WAREHOUSE REPORT | STORAGE
Hubmaster provides multiple aisle stacker systems for high-density solutions.
can operate in very narrow aisles, just 22in (56cm) more than the depth of the pallet: “We are able to go as high as 80ft (24m) in a high-density warehouse working in single aisles as a push-back system.” She also points out that in a single aisle
its system can store seven pallets deep: “That is a great way to utilise your vertical storage, which is not something that typical AGVs, for example, would be able to do as they have height and weight limitations. “We also provide multiple-aisle stacker
crane solutions that create high-density solutions with a height of 45ft (14m) tall. Because we are able to switch to multiple aisles and access pallets on all sides with the single Hubmaster stacker crane, this is a great alternative for a lot of warehouses,” says Fitsova. Bito’s Hutchison says there are even
higher options: “High bay automated warehouses served by stacker cranes can theoretically attain heights in excess of 40m, though just over 30m is more common. “A high-rise narrow aisle structure will
make good use of vertical capacity and efficient use of floor space. As a rule,
narrow aisle facilities are serviced with man-operated stacker cranes or order picking trucks. This allows picking of smaller unit loads from all racking levels. Guide rails and inductive steering ensure that service vehicles always keep the ideal distance to the installation.” Of course, ASRS and similar automated
systems can also go high and can offer much denser storage for small items than pallet racking allows. There are other benefits to automated storage too aside from exploiting space. By reducing human errors automated systems also minimise risks and offer operational efficiencies. In fact, LaBruna reckons that
automated material handling is likely to become a crucial component of intralogistics: “Automation offers a range of advantages to companies… and businesses that postpone the implementation of automated warehouses could potentially face significant challenges in establishing a competitive presence in the future marketplace.” Automation is sometimes viewed as being expensive, but with e-commerce
xxiv | November 2023 | Overhead Crane Material Handling Industry Supplement
driven demand for just-in-time fulfilment the business case is stacking up for more distribution centres. Bito’s Hutchison says “automation is stepping closer into the economic justification zone for more operators who are juggling higher volumes, a growing demand for faster order fulfilment and greater value on the one hand, with rising staff costs on the other”.
Lidia Fitasova of Hubmaster.
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