Companies dream about easy storage and handling of items, the possibility to maximize the usage of floor space, and the resulting economic benefits. Achieving these benefits, though, can become a nightmare due to the difficulty to comply with all those requirements. Keeping this in mind, some manufacturers offer the storage carousels, with which they hope to provide an alternative that combines all solutions.

Since 1995, Vast-Besth (phone 55 11 - 5093 9211) has represented Hänel GmbH, a manufacturer of vertical storage systems, which offers two carousel models: the ROTOMAT and the LEAN-LIFT. “With them one can optimize the available area, reduce the number of operators involved in executing a task, as well as avoid wasting time”, says Andrea Haimerl, the company’s managing partner. According to Andrea, the use of this equipment has other advantages as well; such as the flexibility provided by high-performance control units that allow it to be linked to material flow systems, automated logistics and transportation systems.

Hänel´s ROTOMAT model works with the vertical carousel principle that brings the goods to the operator and not vice-versa. According to the manufacturer, this carousel saves at least 50% in floor space, protects the stored articles, and the logistical management is 100% computer-controlled, while maintaining the ergonomic convenience that assures the operators’ appropriate posture. The equipment can be furnished with intermediate levels and/or shelves for up to 600 kg per storage level. The stored items can range from 178 mm to 609 mm in height.

The company Hänel also offers the LEAN-LIFT, also known as “Shuttle”, which works with the principle that each container is transported in a linear manner by a vertical elevator that stores them in the front or back of the equipment. The storage locations are controlled by a MP12D microprocessor. This equipment may also be connected to barcode readers, a central processor or even a net. After photoelectric sensors determine the goods height, their exact storage location is defined by the MP12D. The equipment also counts with the APS-factor (“Access Priority System”) which produces an internal statistic for how often items are accessed. The ones that are accessed more often are placed closer to the equipment’s access point without involving the operator. Both models can be built with up to 12 m and a capacity of up to 500 kg per container. The products to be stored can range from 55 mm to 740 mm in height.

Magazine:  Log&Mam  - no. 126 - April 2001