Kardex Remstar displays new Intralogistics Solutions at MODEX 2020
Kardex Remstar is improving eCommerce and distribution operations with new intralogistics solutions. On display will be a new unique solution, FramePick. With this efficient, dynamic and flexible system for fast order fulfillment, companies can drastically reduce the turnaround time of orders. The LR 35 Vertical Buffer Module (VBM) with FramePick and the Shuttle XP Vertical Lift Module (VLM) will be at MODEX in Atlanta, GA March 9-12, 2020 in booth 8811. The new FramePick solution consists of the LR 35 in combination with order picking trolleys for picking articles. These order picking trolleys are simply placed behind a Put Frame with put-to-light displays. The operator can connect the customer order bins on the trolley to the displays with a simple scan. When one of the LR 35 VBMs presents a new storage bin, the displays show how many items should be placed in which bins. When all orders are complete, the trolley with the full bins can be easily transported to the packaging area. And the new trolley with empty bins takes over the position in the Put Frame. This new solution can reduce walking distances by up to 65% and reduce floor space by 80%. In addition to the LR 35, the Shuttle XP integrated with pick to light technology and the new Power Pick OnBoard control will also be in the booth. By utilizing the vertical space from floor to ceiling, vertical storage systems eliminate wasted space commonly found in shelving systems to recover up to 85% floor space. Allowing organizations to create floor space for additional manufacturing or other revenue generating activities can be easily cost justified. Lastly, there will be live demonstrations of the Remote Support platform. There are two features included; first, Remote Assistance, which manages remote diagnostics, allowing for simple maintenance requests to be performed remotely instead of onsite reducing downtime. Secondly, Remote Analytics, which gives users access to machine data anywhere via a Web Browser. This analysis tool guarantees a high level of process reliability for storage unit operations. From vertical carousels to horizontal carousels, software to pick to light technology, Kardex Remstar offers a range of solutions to build your future. In addition, the various life cycle services offered round out the Kardex Remstar product offerings.
Versatile Senergy®Motor Drive Rollers from PULSEROLLER feature quiet operation and energy savings
Senergy® motor drive rollers from PULSEROLLER are powerful, efficient, and versatile solutions suitable for virtually any unit handling conveying application. Senergy MDRs can reach speeds up to 1000 fpm, with a starting torque up to 215 in/lbs. This combination of speed and power allows them to be used in lower speed, heavy-duty applications such as pallet handling, as well as for high-speed carton or tote handling. Senergy MDRs operate at a low 40 dba, quieter than a typical conversation. They utilize a safe and effective 24VDC power supply and consume up to 60% less energy than alternatives. Senergy’s power and efficiency are derived from a unique planetary gearbox design and a powerful brushless DC motor. Typically used in zero pressure accumulation or roller transportation applications, Senergy features only 11 gearbox combinations. This makes ordering and stocking MDRs much more manageable. PULSEROLLER offers a base Senergy model as well as the Senergy Ai (Advanced Intelligence). The base model is designed for use with JST connectors and utilizes eight wires for connection to the control card, while the Ai works with M8-style connectors and uses just four wires for connecting to the controller. A microprocessor inside the Ai model holds and processes critical data about the motor, including its part number, serial number, manufacturing date, actual motor temperature, run cycle time, overload count, gearbox ratio and motor positioning data. All of this data is available via PULSEROLLER’s free to download EasyRoll software. All Senergy MDRs are driven by PULSEROLLER’s ConveyLinx controller which simultaneously controls two MDRs.
MHS wins Product of the Year award for HC-Loop sorter
Cross-belt sorter wins conveyors and sortation category in annual product competition MHS a single-source provider of material handling automation and software solutions, took home a product of the year award from Material Handling Product News (MHPN) for its HC-Loop sorter. The company’s cross-belt sortation system won first place in the conveyors and sortation category, triumphing over three other finalists. MHPN readers cast 3,750 votes to decide winning products in 13 categories. The MHS HC-Loop sorter is ideal for operations facing e-commerce challenges like massive order volumes and high package variety, handling everything from flats and bubble mailers to bagged items and corrugate cases. It uses an automatic centering system that precisely locates items in the middle of the conveying surface for consistent divert accuracy, enabling narrower divert chutes that enable greater sortation capacity while maintaining an efficient footprint. “With parcel and e-commerce operations experiencing such extreme growth in order volumes, advanced sortation solutions are critical pieces to enable fast, efficient delivery,” says Rush Fullerton, vice president, business development, MHS. “Our HC-Loop sorter is a solution designed for the needs of today’s economy, and recognition from MHPN readers confirms that.” The sorter’s modular design allows for layout flexibility and uses fewer components to simplify maintenance and improve reliability. It also features the new MHS linear induction motor that offers smooth, consistent operation for precise speed control and a long system lifespan.
Horizontal Bucket Conveyor… for 45° product rotation
Multi-Conveyor recently built this Multi-Conveyor recently built this dual strand, roller chain conveyor with bucket-style attachments to transport loaves of bread – ultimately ending up at a robotic pick zone. Alternating back-to-back buckets are horizontal and rotated 45-degrees. The back-to-back design was specified based on how the loaves were being both loaded and unloaded. Dual strand stainless steel roller chain designs may have pre-tensioned linkage with attachments needed for the customized buckets. This design required every-other-bucket 45 degree rotation. Another unique customer request were square cutouts in lower end of the buckets for customer-supplied photo eyes to detect product inside the buckets. Sanitary requirements were stainless steel, continuous and cleaned welded design. Heavy duty brackets were added to mount inside the customer’s bread making machine providing additional stability and alleviating any flex in the conveyor itself. In general, the customer requested a “beefy design” for longevity, bucket placement and timing, simplistic bucket cleaning by removal and replacement of buckets, and overall maintenance purposes.
Multi-Conveyor LLC constructs wire mesh cooling conveyor to transport bakery dough
Multi-Conveyor LLC has recently built a stainless steel, three-tiered wire mesh belt cooling conveyor to transport bakery dough over 94′ feet. An existing fryer feeds the 195° degree product onto this bolted-construction conveyor. It then moves through three tiers of 34′ by 20″ cooling wire mesh before discharging onto an existing icing machine. A pitched “chute” guides the product as it gently rotates on its back side. The product then moves through another 34′ through the second tier then uses the same angled chute approach on the opposite end, dropping onto the third tier. The system only runs about five feet per minute, during the entire 94′ of conveyor belt, allowing time for product to reach the required cooled temperature. Conveyor discharge ends feature minimum diameter nose-bar or minimum diameter sprockets for ease of product transfer. Learn more about wire mesh belt conveyors. Then, choose from over 90 videos of all conveyor technologies that may be used for snack food and bakery products by visiting https://www.multi-conveyor.com/multi-media-center/videos
Wildeck earns MHEDA’s MVS Award for 2020
Wildeck, Inc., one of the nation’s leading suppliers of material handling solutions, has earned MHEDA’s (Material Handling Equipment Distributors Association) MVS (Most Valuable Supplier) Award for 2020. Each year, this distinguished industry honor is award to MHEDA’s member companies that demonstrate a consistent, documented commitment to their dealer network, employees and community. To be eligible for the MVS Award, member companies must provide evidence of their commitment to MHEDA’s Five Areas of Excellence, which include industry advocacy, distributor advocacy, business networking, continuing education and business best practices. Additionally, documented proof of a company’s on-going dedication to safety and “giving back” is taken into consideration when making award determinations. MHEDA is the premier trade association dedicated to serving all segments of the material handling business community and represents close to 650 companies in the material handling equipment business. Located in suburban Chicago, the association provides services to companies seeking to improve their business through education, networking, benchmarking and best practices. “Wildeck is a long-standing member of MHEDA and is honored to be recognized again as a Most Valuable Supplier,” said Keith G. Pignolet, Wildeck’s Executive Chairman. “This award is truly a testament to our team’s continued focus on customer service and ability to develop first-in-class material handling solutions that maximize our customers’ available space.” “Achievement of MHEDA’s MVS status represents members who have demonstrated a commitment to their business and its employees, their industry and also to the communities within which they serve,” said Mike Vaughn, 2019 MHEDA Chairman of the Board and Chief Financial Officer of Liftech Equipment Companies in East Syracuse, NY.
MHS doubles the size of its global headquarters
Expansion of existing facility accommodates need for greater manufacturing capacity, headcount MHS, a single-source provider of material handling automation and software solutions, announces the opening of its expanded global headquarters at 131 Griffin Way in Mt. Washington, located just outside of Louisville. The facility now offers over 400,000 square feet of space, enough to house manufacturing, engineering, sales, marketing and executive management functions. “When we moved into the Mt. Washington facility in 2017, it was a big, brand new space. But in just one year, it became apparent we needed more room,” says Greg Judge, president, MHS. “The expansion enables us to continue our rapid growth and further cements our presence in the Mt. Washington community.” The state of Kentucky is providing up to $2.65 million in tax savings through the Kentucky Enterprise Initiative Act and Kentucky Business Investment program, subject to MHS hiring 300 new Kentucky-based employees. Between hiring the new employees and the cost of the headquarters expansion, the MHS investment adds up to more than $20 million. The new construction features a new on-site fitness center for employees and specially commissioned artwork to commemorate the company’s significant milestones and history in the Louisville metropolitan area. For employment opportunities with MHS, interested parties can visit www.mhsglobal.com/who-we-are/careers.
Vanderlande to present innovative concepts and solutions at PARCEL Forum
Vanderlande will share a number of market insights relating to automation and storage solutions at this year’s PARCEL Forum at the Gaylord Texan Resort and Convention Center in Dallas, Texas. The company’s Postal and Parcel Market Director, Rob Qualm, will be a featured speaker at the event on October 30 and discuss the need to reshift storage to multi-functional hubs. Consumer demand is at an all-time high and parcel companies must cope with the increasing demand for speed, flexibility and higher service levels. In addition, building space in urban areas is already at a premium and labor is increasingly hard to find. Until a few years ago, the ‘push’ concept was the standard procedure, in which products were pushed through the supply chain to be sent out for delivery. However, this led to high levels of consumer dissatisfaction due to the limited delivery options available. In the ‘pull’ concept, the buyer is firmly in control by demanding convenient delivery windows and keeping track of items at all times. Automation is essential in realizing these new requirements and Vanderlande has vast experience in the smooth integration and installation of automated storage and retrieval systems. The inherent flexibility of such sorting solutions will allow parcel hubs to seamlessly move away from traditional ‘pull’ methods, embrace new business models and rapidly respond to changes in the market. “Adaptability within the supply chain is needed to support this new approach and parcel center operations must change to remain as efficient as possible,” says Sean Wallingford, President Warehouse and Parcel North America. “Market trends predict that more delivery routes, additional local storage near consumers and multi-functional hubs are necessary to meet the increasing requirements for final-mile deliveries and to manage costs more effectively.” “Modular sort-on-demand solutions offer the potential to create a temporary storage option to quickly adapt to changing delivery times or locations,” adds Qualm. “Hubs will benefit from higher levels of service, flexibility and operator efficiency, as well as shorter loading times, the effective consolidation of orders and enhanced route planning. In addition, integrated and intelligent automation software can provide full control over the entire process.”
Signode highlights unique Unitizing and Bundling solutions at CorrExpo 2019
Signode, a manufacturer of a broad spectrum of consumables, tools, software and equipment to optimize end-of-line packaging operations and protect product in transit, is highlighting two of its unique solutions for the corrugating industry at CorrExpo 2019 in Denver, CO. Divided in two exhibit spaces, Signode booth #300 features stretch wrapping technologies for greater unitized pallet loads and booth #301 showcases high-speed bundling solutions. For those looking to unitize corrugated pallet loads, Signode introduced its Octopus™ Twin Series automatic rotary ring stretch wrapper to the corrugated industry. Able to wrap up to 150 loads per hour, the Octopus™ Twin features the classic ring-type method of wrapping coupled with a unique dual film carriage design. Its robust construction and well-balanced design maximizes efficiency and reliability. The machine’s ring design allows for unlimited wrap patterns due to its ability to begin and end film cycles at any vertical point on the load. This inherent feature increases flexibility and reduces film usage up to 25%. With dual film carriages, the Octopus™ Twin further reduces film roll changes by 50%, significantly increasing labor savings, uptime and overall machine efficiencies. In addition, the wrapper utilizes an “s” style film carriage. When compared to traditional wrap systems, the “s” wrap pattern improves pre-stretch levels, can better handle a variety of films, and significantly lowers the overall cost of ownership. This highly intuitive machine is also easy to operate and install. Loaded with benefits, the Octopus™ Twin Series can accommodate variable load sizes and features multiple machine options to meet varying packaging challenges. For more information, attendees can hear from Signode’s Mark Wolschlag, national account manager — automatic equipment, during the “What’s New Sessions” on the show floor, October 15. Attendees to booth #300 can also learn more about the entire Octopus™ line of automatic rotary ring wrappers or Lachenmeier stretch hood equipment and film solutions also offered. With a walk across the aisle, attendees are greeted by Signode’s high-speed bundling solution in booth #301. On display is the SIG-VCS automatic corrugated cross strapping and squaring bundler. The SIG-VCS is designed to strap standard folded boxes and provide high-speed bundling, squaring and strapping for variable package sizes and configurations. With precise bundle compression and consistent strap tension and placement, it produces up to 25 squared bundles per minute for single strap applications. The SIG-VCS has flexible features like adjustable strap tension up to 10 levels and a control panel that stores up to 2000 different bundle combinations, making it easy to integrate into any operation with ease and a promise of maximum productivity. Package type and size can be changed in a matter of minutes, providing quick format changes and setup to keep production running at optimal speeds and reducing downtime. Much like similar Signode equipment already in the corrugated market, the SIG-VCS features Signode’s auto refeed technology, which automatically rethreads itself if a jam occurs and continues strapping, again, reducing downtime and increasing productivity. And for ease of overall routine maintenance, the SIG-VCS features a segmented metal chute system. Most machines have a plastic chute that begins to break down after continuous cycling and requires replacement. Its out-of-the-box operation coupled with countless productivity-based benefits makes it a top contender in its field for lowest total cost of ownership and reliability.
Tompkins International announces strategic realignment
New ecosystem provides clients with end-to-end solutions to meet the changing market needs for profitable growth Tompkins International, a comprehensive supply chain consulting and solutions firm, has announced a strategic realignment that will enable the company to better serve its clients across all industries. Driven by market changes and growth, Tompkins International has evolved its organization into six business units based on its thought leadership about the future of supply chains and its competencies in strategy, commerce, logistics and technology: Supply Chain Consulting Material Handling Integration Robotics Applied Technologies Fulfillment Services Digital Commerce “The integration of these six business units enables us to solely focus on exceeding our customers’ expectations today and in the future,” said Jim Tompkins, Chairman and CEO of Tompkins International. “Built upon our deep and broad-based expertise, our new ecosystem of best-in-breed products and services provides true end-to-end solutions for supply chain excellence and long-term success.” For more than 40 years, Tompkins International—led by Jim Tompkins—has helped shape the supply chain industry through its thought leadership, innovation and commitment to positioning clients for long-term profitable growth. As the industry continues to shift into the world of digital commerce, Tompkins International’s realigned supply chain ecosystem helps clients prepare not only for their current needs, but also future growth and opportunities. “In order to deliver an amazing customer experience, today’s supply chain solutions must be flexible but unbreakable, capable of adapting and constantly evolving to provide a series of options to address what is happening at any given moment and the expected near-term future,” said Tompkins.
Martin Engineering expands their support for Breast Cancer awareness
October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month in the U.S., and Martin Engineering is building on its previous fund-raising programs by expanding the company’s efforts to support the Susan B. Komen Foundation®. In 2017 and 2018, the firm raised a total of $7500 by contributing $50 for every special edition truck vibrator sold during the month, painted in the organization’s traditional pink color to draw attention and raise awareness. This year, Martin has added its 70-liter air cannons to the program, contributing $100 for every unit sold in October, with a goal of significantly increasing the total contribution. “According to the American Cancer Society, it’s estimated that there will be more than 268,000 new cases of invasive breast cancer diagnosed among U.S. women in 2019, as well as 2,670 new cases among men,” observed Martin Engineering Vibration Business Development Manager Susie Orlandi. “This disease impacts such a large number of people that just about all of us have been touched by it in some way. Our expanded 2019 program is intended to increase our contribution to the foundation, helping to fund research, treatment and support for the thousands of people who’ve been affected.” Martin Engineering has been a global innovator in bulk material handling applications for decades, with its industrial vibrators and air cannons both contributing to greater safety and productivity in mining, coal handling, cement manufacturing and a broad array of other industries. The firm specializes in advanced technologies for improving the performance of conveying systems, high-temperature processing, storage and transport of bulk materials. For many years, the Susan G. Komen mission has inspired the passionate employees at Martin Engineering to engage in grassroots efforts, including teams in the Peoria Memorial Race for the Cure, a Martin Race for the Cure in the company’s home town of Neponset, raffles, and tee shirt sales, with proceeds going to the foundation. As of October 1st, the firm has already surpassed its total donation from 2018. The Susan B. Komen Foundation was created in 1982, launching its famous Race for the Cure® shortly thereafter. The organization has contributed to a number of advancements, including the identification of genetic links, less-invasive surgical techniques and advanced drug therapies, as well as advocating for more federal funding of additional research and early detection programs. The foundation has invested over $3 billion in more than 60 countries since it was formed — helping to reduce breast cancer-related deaths by 40% between 1989 and 2016 — with an emphasis on supporting those with the fewest resources. With treatment options, community outreach, advocacy and other programs around the world, the organization has played a critical role in virtually every major advance to combat breast cancer – transforming how the world talks about and treats the disease and helping millions of breast cancer patients become cancer survivors. Data show that about 1 in 8 women born today in the United States will be diagnosed with breast cancer at some point in their lives. The good news is that many can survive the disease if it’s found and treated early. Regular mammograms remain the fundamental screening test, helping to promote early detection and treatment, when intervention is most effective. “In addition to the donation, programs like this generate media exposure and get people talking,” Orlandi said. “In addition to the donation, programs like this generate media exposure and get people talking,” Orlandi said. “It even helped inspire a customer of Bonnell Industries to order a pink truck equipped with a pink vibrator, after seeing our display at a trade show, increasing visibility and creating further ‘buzz’ for this very worthy cause.”
Qimarox shortens delivery time to two weeks
A top-quality product elevator that is ready for delivery in two weeks. That is the promise that Qimarox makes with its new Fast Lane Service. System integrators from around the world now have access to reliable, durable and affordable material handling components faster than ever before. And all at the same low prices. An increasing amount of time in projects, in production and logistics, is devoted to preparation. System integrators spend a lot of time consulting with customers about the exact design of, for example, a final packaging line or order picking system. And once the design has been established, there is often little time left for implementation. Qimarox is catering for this with the introduction of its Fast Lane Service. Thanks to this unique service, system integrators in urgent need of a product lift can have a Prorunner mk1 vertical conveyor at their disposal in two weeks. This ultra-short delivery time makes the product elevator an even more attractive alternative to other vertical conveyor systems. As soon as the order is received, Qimarox technicians start assembling the Prorunner mk1. No extra costs The Qimarox Fast Lane Service is possible thanks to the modular design of the Prorunner series. By using standardised, interchangeable components, most parts are in stock. Production then takes no more than two weeks. Then the product elevator in Harderwijk is ready for transport to the final destination. System integrators do not have to pay extra for the Fast Lane Service. The most important condition is that the stopwatch only starts once the invoice amount has been transferred. In addition, the service only applies to orders with up to four standard product elevators. If system integrators choose a modified design, production will take more time and the order will be added to the standard production planning. Reduction of lead times Qimarox Fast Lane Service is particularly suitable for system integrators on the Asian or American continent, who often have to deal with long transport times. With a production time of up to two weeks, these system integrators save valuable time. By assembling the product yourself, the transport volume can be reduced to a relatively small building kit. This even makes it possible to transport product lifts as air freight. The result: an even further reduction of lead times. The Fast Lane Service is being launched with the Prorunner mk1, the standard product elevator that is now in use in hundreds of sites around the world. If this service is successful, Qimarox will also develop Fast Lane options for the Prorunner mk5, mk9, mk10 and other components. The ultimate goal: ultra-short delivery times for all material handling components, including Qimarox’s palletisers.
Conveyor Belt giant, Smiley Monroe announce new US expansion
In a move driven by customer demand and strong industry forecasts, leading conveyor belt producers, Smiley Monroe has announced the opening of a manufacturing facility in Franklin, Kentucky. This $2m investment, assisted by Danske Bank and the Commonwealth of Kentucky, will create 30 new full-time jobs in the local area, as well as safeguarding jobs at the company’s headquarters in Lisburn, Northern Ireland. Over the past 40 years the company has grown to become the leading producer of highly customised Endless Conveyor Belts and Custom Rubber and Plastic parts to the mobile equipment sector, exporting to over 60 countries and supporting leading customers such as Powerscreen, Terex, Wirtgen, McCloskey, Astec Industries, Sandvik and CDE. The group’s success to date has been born out of a philosophy of staying close to its customers. With a growing customer base in the region and increasing political uncertainty / export restrictions manufacturing ‘in America for America’ was a natural strategic move. Smiley Monroe has all the pieces in place to be producing in the US by January 2020. With the political uncertainty both in the UK and beyond, protecting our export sales is paramount to growing the business and safe-guarding jobs in Northern Ireland.’ comments Chris Monroe, the group’s Global Sales Director. Having a base in the US will shorten lead times for customers and help us be more competitive in the tough US market. Removing barriers to trade will fast track our ambitious growth plans to increase turnover by 50% over the next three years.” Proximity to major customers, an available workforce combined with the financial and logistical assistance offered by the Commonwealth of Kentucky were the deciding factors when the base was chosen for Smiley Monroe Inc. The company will be working closely with Simpson County in the coming months to recruit a core team of Production Operatives and Support staff with employee numbers set to expand to 30 over the next 5 years as the operation ramps up. Smiley Monroe are no strangers to global expansion, with the new American facility mimicking the company’s successful India based factory. Initially this plant will produce the company’s core product -Endless Conveyor Belts as well as ‘Zip Clip®’ the mechanically fastened replacement belt which is taking the industry by storm. Many support services and non-core products will still be provided from Smiley Monroe’s Northern Ireland headquarters who will continue to service their local, International and European customers.
Fairbanks Scales announces new roller Conveyor Scale for manual conveyor weighing
Easy conveyor integration, reliable performance, accuracy and durability Fairbanks Scales Inc., the oldest scale company in the U.S. and the world’s leader in weighing equipment, announces the new Roller Conveyor Scale, designed to capture static weighments of products as they manually move down a conveyor line. Incorporating the Roller Conveyor Scale into a new or existing conveyor system helps material handlers, manufacturers, and distribution centers economically speed production and increase operational efficiencies. The new scale weighs products ranging from 0.2 to 250 pounds and accommodates objects sized from 32 to 36 inches. It is a cost-effective solution for capturing shipping weights, missing parts inspection, over/under checkweighing, common carrier chargeback protection or manufacturing. The complete Roller Conveyor Scale system features the frame (of typical floor conveyor height) with rails, rollers, integrated scale, and integrated 5-digit weight display. It comes with a 36-inch x 55-inch weighing platform, and integrated Instrument. The roller weighing platform design is unique to the scale market and comes with a proven track record for easy conveyor integration, reliable performance, accuracy, and durability. Seamlessly integrating into most conveyor systems, the new scale ships fully assembled for instant plug and play functionality. Installation is simple. Remove the unit from the box and adjust the feet to align the weighing platform with the conveyor line. Built for commercial or non-commercial applications, the scale is easily customized to fit unique application needs.
MHS expands in-house sortation portfolio with cross-belt sorter, shoe sorter designed for small items
New sorter offerings debut at Parcel+Post Expo MHS, a single-source provider of material handling automation and software solutions, announces two new additions to the company’s in-house sortation portfolio at the Parcel+Post Expo trade show in Amsterdam. At booth #430 in hall 8 until October 3rd, MHS is exhibiting its new HC-Loop cross-belt sorter and HC Smalls sliding shoe sorter. The HC-Loop is the company’s first cross-belt sorter, offering a flat carrying surface to handle the high volumes and package variety of e-commerce with maximum efficiency and accuracy. It includes an automatic centering feature that precisely locates items in the center of the conveying surface for consistent divert accuracy. This level of accuracy allows the system to use narrower divert chutes, boosting sortation capacity while maintaining an efficient footprint. The HC-Loop has a modular design for layout flexibility and space savings, and fewer components for improved reliability and simpler maintenance. The HC-Loop uses the new MHS linear induction motor that avoids contact and vertical attraction, for smooth, constant operation that contributes to long lifespans and precise speed control. The HC Smalls Sorter from VanRiet, an MHS company, is a versatile sortation solution designed for the smallest, lightest parcels, capable of handling items as small as 4-by-2-by-0.02 inches and as light as 0.1 pounds. The advanced sliding shoe design works in tandem with rounded slats to prevent thin products from becoming trapped underneath shoes and causing jams. It offers a high density of exits to maximize capacity in a space-efficient framework, with low noise levels and a maintenance-friendly design to keep operations productive. “These two new sortation products further demonstrate the capability of MHS as one-stop shop for distribution centers looking to handle the challenges of e-commerce with the latest technologies and responsive support,” says Rush Fullerton, senior vice president, business development, MHS. “From electronics and apparel to flats, bagged items and totes, these technologies position us to solve customers’ throughput challenge no matter the product mix they handle.” MHS draws on extensive controls engineering and design experience to offer complete, turnkey control solutions to leverage a variety of automated sortation systems for maximum effect. The company’s Lifecycle Performance Services group provides maintenance, support, modification and optimization services to keep systems running at peak efficiency and maximize long-term value.
UNEX Manufacturing showcases material handling equipment to keep the beer flowing
UNEX to highlight new ergonomic Keg Flow design which saves space, stores more kegs per pallet, allowing distributors to offer a greater number of beer variations UNEX Manufacturing, Inc., which provides innovative order picking and space-saving solutions, will be showcasing their new Keg Flow Solution at the National Beer Wholesalers Association (NBWA) Conference for America’s Beer Distributors in Booth 1015. The 82nd Annual Convention & Trade Show will be held September 22-25, 2019 in Las Vegas. “Beer kegs are typically hard to handle in the distribution center because of their awkward shape and often distributors will store kegs on the floor, which means order pickers have to bend and lift the heavy keg,” said Chuck Doty, Product Manager, UNEX Manufacturing. “UNEX invented Keg Flow to better handle kegs in the warehouse to save space and reduce bending.” Keg Flow offers an alternative to palletized keg storage by storing 1/6 kegs in a manner similar to storing cases on flow rack. UNEX uses steel rollers that are strong enough to support kegs without bending. A custom hanger slows the keg down on the track and a high roller stop at the end keeps the keg from toppling over. Keg Flow now incorporates 6-inch high guards for the 24-inch tall by 9-inch (sixth barrel) and 11-inch (slim quarter) diameter kegs to give the kegs more stability on the racks. The tracks have been made more versatile – 11.75-inch wide tracks allow storage of 8 kegs of 9-inch or 11-inch diameter on a 96-inch wide beam. When the first keg is pulled for distribution, the next one slides in right behind it. Each lane is labeled reducing mis-picks for order pickers. Most importantly, where two or four kegs were stored on pallets, now users get 8 or 16 kegs in the same space allowing distributors to offer a greater number of beer variations in a small space. Using Keg Flow, distributors have been able to increase their warehouse capacity while improving efficiency and productivity. The NBWA Conference features Keynote Speakers and Educational Seminars on topics like Business Growth, eCommerce, Talent Management, and Analytics. Hundreds of exhibitors will showcase solutions for everything from fleet management to safety. Visit UNEX in Booth 1015 to learn more about Keg Flow and other UNEX space-saving solutions for distributors.
Beumer celebrates 10-year anniversary serving Mexico Industrial Clients
BEUMER announced that this fall will mark the firm’s 10-year anniversary serving industrial customers in Mexico. BEUMER opened its Mexico City office in November 2009 to provide services for airport baggage handling systems. Since that time, the Mexico-based operations have expanded to include manufacturing and logistics industry clients in Mexico and Latin America as well as the Caribbean. “Thriving tourism is leading to a need for increased baggage handling capacity across Mexico’s airports,” said Ralph Buchholz, Executive Director of BEUMER Mexico. “This increase, along with the rise of e-commerce and the growing need for manufacturing automation, has allowed us to provide solutions that benefit our clients and the local economy as a whole,” he continued. BEUMER’s offerings in Mexico reflect the company’s material handling capabilities and range from providing concept engineering for airport renovations and expansions through developing sortation and distribution solutions for parcel centers to designing conveyor systems for the cement and mining industry. BEUMER’s signature projects in Mexico include designing and providing a fully adaptable packaging line for Cooperativa La Cruz Azul S.C.L, the country’s third-largest cement manufacturer, and upgrading the baggage handling technology at Mexico City International Airport’s Terminal 2. BEUMER’s Mexico operations currently include a main office in Mexico City and a satellite location in Cancun.