand new QX plastic container series - a container solution providing excellent compatibility with automated and robotic handling systems. With a standard footprint of 600 x 500mm, the QX works well within the UK Pallet pool offering greater internal storage capacity for larger components. As one of the largest producers of plastic containers SSI Schaefer has always been at the forefront of container handling systems which is why visitors will get to view a scaled demo unit of an ‘up-to-the-minute’ roller and belt conveying system using the very latest conveyor technology combining picking with container and carton transport. A full size powered mobile racking working demonstration using the most recent market safety and control technology will be on display. Providing a cost effective solution for high density storage of palletised goods, mobile racking systems can be configured to handle both standard industrial and Euro pallet sizes. Schaefer’s Orbiter is once again making an appearance – a deep pallet, high density storage and retrieval system leading the way providing safe and controllable technology. State of the art lifting mechanics and Operative Protection Docking Station, complete with unique Power Cap technology allows the Orbiter to be recharged each time it enters the docking station ensuring optimum efficiency gains. IT specialists will be on hand to offer expert advice and to demonstrate WAMAS, the very latest technology in warehouse management and warehouse control systems including SAP integration for both manual and automated operations. The latest design in unique bolt and clip free adjustable R3000 shelving will be on the stand giving visitors a close up viewing of how the system can be configured to support multiple floor levels without the need for additional costly steelwork. A ‘project wall’ will feature examples of automated high bay pallet storage illustrating the advantages and benefits associated with the automated storage and retrieval of palletised products as well as combined picking and storage systems across a wide range of industries. Finally, an ergonomic industrial assembly workstation fully integrated with small parts storage, picking and transport system will be on display designed to increase efficiency in a host of different production environments.

SSI Schaefer showcase LogiMat and AutoCruiser at IMHX

Mon, 14 Jan 2013 11:27:00 +0100

Two exciting and innovative products new to the UK market, the LogiMat and AutoCruiser from SSI Schaefer, will be on show at this year’s IMHX. The LogiMat, a goods-to-man picking, space-saving, vertical lift storage system ideal for small parts storage offering a high order picking performance, will be part of an interactive live demonstration of parts picking, transport and assembly for visitors at the show. An alternative to storing and order picking small parts in a compact and ergonomic way, the LogiMat occupies only a small footprint providing 90% storage space saving in comparison to conventional static solutions. Not only does it provide reduced energy costs, its modular design allows the system to be fully adjustable to individual requirements providing numerous design options with the flexibility to extend in the future. The design can be compared to an oversized drawer cabinet with two stacks of trays (one in the front and one in the rear) and between those stacks operates a lift, which extracts individual trays as required and delivers them to the service window. With minimized order picking errors through its computer-controlled processes, Schaefer’s LogiSoft software can also be combined or integrated into an existing warehouse management system with ease. The Schaefer Auto Cruiser (SAC) unveiled in Europe during 2011 will be on show at IMHX for the first time in the UK. This remarkable and innovative system specifically designed to bridge the gap between forklift transport and traditional conveyor technology is an extremely competitive and flexible transport system for low to average throughput. Perfect for industrial manufacturing and assembly operations, it is suitable for both short and long distance transport and designed to hold loads of 1g up to 30 kg – however, the system can be configured for heavier loads if needed. All components, including scales, rails, loading stations, curves, switches and turn tables are supplied pre-installed, therefore allowing the SAC to be put into operation immediately – additional infrastructure is not required, a simple electricity socket is sufficient. SSI Schaefer’s stand will be packed full of other innovative solutions designed to meet and exceed the storage, order picking and handling demands of today’s competitive logistics industry. Traditional solution routes will stand alongside cutting edge automated systems, both offering rapid returns on investment, all manufactured within the SSI Schaefer Group.

Destination IMHX, Destination Schaefer

Wed, 28 Nov 2012 11:20:00 +0100

Visitors after the X factor at IMHX should look no further than SSI Schaefer for inspiration. Offering an eye-catching stand that will draw the crowds in, SSI Schaefer will be looking after its guests within the impressive hospitality lounge and bar area dedicated to all stand visitors – providing both the ideal networking spot and opportunity to get to know the faces ‘behind the scenes’ that contribute to Schaefer’s leading reputation within the UK materials handling industry. Not only will the stand be packed full of innovative solutions designed to meet and exceed the storage, order picking and handling demands of today’s competitive logistics industry, SSI Schaefer’s experienced sales and design teams will be on hand to discuss existing and future business challenges. Providing total integrated support to each and every one of its customers, SSI Schaefer’s team of top industry specialists use their skills and knowledge of combined standard storage and automation products to offer the widest range of possible solutions to any sector in the market, from Retail to Defence, Pharmaceutical to Education and Automotive to Food. Jaap Vos, Director, SSI Schaefer UK, says: “Whilst there are many organisations that actively work in this area only a few actually manufacture the diverse range of products and systems needed to satisfy the demands of this expanding industry. “SSI Schaefer has the ability to provide every aspect of project management, from planning and design, through to consultation and implementation. IMHX is the ideal platform for existing and new customers to view firsthand the array of product and system solutions available to them backed up by a team of industry specialists.” Traditional solution routes will stand alongside cutting edge automated systems, both offering rapid returns on investment, all manufactured within the SSI Schaefer Group.

Behind the Scenes at Teva with SSI Schaefer

Wed, 28 Nov 2012 11:09:00 +0100

Smart Storage and Applied Automation – this was the overriding theme at SSI Schaefer’s recent regional event hosted at Teva UK in Castleford, West Yorkshire. Delegates not only heard the numerous advantages of upgrading their existing logistics operations when combining low level automation with more efficient smart storage systems but they got the unique opportunity to take a ‘behind the scenes’ look at Teva’s own automated distribution centre. Teva, part of one of the top 20 pharmaceutical companies in the world and the UK’s leading generic manufacturer of pharmaceutical goods despatching over four million items per day, opened its doors to show fellow industry leaders how they had successfully migrated from a labour intensive manual warehousing operation to a new automated distribution centre with pretty impressive results. With the help of SSI Schaefer, Teva UK significantly increased its storage capacity, improved overall picking performance and sharpened efficiency and customer service levels all whilst reducing labour overheads. Guests were given guided tours of Teva’s site and were able to see firsthand the Automated Storage and Retrieval System (ASRS) with three cranes and 3,500 single deep storage locations that was designed and installed by SSI Schaefer alongside pallet racking complete with 21,000 storage locations, a Pallet Conveyor System, a 78 sort lane Tote Conveyor System and a Pick-by-Light System with 13 pick stations and 910 locations. The whole operation is monitored and managed by SSI Schaefer’s WAMAS® C Warehouse Control System. Items are picked using three different options; full pallets are selected from the pallet racking, full cartons from the ASRS and single items from the pick-by light system. Ergonomically designed pick stations equipped with hydraulic pallet lifting devices have been installed to help operators. Despatch methods are dependent upon the size of the order and determined by the warehouse management system, which also calculates carton numbers and sizes per order. John-Paul Bednarek, Head of Operations and Service, Teva, gave visitors an informative overview of the whole project, from initial concept through to design and completion of the internal layout in partnership with SSI Schaefer. He said: “SSI Schaefer was able to visualise our needs from the outset focusing on our ultimate goal – to improve upon customer service levels and product offering. The automated storage and distribution facility enabled us to easily reduce our labour overheads by moving from a three-shift operation to two-shifts. Perhaps most importantly, the increased storage capacity allowed us to handle our immediate needs but also accommodates any future growth in the business with ease.” Guests also heard from Bob Jane, Business Development Manager at SSI Schaefer, who gave an in-depth overview of the company across the globe, its structure and overall capabilities in addition to the project concept and delivery at Teva. Jason Hibbs, Managing Director of Jet Environmental Systems, also delivered a presentation on how precise environmental conditions have been achieved and are subsequently controlled inside the Distribution Centre as part of the overall project .

Schaefer provides Linde with new parts store

Wed, 28 Nov 2012 10:39:00 +0100

22 years after its first parts store was installed, Linde Materials Handling (UK) Ltd once again called upon the expertise of SSI Schaefer to fit out its brand new stores facility in Basingstoke, Hampshire. With a close working relationship spanning decades, Linde were more than confident of using SSI Schaefer’s expertise to design and install a new parts store once the decision was made to relocate to new premises from its existing satellite site in Basingstoke. Linde wasted no time in taking full advantage of SSI Schaefer’s vast product portfolio and industry capabilities in order to achieve a working space that would operate efficiently, taking full advantage of the available footprint, whilst adhering to critical advice regarding loading and building regulations to the overall project. The product range and flexibility provided by SSI Schaefer meant that both wide and very narrow aisle (VNA) pallet racking were installed in addition to high bay shelving served by Linde’s K Range narrow aisle combi trucks and a modular multi-tier storage facility for smaller items. Cantilever racking for storing Linde’s long goods and other bulky items and an array of plastic containers were also supplied. Mike Settle, Logistics Manager, Linde, said: “SSI Schaefer’s wide and narrow aisle pallet racking allowed us to use our own range of trucks resulting in the perfect combination. The professionalism and knowledge base that SSI Schaefer has when it comes to providing proficient and dynamic warehouse storage systems enabled us relocate with ease and stick to budget without compromising on efficiency.” The pallet racking installation provides Linde with a stable, robust, versatile, expandable, safe and long-lasting system – perfect for long-term business growth. The VNA system, designed to meet a new generation of warehouses up to 15m high with aisles marginally wider than the load, has improved Linde’s stock rotation and improved picking rates – the increased operational height has enabled Linde to utilise the floor area more efficiently increasing the overall stores capacity. Linde offers bespoke handling solutions for every type of industrial and commercial application. These include engine and electric powered counterbalance trucks, a complete range of warehouse trucks, very narrow aisle systems, electric tow tractors, sideloaders and container handlers.

Innovative material flow concept for modular shelving system

Tue, 20 Nov 2012 13:11:00 +0100

In line with its principle of 'premium service for premium sports cars', over the past few years Porsche has redesigned its spare parts supply logistics for customers and consolidated logistics functions for development departments at a single site. The company's new central spare parts warehouse at Sachsenheim was constructed in two phases between 2007 and 2010. A network of outlying warehouses which were increasingly hampering the efficient flow of material were closed down and the storage space and processes transferred to the 112 900 m² facility at Sachsenheim. This was the first point at which Porsche drew on the expertise of SSI Schaefer, which supplied the shelving systems for large and medium-sized parts. This project having been completed successfully, it was only logical to choose the Neunkirchen-based company to fit out the new distribution centre.So in February 2011 SSI Schaefer was awarded the contract to fit out part of the warehouse, destined to supply parts to Porsche's development engineers. Every day 350 parts are transferred into the 10 000 m² storage facility and around 2000 components are shipped out. The warehouse stores small parts, medium parts in containers of up to 1200 x 800 mm (MT1), medium parts in containers of up to 1400 x 1700 mm (MT2), and bulky large parts (GT).Between February and August 2011, SSI Schaefer set up three static pallet warehouses for medium and large parts. For MT1 parts there is a 12-aisle pallet store, with 10 aisles of eight levels and two aisles of seven levels. The MT1 narrow-aisle warehouse contains 5740 pallet storage spaces. Another 1438 spaces are available in the five storage levels of the 7-aisle MT2 warehouse. To store large parts there is a single-aisle pallet warehouse with 140 pallet spaces over five levels. "Thanks to the flexibility of our R 3000 shelving system, the layout of the new warehouse posed no problem," says Arne Limper, Sales Group Manager for shelving installations at SSI Schäfer. "The key thing for the Porsche solution was to gear the storage areas towards a consistently efficient material flow, from the receipt of goods to picking and then loading the materials in outgoing goods."This placed particular demands on the processes in the small parts warehouse, which had to offer an intelligent solution. Sascha Drechsler, a planner at Porsche, sums up the criteria that the installation had to meet: "Compact but process-optimised, a low degree of automation to ensure flexibility, designed to cope with peak load but with the potential to handle future increased throughput." The company therefore opted for a two-storey modular shelving system on a floating platform. The advantage of this configuration is that it uses the full height of the building while leaving the space underneath free for the processing of incoming and outgoing goods. The two platforms, measuring 2000 m² each and at 5 m and 7.5 m high respectively, provide close to 9000 metres of shelf space for small parts containers weighing up to 15 kg. In total there are 42 000 containers in circulation. The challenge was to ensure the rapid and smooth movement of goods to and from the platforms. Both levels are equipped with transfer points for forklift-assisted goods movements, but these are simply an added extra for exceptional scenarios."For standard inward and outward transfer processes we had the option of using either a ramp system for trucks and lifting gear or a conveyor system and conventional lift systems," explains Drechsler. "But neither was able to satisfy our material flow concept or growth strategy." A ramp would have taken up floor space, so was quickly eliminated from consideration; and conventional lifts proved to be a bottleneck for the planned processes. "The small parts warehouse needs to cope with peak periods and allow for future increases in throughput," says Drechsler. "This means fluctuations of at least +/- 20% Two conventional lifts would have been incapable of handling this. And three would have made the system too big." Jürgen Kalkenbrenner, Sales Manager for automated complete systems at SSI Schaefer, explains another problem: "Conventional lifts are associated with unnecessary delays and tie up a lot of manpower. Everyone's familiar with the situation: you're waiting for the lift and when it finally arrives it's full. For logistics processes, this just won't do." During the implementation phase, the intralogistics specialists at SSI Schaefer and the planning team at Porsche Logistik developed a new and innovative conveyor solution which would soon become the "core of our small parts storage and picking processes", as Drechsler puts it. The SSI Schaefer approach was to install a flexible automation solution for transferring goods to and from a conventional lift system. "This is the first step in automating a multi-storey modular shelving system," says Kalkenbrenner.Inward and outward processes are kept completely separate and generally follow the person-to-goods principle. Incoming goods are processed in the 2000 m² area underneath the platforms. Items for the small parts warehouse are repacked in containers and stacked on picking carts. A lift serves both platform levels and can be used for inward and outward transfer at the same time. Unlike basic lifts, the process is completely automatic. Warehouse personnel move the carts to a transfer station and press the button for the desired platform level. The process is then completed automatically without any further manual input.On each side of the lift is an electric conveyor belt – one for loading carts and the other for discharging them. The belt conveyors also serve as a buffer for the next cart load. When the button is pressed the conveyor transports the loaded cart into the lift system. Quick-close doors seal the lift area and the two-column lift carries the cart to the selected level. At the transfer station the rolling gates open and the cart is ejected on the discharge side. "There is no need for anyone to be present to take the cart out of the lift," says Kalkenbrenner. "In addition, the levels are continually supplied with inward goods containers." At the same time, any carts on the other conveyor belt can be automatically transferred to the column lift with outgoing containers and carried to another level. "This saves precious time," adds Kalkenbrenner.A rotating table is installed at ground level to eject the roller containers. This table turns the carts and outgoing picking containers by 90 degrees before discharging them on to the outgoing conveyor. This ensures that the roller containers are correctly oriented below the platform structure so they can be consolidated in the outgoing goods area.Efficiency calculations performed by Porsche Logistik show that the new system configuration is paying for itself after just a short time in operation thanks to the elimination of waiting times. "But this is really just an extra benefit," says Drechsler. "The efficiency of the material flow was our top priority. The smart combination of conventional technology and additional automation components has produced a convincing system concept. It's a process-optimised concept with which we can achieve guaranteed throughput and respond to potential growth."

Ladies Driving Challenge 2012

Thu, 11 Oct 2012 12:57:00 +0200

For the second year running SSI Schaefer put together a team of females to take part in and successfully complete the 2012 Ladies Driving Challenge at Bovington Army Camp in Dorset in aid of Marie Curie Cancer Care raising to date over £1000. Despite the awful weather conditions, the driving challenge enabled Schaefer’s team to get behind the wheel of some unusual vehicles including a Fire Engine, Cherry Picker, HGV, WW2 Army Truck and Jeep, Double Decker Bus, Transporter Lorry, Police Landrover and many more, all in the name of charity. Marcia said: “It is such a wonderful charity event for SSI Schaefer to be involved in, giving us ladies the chance to drive a host of unique vehicles that we wouldn’t normally be able to drive around some rather challenging courses! As cancer affects most families I feel it is the perfect opportunity to take part in a great challenge and have a bit of fun whilst helping others in this worthwhile cause.” For every £100 raised, five hours of nursing care can be provided by Marie Curie Cancer Care, which currently provides care for 50% of all cancer patients who pass away at home. The SSI Schaefer team included: Marcia Rosser-Hall, Carla Goncalves, Lynda Villiers, Andrea Baker, Tracey Peace and Susan Barrett. Marcia continued: “Special thanks to Tracey Peace, who travelled all the way down from Castle Donnington the night before the event to be kindly looked after by Andrea…only to get a good soaking and head back not arriving home until after midnight…..what a trooper! Thanks also to our UK Director Jaap Vos for getting very wet and supporting us at this event!

SSI Schaefer provides a smooth transition for Yankee Candle® Europe

Thu, 20 Sep 2012 14:17:00 +0200

The world’s best loved candle and largest manufacturer of scented candles extends its state of the art picking system to increase distribution capacity following the move to the new European Headquarters in Avonmouth. Yankee Candle® Europe relocated its new premises in June 2012 to accommodate its plan for future growth of the business. The increased warehouse facilities enables higher levels of stock to be held onsite, increased volume of orders to be dispatched for retail outlets, export customers and a growing online business. The move also enables the company to avoid the additional cost of off-site storage. Having installed the original highly customised ‘flexible zone’ pick-to-light system in the previous building, to improve picking efficiency and reduce picking errors, SSI Schaefer were contracted back to extend the system to accommodate the new warehouse and increased distribution at the new site. In just one month, SSI Schaefer dismantled the existing zone picking system made up of carton live storage, pick-by-light picking and conveyor-based carton sortation, transported it to the new DC and reinstalled it in conjunction with a complete reconfiguration and extension. At 175,000 square feet, this new DC is almost three times the size of the original facility and the addition extra pallet positions has significantly increased storage capacity. There are now more picking locations in the carton live storage, an additional full case ‘pick to belt conveyor’, additional ‘sort-to-route’ sortation lanes for completed orders and separate shipping carton feeds from two zone picking areas. The whole system has also been given a complete software overhaul including additional interfaces to contract carriers’ systems. Bruce Mitchell, Operations Manager, Yankee Candle® Europe, said: “SSI Schaefer ensured the movement of the picking system to our new DC in Avonmouth was accomplished without a hitch. “The additional full case picking functionality provided by the extended system has considerably speeded up our operation, enabling us to more tightly control our picking and wave management. We now have a system which is future-proof and flexible enough to accommodate further expansion when needed.” The extended automated system which includes additional sortation capability and a new automated full case picking area has and will enable Yankee Candle® Europe to continue increasing its throughput efficiency of the picking operation and accommodate with ease, future requirements of its growing internet business.

Efficient Material Flow in Pharmaceuticals Distribution

Thu, 20 Sep 2012 13:33:00 +0200

Every company wants to save costs, respond flexibly to changes in the marketplace, and remain competitive. This only works with perfectly orchestrated internal processes, however. This was Pharmapool's experience, too. Optimise logistics structures, design processes more efficiently, and utilise cost savings – the requirements were defined when the pharmaceutical company began planning a new, central distribution centre in Widnau at the beginning of last year. Regardless of individual interests of the pharmaceutical sector or branded products, the wholesaler for doctors founded in 1996 offers its customers in Switzerland a wide range of medications, incl. generic medicines, consumables, doctor's practice and lab equipment, as well as items on the Drugs and Medical Equipment List (Mittel- und Gegenstände-Liste). In the process, Pharmapool supplies doctors, chemists and consumers reliably within 24 hours with boxes of medicines carefully packed by hand in individual shipments. "The old warehouse structure couldn't keep pace with the requirements of modern order processing and distribution logistics", explains Mr. Binkert, Managing Director of Pharmapool AG, Widnau. This is because all work in the warehouse was previously carried out manually using picking lists. This takes time and costs money. "This is why we have decided to set up a new hall with modern warehouse technology as well as a new picking strategy to exploit all the potential in terms of internal processes", states Mr. Binkert. The key points for Pharmapool were to optimise and increase performance and quality in the picking process. The intention was to base the solution on a carefully orchestrated, custom combination of modular systems.The scope of services provided by SSI Schaefer ranged from system planning and consulting to implementation, through to after-sales service. Together they started work on implementing the project in line with all the requirements and on schedule. To achieve this, SSI Schaefer worked closely with architects and the Pharmapool project team, right from the start. This meant that proposals from SSI Schaefer on the hall layout were incorporated at an early stage to facilitate the optimum design, meeting all requirements, for the subsequent installation of the picking system. An intelligent material flow concept with as much automation as necessary, and as little automation as possible; this was the guiding principle followed by SSI Schaefer in developing the project. "We examined all the requirements and the available options in great detail to achieve the optimum result for Pharmapool. Along the way, this project demonstrated very clearly that a semi-automated system incorporating carefully orchestrated components can produce the perfect result in the pharmaceutical sector as well", reflected Bruno Skraber, Head of Department at SSI Schaefer, Switzerland. A carefully designed, semi-automated total system concept comprising conveyor technology, paperless "Man to Goods" picking (RF Picking) combined with ergonomic picking stations and appropriate warehouse technology has been ensuring exceptionally efficient processes since the end of 2011. The new system on a 1300 square metre base area is equipped with an R3000 modular shelving system providing 12,000 storage spaces. A conveyor technology system over 80 m long with eight picking zones was installed in the middle of the modular shelving system. Here, the conveyor path ensures rapid transport of the order containers between the picking stations and the dispatch area. Within the zones, SSI's WAMAS C software guarantees fast and transparent picking processes. The conveyor technology provides the foundation for the rapid implementation of the new distribution centre, forming the centrepiece of the system. This carefully designed concept in Widnau now prepares around 10,000 different items in 200,000 packages ready for retrieval. They are stored in 9000 Euro-Fix containers from SSI Schaefer. The individual zones are interconnected via the automatic conveyor technology, forming a complete unit. "This structured, transparent system design means that this Pharmapool warehouse offers a high level of efficiency", explains Skraber. All jobs are recorded directly on Pharmapool's in-house ERP system. This then communicates directly with the WAMAS C logistics software that initiates the retrieval operations. And off we go. WAMAS tells the system, and automatically the workers, how many containers should be required for a job. The workers send the empty containers via conveyor technology into the warehouse or to the picking zones. "The use of containers and conveyor technology permits the automation of transport processes in combination with a manual system, ensuring an exceptionally fast material flow", explains Skraber. Even before the transport containers follow their routes to one of the eight picking stations, they are automatically scanned via light barrier and a staff member attaches a printed order docket. This is recorded on the system and paired up with the container. The transport container then makes its way to the relevant picking zone. Once there, it is scanned by a picker with a small finger scanner connected directly to the hand-held terminal. This tells the worker digitally and with no delay where the right items are to be retrieved. Controlled via the system, the picker is led to the correct storage location. At the storage location, there is another label with a barcode scanned by the worker before s/he removes the goods. To ensure that no errors occur, the barcode for the goods is recorded and acknowledged. This increases the order picking quality. After completing each picking process, the worker in the relevant zone sends the container back into the goods flow. Once the order has been compiled in full, the goods are automatically sent in the direction of the despatch area to the last workstation. Here, the order is checked once again, packed and released for dispatch. 15 dispatch shipments leave the warehouse each day. The new system has achieved an increase in picking efficiency of around 30%. "Following a brief startup phase and familiarisation with the new way of working, the system has accelerated the material flow considerably. And the clear organisation of the picking zones and new picking strategies have streamlined order processing and compilation. The error quota has also dropped to virtually zero", according to Mr. Binkert from Pharmapool. It is not just the warehouse that is more efficient; employee work quality has also increased considerably. This is because the conveyor technology takes the strain off picking staff and instead supports the workers in compiling jobs easily and without errors. The bright and friendly atmosphere in the warehouse also provides a more relaxed working environment."There are no interface problems at all, either in project implementation or in the system design", continues Skraber. The implementation process was carried out with purpose and flexibility via teamwork. "We are very happy with the project management from SSI Schaefer and the results provided by the solution. Our expectations have been more than met with the project and we are now absolutely ideally equipped for the future", summarises Mr. Binkert from Pharmapool.

Kiddicare Prepares for Multichannel Success

Thu, 20 Sep 2012 13:18:00 +0200

SSI Schaefer worked with Kiddicare, now owned by Morrisons, in 2008 to install a pallet racking bulk store area and multi-level picking module with an integrated conveyor system into its then 160,000 sq ft warehouse in Peterborough – also home to Kiddicare’s flagship super store. Following the brief to extend this system in December 2011, it took SSI Schaefer just seven months to finish the installation and provide Kiddicare with thousands of additional pallet positions and pickfaces for both cartons and small items, increasing the size of the warehouse footprint by 3180 m². Kiddicare Logistics Manager, Steve Poulter, said, “SSI Schaefer has helped Kiddicare hit our expansion targets to support our rapidly growing multichannel business operation. The teams involved work effectively together to deliver the project on time and in budget.” The Kiddicare warehouse, which stores a significantly high value of stock ready for despatch, currently supports a predominantly online business; however there are plans to open ten additional retail outlets across the UK, the first opening this Autumn. These stores will be replenished with goods from a new central distribution centre in Daventry. Now comprising wide aisle, double-deep adjustable pallet racking, a substantial area of the original racking was removed, relocated and reassembled to accommodate a new three-tier rack-supported pick tower linked to the existing pick tower by high level bridge walkways to enable operator movement between the two areas. The top floor of the three-tier pick tower consists of shelving dedicated to the storage of small items; pallets are stored below, on the ground and on the two remaining levels. Mesh decking is installed above the pallet locations on these two levels to provide additional carton storage. A separate conveyor system now takes complete and partly-picked orders in totes away from the small items picking area before merging with the existing conveyor system, routed via existing picking zones, to arrive in the packing area. A new heavy duty spiral chute to enable fast track distribution around the warehouse was also installed. SSI Schaefer subcontracted the in-rack sprinkler system to Tyco Fire & Integrated solutions, the electrical installation and data cabling was outsourced to EDI Services Ltd. To minimise disruption to daily operations, SSI Schaefer meticulously planned the project to ensure Kiddicare remained fully operational throughout the entire period of installation.

SSI Schaefer to Fulfil E-Commerce Demand for NBTY Europe Ltd

Thu, 30 Aug 2012 11:16:00 +0200

SSI Schaefer has won the contract to provide NBTY Europe Ltd with an automated system that will revolutionise its capabilities within the ecommerce market. Currently breaking into the e-com industry, NBTY Europe Ltd, the parent company of the retail brands Holland & Barrett Holland, GNC UK, Nature’s Way Ireland and De Tuinen Holland, has recently experienced significant growth within this area, much higher than previously predicated. Currently serving their high street and online subsidiaries using a manual system within their central distribution centre in Burton-on-Trent, Staffordshire, the pressure to fulfil daily demand is growing. To effectively serve its Holland & Barrett online customers, NBTY are installing an automated system into their DC with the help of SSI Schaefer – with continuous online product offers, high order waves are becoming the norm and outsourcing additional temporary labour whilst risking being unable to keep up with demand, is not part of the long term business plan for NBTY. Mark Kendrick, NBTY Europe Ltd, said: “We are delighted to be working in partnership with SSI Schaefer – the new automated system, when complete, will provide us with a faster, more efficient and accurate operation in meeting our online requirements. The system also offers us a scalable solution to our e-com enterprise, enabling us to choose the level of automation to compliment the current level of demand.” Once up and running, the new automated system will operate at five to six times the current output of the manual operation, thereby removing the risk of meeting demand fulfilment. Financial gains will be made as a result of removing the necessity for temporary labour and increased picking accuracy, which in turn will increase overall customer satisfaction.

Combined systems for optimum material flow in a hospital

Mon, 20 Aug 2012 11:21:00 +0200

The healthcare sector is undergoing rapid change. As hospitals face rising cost pressures, the pressure of competition and the continuing necessity of new investments, it is essential to optimise internal processes. If these processes are not carefully coordinated, the hospital is likely to experience supply difficulties. The logistics inside a hospital are more complicated than you might think. To satisfy both current and future requirements, hospitals are now being forced to identify untapped rationalisation potential, develop new organisational structures and optimise processes.Bern University Hospital, founded in 1354, is playing a leading role in this process of change. The hospital occupies an important position in the Swiss healthcare sector. With a staff of over 7100, the hospital provides high-quality medical treatment and individual care to 52 000 inpatients and more than 263 000 outpatients every year. This makes for complex intralogistics.The hospital already had a central warehouse designed by SSI Schaefer where medical consumables and other materials are order-picked. To supply all wards, including some non-bed wards, a modular cabinet solution was gradually introduced. This system offers significant quality benefits when it comes to material management. However, from a logistical point of view it also means more picking positions to be processed. The modular cabinet system is based on the kanban principle. Items are stored in defined compartments. There are two identical compartments for each item, each containing the quantity expected to be used up before new supplies are ordered. When one compartment is empty the replenishing process is initiated. Until new supplies arrive, goods are removed from the second compartment. This system ensures fixed order quantities and optimum reliability of supply. A project group was organised to evaluate a more efficient picking solution. The objectives were to take the burden off the central warehouse, improve efficiency, reduce personnel requirements, increase supply quality, minimise errors and simplify processes. "To achieve these goals we were prepared to adopt a new approach. So we opted for a second, decentralised, inventory-managed warehouse and a move towards automation," says Thomas Nietlispach, the manager of the central warehouse."Time always brings change. This is why we offered the customer a modular solution that is not only perfect for the present, but also incorporates a flexible design that can be expanded as a modular system as required", explains Bruno Skraber, departmental manager at SSI Schaefer Switzerland. The automation technology was chosen to suit the customer's own process and therefore be as cost-effective as possible, and now satisfies all the hospital's requirements. "This system, a combination of storage and conveying technology, proved to be ideal, and the customised combination of modular systems achieves the stated aim of increasing supply reliability while taking the burden off personnel," says Skraber.The new facility was installed without any interruption to normal warehouse operations. The task was not without its challenges: "The new warehouse was to be installed in an existing space. So the project had to be implemented within a defined area of 500 m²," Skraber explains. Particular attention was also paid to ergonomics, as one of the objectives was to reduce personnel workloads. The new warehouse now holds around 1000 different items. For optimum storage, there is live storage racking for around 100 'A' products (fast movers) and modular racking for 'B' and 'C' products (medium and slow movers). For bulky items such as nappies and surgical materials there is a dedicated pallet picking zone. All storage spaces are managed by WAMAS C, the SSI Schaefer logistics software. The warehouse management system is linked in to the customer's SAP system. "WAMAS C makes process control absolutely transparent. All processes are clearly structured," says Skraber. Orders are picked using handheld RF terminals in three zones, which are directly interlinked by the container conveyor. The live storage racking with fast-moving items is positioned right next to the conveyor. This allows goods in this zone to be picked efficiently at an ergonomic height and placed directly into the containers on the conveyor belt. The modular racking containing B and C items is located directly behind the warehouse staff, so they can also be picked in just a few steps. The facility is manned by three to four people working a single shift. "The new solution not only makes our processes more transparent, it also reduces picking time by over 50% without any reduction in quality. This gives staff more time for other logistics tasks," says Nietlispach. As for the flow of goods and information, the requirements of each ward are entered into an MDE device each day and sent to the SAP system. Orders are sorted and picked according to internal priorities and delivery routes. The delivery slip is then printed in the picking warehouse before the warehouse team scans the order and links it with up to five containers per order. En route to the warehouse, the software automatically registers in which of the two zones the containers will be discharged and when. Once the order container has been transported into the picking zone by the conveyor belt, an employee scans the barcode on the container and the picking instructions are displayed on the handheld terminal. Every pick is confirmed with a handheld scanner for checking purposes. "This increases the order picking quality," says Skraber. "The customer always receives a correct, error-free delivery." Once the order is complete, the conveyor automatically transports the picked items to the outgoing goods area. Here, the containers are placed on caddies and supply assistants deliver them to the modular cabinets for each ward. In the event of problems, SSI Schaefer's IT team can perform remote error diagnosis and troubleshooting.Transparent, efficient and economical processes in a user-friendly solution tailored to the hospital's requirements. And with an error rate of almost zero. "We're very pleased that we chose to make the leap into automated technology," concludes Nietlispach.

Lift off for PEI Genesis

Fri, 10 Aug 2012 16:01:00 +0200

SSI Schaefer have supplied and installed two Logimat vertical lift machines into the premises of PEI Genesis based in Southampton. PEI Genesis is the world’s fastest assembler of precision connectors and power supplies. From the world’s largest global component inventory, PEI Genesis develop engineered solutions that support the military, industrial, medical, aerospace, transportation, and energy sectors. Jerry Griffin, Facilities Manager, PEI Genesis, said: “We have a good, long standing relationship with SSI Schaefer having previously worked with them to provide us with both single storey and two-tier Regal 3000 modular shelving systems. We were first made aware of the new SSI Schaefer Logimat following research done into buying a new vertical lift machine to complement our existing operation.This was to provide us with a high performance picking solution for our small parts in limited space.” A key factor in the decision to purchase the Logimat machines was the rack and pinion lift mechanism – the advantage being there are no chains or belts , making it reliable and easy to maintain. The modular design also allowed SSI Schaefer to easily match the dimensions of an existing machine whilst maximising the available space for the second machine. PEI Genesis now have a 6,000mm high Logimat machine to meet their original requirement, in addition to an 8,500mm high machine required for a totally separate application. A LogiMat storage lift can be compared to an oversized drawer cabinet with two stacks of trays (one in the front and one in the rear). Between those stacks operates a lift, which extracts individual trays as required and delivers them to the service window. The Logimat space-saving storage system from SSI Schaefer is ideal for small parts storage and offers a high order picking performance – vertical storage solutions are an ideal alternative to store and order pick small parts in a compact and ergonomic way resulting in increased performance levels of up to 20%.

MACO Go Live

Tue, 10 Jul 2012 15:59:00 +0200

SSI Schaefer modifies existing pallet racking installation to include live storage to support the continued logistics and service improvements at MACO Door & Window Hardware (UK) Ltd. MACO, leading manufacturers of door and window hardware, house over £2 million worth of dedicated stock within its high-tech, high-bay warehouse unit in Sittingbourne, Kent, designed and installed by SSI Schaefer in 2000. Having previously worked with SSI Schaefer to supply its warehouse complete with PR600 pallet racking, MACO were confident in calling Schaefer back in. Originally installed for selling bulk quantities to their customer base, MACO is driving change to provide customer oriented, service focussed supply, offering flexibility to a larger number of customers. Requiring a higher density storage system for box picked items (hardware for windows and doors), previously picked by the pallet, a revised operation was needed to fulfil the orders. Following a trial of MACO’s products at SSI Schaefer’s demo room in Andover, KDR Live Storage was chosen as the preferred solution. KDR is a versatile live storage shelving system – secure and stable upright frames combined with reinforcing cross beams form a ‘racking frame’ to house entire flow bed units. The flow beds can be modified quickly and without screws using adjustable hooks. In this instance, the KDR flow beds were easily incorporated into the existing pallet racking system allowing the previous ground floor bulk pallet locations to be used as push back storage. The number of ground floor manual picking locations has increased with a greater depth of stock for each. Full pallet locations are still maintained at higher levels. Kevin Whiting, Managing Director, and MACO UK, said: “Having used SSI Schaefer to supply the original pallet racking, we were confident of their known expertise in this area. We urgently needed a solution that continued to cater for our bulk pick orders whilst managing our smaller orders efficiently – the KDR system, attached directly to the pallet racking allows us to effectively pick and pack one or two boxes only from a particular storage location without having to enter the bulk storage high bay area.” www.ssi-schaefer.co.uk

VW Brands Hatch

Tue, 10 Jul 2012 15:40:00 +0200

SSI Schaefer, the official partner of Volkswagen Motorsport, is proud to support the 2012 Volkswagen Scirocco R-Cup, consisting of eight races between April and October. The UK leg of the tournament, the third race, took place at Brands Hatch in Kent which saw Jonas Giesler, driving the yellow SSI Schaefer branded Scirocco, take second place behind more experienced driver Ola Nilsson. After a nail-biting 25 laps Nilsson relegated the German young pilot Jonas Giesler, who had started from pole, and his fellow countryman Jann-Hendrik Ubben to the other podium places. Both Jonas Giesler and Ola Nilsson made a good start in the race before the more experienced Ola prevailed against his seven-year-younger rival. Behind them Legends drivers David Brabham, Mark Blundell and Martin Donnelly fought some thrilling duels in the top ten. One of the race victims was Legends entrant Damon Hill, who after an incident of body contact was forced to retire from the race after seven laps with a technical defect. The 1996 Formula One World Champion, Damon Hill, who had ended his motorsport career almost 13 years ago, made a one-off motorsport comeback in the Volkswagen Scirocco R-Cup and for the benefit of his children’s charity ‘The Halow Project’ for which Volkswagen Motorsport Director Jost Capito presented a cheque in the amount of 10,000 euros. Five other legends – Martin Donnelly, Julian Bailey and Perry McCarthy, who together with Hill formed the legendary 1980s “Rat Pack” racers, plus Le Mans winner David Brabham added a further attraction to the field. Jost Capito said: “This Scirocco R-Cup race will long be remembered by Volkswagen and the fans here at Brands Hatch. In Damon Hill and the ‘Rat Pack’ we had outstanding motorsport legends on the grid. For Volkswagen it is an honour that Damon Hill celebrated a one-off motorsport comeback after 13 years. What’s more, the race saw some thrilling duels of the stars and a deserving winner in Ola Nilsson.” The remaining races take place in Austria and Germany between June and October 2012. www.ssi-schaefer.co.uk

Nottinghamshire Police Benefit from New Trackless Mobile Shelving

Mon, 11 Jun 2012 07:20:00 +0200

The system, which now houses over 7500 euro sized plastic containers for material storage, was chosen and installed into an existing 325sqm office floor area due to its simple, yet innovative trackless design – the mobile solution from SSI Schaefer offered an alternative approach during the tendering process.Vince Chiverton, Retained Property Projects Premises Officer, Nottinghamshire Police, said: “SSI Schaefer’s trackless mobile shelving system was the perfect solution for our storage requirements – as it has enabled us to keep the existing floor at the same level – if we had opted for a traditional system, a false floor would have been necessary in order to accommodate the tracks, resulting in on-going disruption whilst increasing the height of existing doorways.“The new system now allows easy access to all of our material storage in a central location rather than being stored across several satellite sites.The trackless design also eliminated a number of health and safety aspects – without the number of traditional guide tracks and ramps normally associated with mobile shelving, the surrounding trackless mobile shelving environment becomes much safer – no trip hazard. In addition, the order picker selected by Nottinghamshire Police to access the upper level of material boxes, would have become unsteady over a ramp.SSI Schaefer designed the mobile bases to accommodate the extra wide shelving bays needed to optimally store five boxes along the length of each shelf and in doing so, the entire complement of boxes was accommodated within the existing office space – an impressive 80% increase in storage capacity has been achieved by installing a trackless and mobile shelving system.A trackless mobile shelving system is ideal for businesses looking to increase existing storage capacity with little disruption to on-going work and minimum installation damage – only one rear guide track needs to be fitted leaving floor coverings undamaged.Less prone to breakdown over traditional systems, a trackless system is quick and simple to install, providing an easy to clean, low maintenance, modern and compact storage facility that can be integrated onto any surface and relocated at any time with ease.Available in a variety of heights, depths and aisle widths, the trackless shelving system really is the perfect storage solution for many different sector areas. Due to its simple, yet streamlined design, it is particularly useful within general office, museum and archive environments whilst also being the ideal storage system for the cleanroom industry, notably those within the pharmaceutical, healthcare, chemical and research sectors. Fitted with wheels at the base of each shelving unit, SSI Schaefer’s trackless mobile shelving significantly reduces the immediate load impact on the floor – a significant advantage when installing directly onto a raised access floor.

Schaefer’s Aquabox – Water for Life

charlotte.vine@harvestpr.co.uk — Mon, 14 May 2012 08:02:00 +0200

75,000 boxes made to date... SSI Schaefer continues to support Aquabox Trust, a registered charity that provides a rapid response provision of safe drinking water and welfare aid items in the wake of both natural and man-made disasters.The charity, organised by the Rotary Club Wirksworth, has been supplying the Aquabox, designed by SSI Schaefer and manufactured in Germany, for over 12 years. The robust and rigid plastic container, with a bung in the side, is used primarily for the storage of survival bags, medical supplies and blankets, then, once emptied is used as a water purification kit – the bung can be removed and replaced by a tap. An Aquabox Gold includes an AquaFilter that will provide sufficient drinking water and general washing water for a family of six for up to 24 months – the Aquabox Gold includes additional humanitarian aid items. Each box can be used by the recipient family for many years to come, for example, as a vermin proof rice store. The Aquabox Community encompasses an AquaFilter Community – each box has a capacity of roughly 75 litres and every AquaFilter Community is capable of generating up to 500,000 litres of drinking water from local contaminated water sources. This is enough basic drinking water for 100 families of six (600 people) for over 18 months; over 500 tonnes of drinking water. Joe Joyce, Plastics Account Manager, SSI Schaefer, said: “We have manufactured the Aquabox for over 12 years now, producing approximately 75,000 boxes to date and have watched the charity grow – our commitment to providing the charity with high quality plastic boxes is second to none and we will continue to do so, now and in the future.”

The ‘Wright’ Move for Derek

Tue, 17 Apr 2012 10:10:00 +0200

Starting out as a Junior Autoparts Sales Executive at the age of 19 before his promotion to MoD Account Manager, Derek, now 31, is relishing in his new role as Solutions Manager, focusing on combi-projects – installations that require both static and automated storage and distribution systems. Moving from the MoD side of the business into automation was quite a transition for Derek, a steep learning curve and challenge that he has certainly risen to. Although now responsible for projects in the value of one million plus, Derek also supports Schaefer’s Regional Sales Managers on combi-projects at all value levels.Derek said: “I moved into automation in order to set myself a new goal and continue to grow professionally – as one of the UK’s leading materials handling company, I knew I wanted to stay at SSI Schaefer but felt I had achieved all I could within the MoD department, achieving successful growth rate in terms of sales turnover. “The role that automation has to play in today’s modern warehouse is exciting and I want to be a part of it – Schaefer’s capabilities within this area lead the way and are at the cutting edge in terms of innovation, design, and technology developments. I’m here for the long-term.”David Hibbet, Business Development Manager, Systems group, SSI Schaefer, said: “It is important that we continue to train and develop the skills of our workforce in all areas of the business – Derek’s transition from the MoD side was made easy with his eagerness to learn and is now a valued member of the automation team.”

SSI Schaefer to Fit-Out Harrods

Wed, 07 Mar 2012 10:02:00 +0100

The luxury retailer is currently relocating its entire warehouse operations to Berkshire from its existing site in Osterley, West London.Work is underway in the 240,000sq ft centre, now known as TVDC, with the aim of being fully operational by mid-2012 and SSI Schaefer have already installed narrow aisle pallet racking that will provide immediate additional storage capacity and meet the requirements for future sales and growth of the business.SSI Schaefer are also designing, supplying and installing a fully integrated and automated storage, handling and picking system.The system will comprise; a four aisle miniload cranes system, transport, replenishment and picking conveyors, automated goods to man workstations with pick by light technology, medium item shelving, man up order picking in very narrow aisle (VNA) pallet racking to 12 metres, unique big ticket high bay racking integrated with special large product order picker machines, process area workstations for inbound stock handling and outbound store preparation, 10,000 store delivery totes and handling equipment.Simon Finch, Deputy Director, Distribution, Harrods, said: “From the outset of this project we were looking for a turnkey supplier that could project manage the entire fit-out of the warehouse, and we found this in SSI Schaefer. Their expertise in systems integration, design, installation, delivery and on-going service and maintenance support proved to be a winning formula for such a relocation project of this size.”In addition, SSI Schaefer have been given sole responsibility for the implementation of SAP’s latest Warehouse Management Software, EWM – Extended Warehouse Management – into the new centre, due to their in-house expertise and ability to configure and deploy EWM.SAP EMW will provide Harrods with a high level of process and inventories transparency, a precise planning of warehouse steps as well as efficient distribution and storage processes, managing both the manual and automated processes.The new warehouse will hold some 10,000 product lines while many more SKUs will be cross-docked and delivered to the Knightsbridge store continually throughout the day from its convenient location off the M4.The project represents a major investment for Harrods and a long term commitment to SSI Schaefer who will provide on-site resident maintenance.

A Tall Order from the Wine Society for SSI Schaefer

Wed, 22 Feb 2012 14:19:00 +0100

The installation, now fully operational and complete with high-bay pallet racking, Live Carton Storage (KDR), shelving, integrated conveyor systems, case-picking, single item zone-picking and carton shipping sortation, has given The Wine Society a 40% increase in productivity since going live. Warehouse one, the original building is now the store for maturing wines, warehouse three contains reserve pallets of stock held in warehouse one; warehouses two and four are the heart of operations. It is in these two warehouses, containing medium to fast moving products, where SSI Schaefer installed the high-bay pallet racking system and the picking, packing and sortation system, the latter of which on two levels. Warehouse four currently boasts the flattest warehouse floor in Europe and the highest Very Narrow Aisle (VNA) racking serviced by forklift trucks in Europe – the high bay pallet racking system that has over 12,000 pallet locations, stands at 15.3 metres tall with eight pallet levels inside the 20 metre high building. The VNA racking is serviced by Linde forklift trucks, which extend to the highest point of their range and can handle up to 1250 kg per pallet lift - man-up trucks pick from levels one to six and forklift trucks bring down pallets from levels seven and eight. Full case picking is effected from pallets in warehouse two; put on conveyors, brought down by lowerators to conveyors on the ground level and merged with single item picks (in cases); the single item picks are made in one area surrounded by KDR for fastest movers and shelving for the slower movers. All cases enter a carton sortation system with 13 lanes, two routes per lane; this means The Wine Society can pick and sort 26 van routes in one pick wave – The Wine Society’s own van fleet does 70% of all deliveries. The sortation system also carries cases from the upper level and delivers them to the pick area, via dedicated lanes, for replenishing the shelving and KDR. Peter Styne, Operations Manager, The Wine Society, said: “Once we had chosen SSI Schaefer as our preferred partner on this project, we worked closely with them to develop and design the best solution for our business. We operate a fleet of dedicated delivery vans which resulted in the need for us to develop a routing sortation system. The Schaefer solution, designed to include the high bay, has proved perfect for our needs. ” The busier the operation gets the more efficient it becomes because more people operating in smaller zones means they spend less time walking and more time picking. The Wine Society works just one day shift with 30-90 operators, depending upon season.SSI Schaefer also installed a trash conveyor to remove empty cartons from the building, which are subsequently compacted and recycled. The existing distribution centre in Stevenage, which has been operational since 1965 has undergone steady expansion over the years and now has capacity to store over 7,000,000 bottles; prior to its current location, wine was stored at three separate locations across London, including below the London Palladium in Soho. The Wine Society, founded in 1874, is a multi-award winning member-owned co-operative. Over 100,000 members have access to excellent wine at fair prices, with any profit made ploughed straight back into the business. Its team of 6 buyers continually travels the world, discovering new producers and exploring new regions so that members really can have access to a lifetime’s supply of wine. SSI Schaefer is hosting a Regional Logistics Event at The Wine Society on Wednesday 21 March – numbers are strictly limited – to attend the event or for further information please email: solutions@ssi-schaefer.co.uk

Komori Reduces Pallet Racking Floor Space in half

Fri, 20 Jan 2012 07:41:00 +0100

Often seen as a system only required by large companies, Komori, a small to medium sized manufacturer and supplier of Printing Production Equipment and Machinery, recently purchased a mobile racking system from SSI Schaefer that has now been installed within its new premises in Leeds, Yorkshire.The reduction in pallet racking floor space – in Komori’s case 372mtr² (floor footprint of existing pallet racking layout) less 195mtr² (floor footprint of a mobile pallet racking layout) = 180mtr² floor space saved – also meant that Komori was able to reduce its required spend when looking at new premises to move its operational facility in to.Darren Etherington, Parts Manager, Komori, said: “We have achieved significant space and cost savings as a result of Schaefer’s mobile pallet racking system which is good news for the business – storage capacity is often scarce and expensive but this system has allowed us to gain high density, easy to access storage space without having to pay out for larger premises than necessary.”Stewart Hardy, Area Manager, SSI Schaefer, said: “Mobile racking systems are the ideal alternative for using existing space more cost-effectively whilst storing manifold or varying goods. Our systems consist of rack units mounted on a carriage; hence the rack units are mobile and save the space which a conventional racking system would require for aisles.”He continued: “According to the requirements of the customer, our racking systems are designed for various weights and heavy load mobile racking systems move on rails, powered electrically. Racks for light and medium loads can be operated manually and without tracks.”In direct comparison with traditional compact warehouse systems, the advantages of mobile racking systems are clear: Space utilisation: For the same volume of warehoused goods, mobile racking systems require 40% less space than stationary racking systems.Warehouse volume: In the same amount of space, up to 85% more warehouse volume can be stored using mobile racking systems instead of conventional systems.Building planning: With a space utilisation percentage of 65 - 85%, the use of mobile racking systems can have a positive effect on the overall costs of a warehouse building.

SSI Schaefer Celebrates 50 Year Anniversary in the UK

Tue, 13 Dec 2011 14:25:00 +0100

First founded by Fritz-Schaefer in 1937 in Neunkirchen, Germany, it wasn’t until the 1960’s that the company started to focus on international markets and the first two foreign companies were founded in Basingstoke, UK and Neunkirch, Switzerland. Today the company group is not only represented in Europe, but also in America, Australia and many countries in the Middle East and Asia.Mike Bell, Customer Service Manager, has been with the company 47 years, joining in 1964, starting out as an office junior at the age of 15, and remembers the first UK made shelf unit that was manufactured.Mike spent much of his early career with Schaefer at the company’s previous facility in Basingstoke from 1971 through to 1994, within sales and marketing roles, before moving to its current, purpose built headquarters in Andover.Mike said: “When I started there were no such things as computers or mobile phones and an electronic typewriter was considered very high tech. Salesmen had to ring in daily from a public telephone box to pick up their messages! “Computer systems come and go as technology has advanced culminating in our current Navision system and over the years my department has been heavily involved as a user in the changes and implementation of each new computer system.“The biggest changes over the years that I have witnessed are the number of employees, technology , location and environmental working conditions and as far as the next 50 years are concerned it can only be onwards and upwards building on our achievements within the logistics market.”Steve Summers joined SSI Schaefer in Basingstoke in 1975, as a draughtsman, before the introduction of computers and CAD, so drawings were produced manually on paper using pencil or ink pens – he is now a Contracts Engineer. Holding a number of roles over the years, it was during the 1980s that Steve supervised a number of projects in Iraq and France when the UK branch still carried out many projects in the Middle East and Europe. He was even fortunate enough to supervise a large installation in Barbados during the 1990s when exports were still then a significant part of the business – which is in stark contrast to UK operations today, particularly since manufacturing was centralised in Germany in 2004 and other divisions have developed and opened up around the world that now handle international business.Bob Jane has been with the company for over 30 years, joining at the age of 23. Bob quickly rose through the ranks at work, starting out as an area junior sales representative, before leaping to senior sales rep, then regional manager, followed by national sales manager and now as Business Development Manager. Years ago Bob worked alongside 28 sales representatives across the country and now there are just ten Regional Field Sales (in addition to specialist sales reps in Automation, Static, Dynamic and Plastics), he said: “The world was certainly a different place during the 1980s when we needed more structure in place to deal with more customers and lengthy communication methods. Our ability to communicate has radically changed the way we carry out business today and we no longer need the field sales manpower to achieve the same result. More recently we’ve significantly increased our specialist sale and technical resources in Automation and Project Management.”In terms of the direction in which the business is going and the logistics industry in general, The Company is all too aware that the needs of customers are constantly evolving which is why SSI Schaefer is continually providing materials handling, storage and distribution solutions that fit in with today’s modern warehouse whilst pushing the boundaries in design, technology and innovation in order to keep one step ahead of the competition.He continued: “The value of projects is now much higher and customers are progressively looking for suppliers that can provide a multi-faceted solution, providing a combined approach that includes both static and automated storage and picking. “We now take on the ‘integrator’ role – more and more customers are looking for working partners that can provide them with the confidence and peace of mind that a project can be handed over and followed through to completion, knowing all aspects of design, build, installation and smooth integration of additional contractors will be managed efficiently and effectively. SSI Schaefer is unique in its position to be able to provide most solutions built from its own product portfolio.“I look forward to the next 50 years!”

SYSTEM RETROFIT PROJECTS FOR BUSINESS

Mon, 28 Nov 2011 08:33:00 +0100

Automation and modern intra-logistics solutions increase the productivity and efficiency of a warehouse. Rapidly changing product offerings, more orders with smaller lot sizes plus significantly increased demand for flexibility combine to require new and more efficient systems and holistic solutions for faster, cost-effective access to the goods.However, the "optimum solution" is not always necessary or possible. System modernization or expansion, so-called retrofitting, is often an alternative. By modernizing systems and system components the operational safety is not only increased, but also results in improved warehouse availability and a reduction in personnel costs of up to 30 percent. Intelligent resource management and green logistics offer further potentials. Based on these parameters, retrofit projects become more and more important. Significant aspect: updating the IT-environment and drive and control engineering.SSI Schäfer responded to this development in the early stages by forming a specialized group. Using their business strategies, warehouse and production systems can be updated quickly and safely to the latest state of the art technology by exchanging components, expanding or modernizing IT, and adding new material flows which can be optimally linked to existing production systems. This applies to old systems from SSI Schäfer as well as to systems from third parties.During the last few years, SSI Schäfer has completed a two-digit number of retrofit-projects every year. Key to these projects: For the most part, old systems are in operation where failures would lead to a negative business outcome. In addition, the time frames for the reorganization are shorter. And: Existing and often restrictive building structures have to be considered during the planning phase for the future logistics concept. Meeting schedules, flexibility and expertise regarding business specific processes and available technologies are therefore required from the plant engineer.These requirements are fulfilled by SSI Schäfer with an extensive service offer. First, the necessary requirement for retrofit-measures is determined by specialists from SSI Schäfer. When planning the new intra-logistics concept, the focus is on the mechanical and electrical optimization of the system and the processes, taking into consideration optimal space utilization and/or creating free space. Ultimate goal: optimization and transparency of material flow, sizing the load carriers to be used, as well as work station design - consideration of safety concepts following new machine guidelines. With the customer, a schedule for implementation is prepared, with as little impact on production as possible. SSI Schäfer recently exchanged the entire tray conveyor system, including drive and control engineering for the storage and retrieval machines at KHS in Dortmund, in ten weekends.When modernizing or integrating dynamic system components, special emphasis is placed on the integration of e.g. energy-efficient drives. This ranges from efficiency-optimized drive versions and the so-called deadweight balance via an intelligent control of SRM-main axles including power recovery devices as well as scheduling shutdowns. Old drives and converters are replaced by modern, energy-saving and powerful aggregates, the controls are modified to Siemens S7 and the communication to TCP/IP-protocols.Orders are currently in progress for logistics providers such as Geodis or Plastal in Hambach. Replacement of the existing warehouse management system with the SSI Schäfer software "ant" was successfully completed in the last few months for SKF, Berlin. The existing order-picking workstations and computer hardware were also modernized and updated at this project.Last but not least - the topic maintenance and availability. The newly installed components not only increase the efficiency and throughput by improving networking of the single controls, but in fact the new systems are significantly lower-maintenance and generally offer better and faster remote maintenance possibilities.The example of brand manufacturer Braun located in Marktheidenfeld indicates that such projects can be planned and implemented with SSI Schäfer. The continuous modernization of a nine-aisle high-bay warehouse was coordinated and implemented with the customer over several years. At this point, the components are state-of-the-art and the 1982 system has subsequently received a CE-certificate.These examples confirm: retrofitting is often a good alternative compared to the high investment for constructing a new system. Companies who regularly modernize always receive state-of-the-art systems - and benefit of the economics of the system. The first priority for all parameters is: "As much optimization as possible, as little disturbance of daily operations as necessary“. The result is a single integrated solution. The high availability and the extended life span of the modernized production system also offers good protection for the investment.

System planning without data

Mon, 21 Nov 2011 10:11:00 +0100

New Wave CZ, Czech member of the Karel Holoubek Trade Group, sells qualityproducts in the paper goods and giftware market. The company ships orders within the shortest possible time to shopping centres, department stores, gift boutiques, toy shops, etc. in the Czech Republic and Slovakia. With the objective of increasing productivity, reducing labour costs and cutting picking times, the company placed their trust in SSI Schaefer in Graz and the Czech Republic to set up their distribution centre in Karlovy Vary.A lack of reliable and transparent transaction data previously hampered the company in tracking and efficiently compiling and shipping stocks of stored and picked goods on time. New Wave had also been picking goods entirely manually. This posed particular challenges as SSI Schaefer was not able to access any reliable data to base the new logistics concept on. Nevertheless, the intralogistics specialist delivered a highly sophisticated solution that contributed significantly to the success of New Wave, introducing automated technologies, software solutions and the delivery of all components from one source.The heart of the new system is a 5-aisle, automated small parts storage system with 35,000 container storage spaces. Here the Schaefer Miniload Crane (SMC) storage and retrieval system ensures efficient inward and outward goods movements. The Warehouse Management System (WMS) WAMAS controls all the processes. When a customer submits an order, the WMS processes it and starts picking the goods. In the outward movement, the SMC retrieves the load carriers and delivers them to a transfer zone. From here they travel via conveyors to the pick-to-tote workstations, where employees pick the goods according to the goods-to-man principle. Once again, a conveyor belt acts as a transport system conveying the goods to the dispatch station and preparing them for speedy dispatch.“SSI Schaefer presented us with a concept for a fully automated warehouse using the goods-to-man principle. The solution was new to us, but proved to offer exceptionally high performance. It enabled us to increase our efficiency significantly and to optimise warehouse capacity”, reflects Mr Dusan Materna, CEO at New Wave. “The company now has an extremely advanced and highperformance logistics centre.”

Economically and ecologically effective

Mon, 14 Nov 2011 08:16:00 +0100

Sustainability is currently one of the most important aspects of logistics. Construction services and plant engineering experts, as well as logistic systems operators agree that the rapid development of information technology, including material and system development, primarily in the intra-logistics sector, offer excellent prospects for achieving a balance between economy and ecology. Green Logistics is the keyword that links intra-logistics with the economy and/or process safety via cutbacks such as optimizing time, space, employee, energy and materials-utilization. This requirement for resource efficiency applies during implementation of new systems as well as during retrofits, and/or the modernization of system and plant components. The 2010 intra-logistics forum organized by SSI Schäfer, Giebelstadt at the end of September spelled out the options of the plant engineers and operators in the disputed area between economy and ecology. The introduction of various projects and presentations regarding new developments were part of this forum. Users as well as experts of the Fraunhofer Institute presented practical examples, the latest trends and innovative solutions. More than 170 representatives from 89 companies and 27 countries used this event to exchange information presenting proven solutions and the latest technological developments. The focus: increase added value using aspects of effective Green Logistics….with striking results.Gerhard Lohmeiter, environmental consultant at Hellmann Worldwide Logistics, presented real-time initiatives of the company implementing the requirements of Green Logistics. Logistics service provider Hellmann is specifically concentrating on the reduction, respectively neutralization of CO2-emissions ocurring during transport, storage and commissioning. Sample calculations indicated how the daily CO2-emissions can be reduced by around 50,000 kilograms by relocating 300 swap trailers from the street to the train. Hellmann used different route planning and emission calculation tools for that.In addition to the transport carriers and the introduction of CO2-neutral transports, Hellmann targeted the processes of the entire value added chain - especially their energy consumption. The steps taken range from the utilization of regenreative energies via subsequent utilization of energy-efficient lamps including insulation of the buildings. Hellmann identified the utilization of energy-efficient conveyor and lifting technologies as another important goal.For conveyor and lifting technology particularly significant progress has been made in the last few years using plant engineering regarding resource efficiency. SSI Schäfer summarized one topic titled „Green Crane Technology“. Following consistent improvements in the mechanics using measures such as effectiveness-optimized drives, lightweight construction and rolling resistance-low material combinations between wheel and rail, possible energy savings are decisive for the new and future developments of the systems. Up to 50 percent of the energy consumption can be reduced by the integration of power recovery systems - depending on superior system and order structures. Resulting in an ROI for modern technology utilization of less than three years. The same applies to the models of a wear reducing, low-load operation (20 percent saving, ROI less than 1 year), the DC-link connections (12 %, < 1 year), an intelligent drive cycle control (8 %, < 1 year) or energy-efficient, efficiency-optimized drives (4-8 %, 8-15 years).The more these approaches are used, the larger the possible savings. This is documented for a small parts storage and retrieval system (MiniLoad) with draft cycles using a comparative calculation presented on the Intra-logistics forum in Giebelstadt. The energy consumption is reduced when using a power recovery system from around 71 Watt/h to around 54 Watt/h. Using a power recovery system in combination with a low-load operation or using a power recovery system with low-load operation and intelligent driving cycle control reduces the energy consumption up to 45 Watt/h – resulting in an energy savings of more than 35 percent. An SSI Schäfer system using the latest developments which are based on intelligent drive cycle controls with axis-overall energy exchange instead of refeed, already available in the standard version, result in possible savings between 20 and 25 percent.Similar results can be achieved when utilizing energy-efficient motors in the conveyor system. Here, especially developed drive synchronous motors are characterized by highest energy efficiency (efficiency class 4). As innovator and leading plant manufacturer, SSI Schäfer faces the responsibility for implementing comprehensive resource efficiency in intra-logistics, especially for conveyor systems and in the development of new systems. This begins with planning and layout and ranges from efficiency-optimized drives to actual consumption points to stressing awareness for responsible power consumption.Economy and ecology do not have to be in conflict with each other. This is supported by examples where up to 50 percent energy savings are possible with longitudinal and lateral transports using modern conveyor systems compared to conventional systems. These energy savings can be achieved with careful system planning focused on energy efficiency. Other aspects such as pallet lifters with counter-weights using the load weight when lowered, on-site reduced stand-by-consumption or the energy-saving process optimization using parallel storage and retrieval certainly contribute to that.Effective, value added processes in intra-logistics are the main focus of development work at SSI Schäfer. This is done with the awareness that avoiding waste and the installation of efficient processes can increase the competitive capability which meets the requirements of „Green Logistics“. However: Useless resource consumption has to first be identified as useless. Efficiency loss from overstocking and stockout, multiple handling of items, insufficient warehouse and commissioning strategies, missing replenishment processes, time-consuming voucher systems and lacking transparency are often identified too late. The requirements for intra-logistics increase parallel, especially regarding performance, flexibility, on-demand-reaction, ergonomics and environmental compatibility.In fact, dynamic systems from SSI Schäfer such as the Schäfer Carousel System (SCS), the SQS, the Schäfer Case Picking (SCP) or the mobile racking systems are the most important components for the design of system solutions incorporating ecologic aspects of profitable land and building utilization. Combined with a high-performance Warehouse Management System (WMS) the processes can be designed both inhouse and company-wide under the aspects of sustainability - for example by optimization of the loading order or design of multimodal transports.Stephan Stucky from the Swiss logistics provider Coop clarified during the Intra-Logistics Forum which capabilities for resource efficiency can already be developed using the correct commissioning process. Coop controls the processes in 16 regional and national distribution centers with SSI Schäfer’s IT-systems, SSI Schäfer WAMAS and SAP as the superimposed system. Controlled by the WMS-system WAMAS it is commissioned, in addition to the main procedure, with Pick-by-Voice with a forklift terminal (whole pallets), manual terminals (small amounts) and Pick-by-Light (deep-freeze area). This results in flexible, transparent processes with optimum efficiency, respective savings, of the existing resources. The implementation of the high-performance and homogeneous logistics system of SSI Schäfer led to a significant decrease of process interface and reduction in complexity at the reference Valora project as presented by Stefan Gächter (area manager logistics Valora). In addition to the standardization and safety of processes, Valora can show a reduction of logistics costs of 14 percent.Efficiency and responsible handling with available resources do not have to contradict. This is demonstrated using the examples as well as by the presentations and reports from the Intra-logistics forum. Beginning with the construction planning concept integrating high-quality, environmental building materials which reduce energy demand via the Green Crane Technology to modern dynamic systems and ergonomically designed work stations, SSI Schäfer has an extensive product portfolio which is similarly designed for resource efficiency and economy.The newest products which will be presented to trade experts at CeMAT 2011 prove that SSI Schäfer is not yet satisfied with their results. The resource efficiency is apparent from all systems and components. New material flow systems such as the Schäfer AutoCruiser save up to 80 percent energy compared to conventional systems. Even more: SSI Schäfer as innovation leader is continuously involved in numerous research projects. Results directly influence product development. Newest example: cooperation in energy-efficiency studies for small-parts storage and retrieval machines at the institute for logistics and material flow engineering at theUniversity Magdeburg. These studies deal with recording energy consumption and recovery for drive axles. SSI Schäfer as research partner provides a one-aisle warehouse with a Schäfer Miniload Crane (SMC) and supports the analysis, data evaluation and their integration into new developments.If the challenges of sustainable, environmental logistics are subsequently integrated in the development of innovative solutions, proccess optimization for resource efficiency, and the implementation of Green Logistics, they can then be economically combined with each other. With its range of products and services, SSI Schäfer covers the entire spectrum. In the future, SSI Schäfer will continue to play a significant role in the research and development of new technologies and information systems that further the implementation of Green Logistics and sustainability. Resulting innovations will provide companies with considerable room for improvement in their in-house value added chain, especially in intra-logistics. Concerning intra-logistics, this became apparent during the Intra-logistics forum 2010 in Giebelstadt. The high standards of Green Logistics can be aligned with economic requirements of modern business strategies. Investments that are well worth it. It is up to corporate decision makes to utilize these options.

Seamless, future-oriented solution

Fri, 28 Oct 2011 08:04:00 +0200

Among beer connoisseurs, the original Budweiser lager from the Budweiser Budvar Brewery in the Czech Republic is one of the world's best beers. Brewing history has been made in the town of České Budějovice since 1265. And, since the end of the 19th century, these delicacies originated in the Czech Joint Stock Brewery, which subsequently became the Budweiser Budvar brewery. The brewery now produces around 1.3 million hectolitres of beer each year. Almost half of the production is exported to around 50 countries on every continent. In Germany alone, over 200,000 hectolitres of Budweiser Budvar beer are sold – and the trend is on the up-swing. As a result, bottling production lines and internal logistics in Budvar have been continuously modernised since 2005. The most recent development: a 26 metre high-bay racking system. In three aisles, 3000 pallet storage locations are available for pallets with a weight of up to 900 kilograms which are directly connected to production. The contract to implement the project, including the logistics concept, roof and wall construction, steel framework and pallet conveyor technology, was awarded as part of a bid process to intra-logistics specialist SSI Schaefer, Giebelstadt, as the general contractor. "We were looking for a solution that met our complex requirements using the latest technology", explains Pavel Panek, Head of Logistics and Purchasing at the Budvar brewery. "The key objectives included maximum utilization of existing limited space, 100 percent process control, real-time tracking and the integration of our RFID-led block warehouse into the new Warehouse Management System which is integrated with existing ERP system. SSI Schaefer offered the best concept to meet these needs with an attractive price/performance ratio."Assembly work on the warehouse construction was started in March 2009. The work was completed in less than 20 weeks, including technology and sheathing. The warehouse went into operation with the first incoming pallets in August 2009, as scheduled. The new plant has been running at full operation since the end of September 2009. Up to 50 HGVs are loaded at the outgoing goods gates of the new Budweiser logistics centre each day to send the precious brew on its way to over 50 countries around the world. "This is achieved without any problems due to the transparent goods flow, the additional capacity and fast throughput using the plant technology", confirms Panek.However: "The high bay racking system demanded a little creativity even during the basic planning stage", reflects SSI Sales Executive Jan Rindt. "Firstly, the spatial specifications were critical, and secondly, the goods flow and the storage space management of existing warehouse structures had to be integrated." Together with the brewery, the necessary warehouse capacity was defined and an appropriate layout created. "With the specified height of 26 metres for storing 3000 pallets of finished products, a building with a conventional steel or steel/concrete hall construction was quickly dismissed due to time restrictions, engineering and financial reasons", explains Rindt. Instead, work began on a silo design high bay racking system almost six metres below ground level. In terms of statics, the self-supporting racking also forms the basis for securing the external shell and the roof.When selecting the materials for the high bay racking system, special precautions against excessive heat buildup and against the effects of frost needed to be taken into consideration including fire protection criteria. Sandwich panels with high insulation properties and a high fire protection rating, as well as heat-dissipation flaps installed on the roof ensure that required thermal conditions are met.A further spatial consideration: Lengthwise in front of the high bay warehouse there is a large consolidation and preparation area. This restricted the number of warehouse aisles in the high bay warehouse. To achieve the required number of storage positions in the three-aisle warehouse, and to fully utilise the existing, available space, the first row of shelves and the storage and retrieval devices in the first aisle were designed for double-depth storage. Single-depth storage is provided in the two other racking aisles, "this means we quickly have direct access to the single pallets needed", confirms Head of Logistics Panek.The materials flow:The beer crates or cartons stacked on 120 x 80 cm pallets in production using palletizing robots pass through the high bay warehouse via roller track and conveyor belt technology to the transfer station. Around ten metres above the warehouse ground level, the contours and weights of the goods are recorded, and entered into the Warehouse Management System installed by SSI Schaefer. Controlled by WMS (storage location assignment) and control technology (conveyor technology drives), the pallets are then conveyed to a pallet lift. The remaining processes are controlled by the WMS. The lift transfers the pallets either directly to an outgoing goods table in the direction of the block warehouse or onto a transfer table into the high bay racking storage and retrieval devices. A transfer station has been set up for inside storage into the high bay racking system. A rotary table ensures that the pallets are aligned correctly. For pallets with stackable goods that need to be buffered in approximately 4000 storage spaces from the previous stock of the existing block warehouse, information technicians needed to deploy all their skill and cunning. "At the start of the project, Budweiser decided to apply the principles and strategies for controlling the automatic high bay racking system in the existing block warehouse as well", explains SSI Sales Executive Rindt. "A key feature was that the warehouse processes in the block warehouse are processed via Radio Frequency Identification (RFID). As a result, inventory management and process control functions needed to be integrated into the new WMS both for the automated high bay racking system and for the manually operated block warehouse equipped with RFID."To accelerate the inward and outward storage processes in the block warehouse, Budweiser places considerable emphasis on avoiding unnecessary delays via storage space scanning and confirmation sequences. “Therefore we have decided to use RFID not in connection with product but in connection with storage location” accents Panek. All warehouse channels in the block warehouse are therefore identified using RFID tags. In addition, RFID tags are also fitted to all transfer stations on the conveyor system. Display is used to assign the jobs to the fork lifts from the WMS. The fork lifts are equipped with RFID aerials. When a fork lift drives into the storage channel, the fork lift information is automatically captured and read by a reader. The job information stored on the WMS also defines whether the fork lift carries out inward or outward movements, and in what volume. "The liquids in the environment itself can represent a challenge for the RFID", says Rindt. "What is more, the different technologies and control processes need to be programmed into the WMS."The result is "a highly efficient Warehouse Management System that takes the features and parameters of the individual storage zones into account and unites the warehouse system to create a compact unit", explains Head of Logistics Panek. A comprehensive overview of the utilisation level of the system and resources is also provided using a visualisation system installed by SSI Schaefer.For order picking, the WMS initiates the outward storage processes in the high bay racking system and in the block warehouse. With its speed of 130 metres per minute and a lift of 54 metres per minute, the storage and retrieval devices achieve a throughput of up to 100 two-way movements per hour. The outgoing pallets pass via the installed conveyor technology with roller tracks, chain conveyors and corner switchers to the acceptance station for the fork lifts that are connected directly to the high bay racking. At the same time, the RFID-aided order picking processes are carried out in the block warehouse. In the preparation area in front of the high bay racking system, the jobs are then compiled and prepared for dispatch."A seamless and compact, future-oriented solution", summarises Panek. "As part of a rapidly and reliably implemented project – in terms of the complexity of the task – SSI Schaefer designed an intralogistics concept for our processes that provides maximum warehouse capacity and throughput with maximum space utilisation. The integrated process control has also resulted in the minimisation of order picking errors. Our objectives have been realised in full."And there's more. The system is designed so that Budweiser Budvar will not have any problems in the future integrating further changes to business processes into the plant. For example, a rail connection is already being planned. In the medium-term, the conveyor technology leading into the block warehouse and high bay racking system that is currently used to convey 120 x 80 cm pallets only will be re-designed to transport the larger industrial 120 x 100 cm pallets. "This will require external guidance of the pallets", explains SSI Sales Executive Rindt. "Thanks to the modular design of our components we will then be able to retrofit our systems at the appropriate time without any significant downtime for Budweiser."