Features/Benefits Provided: Increased storage density via a mini load AS/RS with 3,312 rack locations Improved part tracking via integrated ERP & Warehouse Control System (WCS) AS/RS outputs to conveyor for manual picking A mini load Automated Storage & Retrieval System (AS/RS) organizes small spare parts for a mining, smelting and refining company in a centrally located and easily accessible location within the Utah-based facility.

A mining, smelting and refining company needed to improve the efficiency of its small spare parts operations. The company’s spare parts, including electronic components and heavy machine parts, were located at 20 sites and over many acres. The spare parts operations for both large and small parts shared a similar problem. The quantity, location and condition of inventory was virtually unknown. When parts were required, the employees had to walk the facility and search for items to find out if the company even had the part in inventory.

To improve the process, the company added a hybrid system using automated and conventional material handling solutions. Conventional racks now hold and organize large items. Small spare parts are stored in metal pans with 220 pounds capacity and were moved into a two-aisle single-deep Daifuku mini load Automated Storage & Retrieval System (AS/RS) centrally located and easily accessible within the facility. The mini load AS/RS holds a variety of parts stored in 3,312 rack locations.

Increased storage density is achieved by storing multiple part numbers in each pan. The small AS/RS integrates with a U-shaped output conveyor where employees pick items and also return them for storage. Both aisles have a U-shaped conveyor with a 7 item queue capacity. Standing 31' tall, the AS/RS utilizes vertical space and 2,000 SQF of floor space. Installation took less than 3 months. A WCS manages operation of the machines and tracks inventory quantity and location for improved picking. The customer’s ERP system links to the WCS communicating tasks in real time. Thus, the log and physical inventories are in agreement, enabling improved access to parts.

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5202 Douglas Corrigan Way
Salt Lake City, UT 84116
(801) 359-9900
info@DaifukuAmerica.com
www.DaifukuAmerica.com