Carlsberg Poland in the Okocim Brewery has launched a fully automated pallet transport system. It allows for buffering and transporting loads with return packaging from external warehouses to locations where they are depalletised.
So far, packaging transport has traditionally been carried out using forklifts. Through the implementation of an automated conveyor line, the forklift fleet and hence the associated handling and operating costs were reduced.
Limiting the number of forklifts will significantly reduce emissions. And the administration of pallets to depalletiser areas by means of an automated transport line increases operator safety. The line does not limit communication routes and eliminates the risk of collision with infrastructure facilities,” explains Marcin Będlin, warehouse logistics manager at Carlsberg Poland.
The investment in the ecological pallet distribution system was carried out together with Europa Systems.
Where can an automated pallet handling system be used?
The work of an automated pallet handling system involves the automated storage and dispensing of empty pallets, transporting loads on pallets and integration with warehouse processes as well as production processes.
The load capacity reaches 2 t per pallet, and at a speed of up to approx. 30 m per minute the capacity of the line can reach 200 pallets per hour.
The system can be used both for typical wooden pallets and for others: made of plastic and steel (including the most popular sizes: 1200 x 1000 mm, 1200 x 1200 mm). You can also use chests – pallet boxes, as well as steel boxes with different substructures.
The solution can be used in production plants, warehouses, distribution centers – wherever there is a need for full automation of internal transport processes. The company Europa Systems claims that the largest demand for this type of solutions is reported by industry representatives: packaging, wood and metal, FMCG, automotive and building materials.
Thanks to the conveyors, pallets are available in the warehouse
In the case of the Okocim warehouse, the automated system consists of over 50 devices with a total transport length of 70 m. The conveyor train has been integrated with the existing production line. It is also a buffer zone for pallets with empty bottles. The new system has also been equipped with a module that counts transported units, which is very helpful with internal controls and settlements.
The decision to use eco transport results not only from potential savings but also from the very strategy of companies that want to be perceived as socially responsible. Care for both the external environment and the persons working inside the warehouse are nowadays an important image element of brands who respond to conscious consumers. At the same time, the same arguments are the advantages of automation in intralogistics,” explains Ilona Miziewicz-Groszczyk, marketing and business development director at Europa Systems.
Thanks to the system, iw was possible to accommodate 1.7 thousand pallets in the finished goods warehouse.
Photo: Europa Systems