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Day: 30 April 2024

Expansion of Temperature-controlled Perishables Hub

Posted on by David Priestman

IAG Cargo, the cargo division of International Airlines Group (IAG), has recently invested €1.5 million into the expansion of its temperature-controlled perishables facility in Madrid. This forms part of a total €12 million invested in the business’ Spanish hub over the last 6 years.

As the first point of entry into the EU for perishables, IAG Cargo boasts an extensive network of connections from Latin America, with Madrid serving as a vital centre for distribution of produce across the region. This investment will increase the total capacity of the facility by 45% and will home 1,340 square metres of dedicated temperature-controlled space for perishable goods, offering customers the largest cooling chambers at Madrid airport. These chambers bring improved reliability and efficiency to IAG Cargo’s cold chain operations in Europe and are monitored 24/7 to ensure temperature sensitive goods are held in the correct conditions.

Fernando Terol Armas, Director of Spanish Hub and Operations at IAG Cargo said: “We are thrilled to announce this latest investment in our Madrid facility, which further demonstrates our commitment to providing the highest quality service to our customers. With the expansion of our temperature-controlled space and state-of-the-art cooling chambers, we can now offer even greater capacity for perishable goods, ensuring their integrity is maintained throughout the supply chain. This investment will enable us to continue to serve as a vital link between Latin America and Europe, and we look forward to supporting our customers’ growth in this region.”

Ramon Rey, International Director of Eurobanan that houses tropical fruit brand Isla Bonita added, “We are delighted by the additional capacity IAG Cargo has created at their perishables facility in Madrid. This development will allow us to continue delivering premium quality fruits and vegetables to consumers across Spain year-round. With enhanced logistics, IAG Cargo enables us to ensure that freshness is never compromised.”

The expansion of this facility will benefit customers importing fruit and vegetables, including asparagus from Peru and Los Angeles, papayas from Brazil, and mangos from Dominican Republic, as well as meat from Argentina and Uruguay, and fish, such as hake and salmon, from Chile.

read more

New Madrid-Basel Service For IAG Cargo

 

Expansion of Temperature-controlled Perishables Hub

Posted on by Keith McKinley

IAG Cargo, the cargo division of International Airlines Group (IAG), has recently invested €1.5 million into the expansion of its temperature-controlled perishables facility in Madrid. This forms part of a total €12 million invested in the business’ Spanish hub over the last 6 years.

As the first point of entry into the EU for perishables, IAG Cargo boasts an extensive network of connections from Latin America, with Madrid serving as a vital centre for distribution of produce across the region. This investment will increase the total capacity of the facility by 45% and will home 1,340 square metres of dedicated temperature-controlled space for perishable goods, offering customers the largest cooling chambers at Madrid airport. These chambers bring improved reliability and efficiency to IAG Cargo’s cold chain operations in Europe and are monitored 24/7 to ensure temperature sensitive goods are held in the correct conditions.

Fernando Terol Armas, Director of Spanish Hub and Operations at IAG Cargo said: “We are thrilled to announce this latest investment in our Madrid facility, which further demonstrates our commitment to providing the highest quality service to our customers. With the expansion of our temperature-controlled space and state-of-the-art cooling chambers, we can now offer even greater capacity for perishable goods, ensuring their integrity is maintained throughout the supply chain. This investment will enable us to continue to serve as a vital link between Latin America and Europe, and we look forward to supporting our customers’ growth in this region.”

Ramon Rey, International Director of Eurobanan that houses tropical fruit brand Isla Bonita added, “We are delighted by the additional capacity IAG Cargo has created at their perishables facility in Madrid. This development will allow us to continue delivering premium quality fruits and vegetables to consumers across Spain year-round. With enhanced logistics, IAG Cargo enables us to ensure that freshness is never compromised.”

The expansion of this facility will benefit customers importing fruit and vegetables, including asparagus from Peru and Los Angeles, papayas from Brazil, and mangos from Dominican Republic, as well as meat from Argentina and Uruguay, and fish, such as hake and salmon, from Chile.

read more

New Madrid-Basel Service For IAG Cargo

 

4 Factors Driving Change In Industrial Manufacturing

Posted on by David Priestman

Robert O’Donoghue from Hyster Europe reveals the key trends and challenges affecting industrial manufacturing warehouse operations and discusses how Hyster® materials handling equipment is responding to changing requirements.

1. Labour market challenges

Shortages of warehouse staff and lift truck operators remain widespread. In addition, many industrial employers are experiencing a high staff turnover in certain areas of their operation, such as order picking. An important consideration with a stretched workforce is the individual operator’s needs. Warehouse equipment should be designed for operator comfort to help deliver the best productivity levels. However, ergonomic design and operator assist features can also play an important role in keeping equipment operators motivated and content, which may help support better staff retention.

In situations with a high staff turnover, it is also important that warehouse equipment, such as order pickers, stackers, and pallet trucks, are simple to use and easy to get started with after training.
These factors have been accounted for across the range of Hyster warehouse equipment. For instance, the Hyster S2.0SD Platform Double Stacker is built with an operator centric design that features a large platform with rubber floormat to provide excellent grip and side/rear operator compartment panels. Additional options to enhance the operator experience include multipurpose bars and clamps, clipboard, and a bottle holder.

2. Booming Demand

Property costs and rental rates have increased, making the price of warehouse floorspace more costly per square metre. At the same time, industrial manufacturers need to adapt to seasonal and cyclical fluctuations in demand for their products. Warehouses are increasingly storing more product lines. Loads need to be handled with high precision for maximum efficiency, and to avoid damage. Traceability is important, so more warehouses are adopting management software and devices, like barcode scanners, to promote high accuracy, and, in turn, customer satisfaction.
However, more stock means that more room is needed. To increase pallet spaces on the same footprint, some Hyster customers have been raising racking heights in the warehouse. In response to this, the Hyster R1.4-2.5 Reach Truck series was updated to incorporate a 14-metre mast for the R2.0HD model as a standard option.

Some industrial manufacturing applications are also now storing items outdoors to maximise use of their space. These businesses need trucks that can be used both inside and outside to optimise their fleets, and costs. The robust new Hyster RO1.6-2.0 Reach Truck models, for lifts up to two tonnes, are designed to work outdoors, as well as in indoor warehouses. They feature Super Elastic Tyres for load and drive wheels that suit conditions in an outdoor storage yard, plus heating and wiper options, allow the truck to be tailored for outdoor use as needed.

3. Environmental awareness

An increased focus on environmental and sustainability objectives is resulting in some businesses considering their power options for materials handling equipment more closely. Lithium-ion batteries are often a popular choice for these operations. The latest lines of Hyster warehouse equipment respond to this with lithium-ion battery options. For instance, when specified with a lithium-ion battery, the new Hyster Outdoor Reach Truck requires no off-gassing or watering and there is no risk of acid spills. Lithium-ion batteries may also drive high productivity. They enable rapid opportunity charging during breaks, with no adverse effect on the battery, to support multi-shift operations and maximise fleet uptime.

Transitioning to lithium-ion needs to be quick and easy. The Hyster S2.0D Platform Double Stacker, for example, is designed to be ‘lithium-ion ready’, with a controller that automatically recognises the chemistry of the battery (lithium-ion vs. lead-acid). This means there is no need to manually change any parameters to manage the battery. The best power option will always depend on the particular application’s needs.

4. The growth of automation

Some businesses are exploring opportunities for automation to help fill the gaps in their talent pool. At the same time, technology is often becoming more accessible and affordable.
Robotic warehouse equipment and lift trucks may help companies to optimise their workforce, automating repetitive tasks and allocating human resource to more value-added activities.
Hyster Robotics can help. The solution enables Hyster Robotic lift trucks and warehouse equipment to be used by human operators if needed and does not require extensive changes to warehouse infrastructure. Therefore, if the warehouse needs to change or expand, the robotic equipment can be adapted without the whole automation project having to start from scratch.

read more

Hyster Launches 7-9T Range With Fully-Integrated Lithium-ion

 

4 Factors Driving Change In Industrial Manufacturing

Posted on by Keith McKinley

Robert O’Donoghue from Hyster Europe reveals the key trends and challenges affecting industrial manufacturing warehouse operations and discusses how Hyster® materials handling equipment is responding to changing requirements.

1. Labour market challenges

Shortages of warehouse staff and lift truck operators remain widespread. In addition, many industrial employers are experiencing a high staff turnover in certain areas of their operation, such as order picking. An important consideration with a stretched workforce is the individual operator’s needs. Warehouse equipment should be designed for operator comfort to help deliver the best productivity levels. However, ergonomic design and operator assist features can also play an important role in keeping equipment operators motivated and content, which may help support better staff retention.

In situations with a high staff turnover, it is also important that warehouse equipment, such as order pickers, stackers, and pallet trucks, are simple to use and easy to get started with after training.
These factors have been accounted for across the range of Hyster warehouse equipment. For instance, the Hyster S2.0SD Platform Double Stacker is built with an operator centric design that features a large platform with rubber floormat to provide excellent grip and side/rear operator compartment panels. Additional options to enhance the operator experience include multipurpose bars and clamps, clipboard, and a bottle holder.

2. Booming Demand

Property costs and rental rates have increased, making the price of warehouse floorspace more costly per square metre. At the same time, industrial manufacturers need to adapt to seasonal and cyclical fluctuations in demand for their products. Warehouses are increasingly storing more product lines. Loads need to be handled with high precision for maximum efficiency, and to avoid damage. Traceability is important, so more warehouses are adopting management software and devices, like barcode scanners, to promote high accuracy, and, in turn, customer satisfaction.
However, more stock means that more room is needed. To increase pallet spaces on the same footprint, some Hyster customers have been raising racking heights in the warehouse. In response to this, the Hyster R1.4-2.5 Reach Truck series was updated to incorporate a 14-metre mast for the R2.0HD model as a standard option.

Some industrial manufacturing applications are also now storing items outdoors to maximise use of their space. These businesses need trucks that can be used both inside and outside to optimise their fleets, and costs. The robust new Hyster RO1.6-2.0 Reach Truck models, for lifts up to two tonnes, are designed to work outdoors, as well as in indoor warehouses. They feature Super Elastic Tyres for load and drive wheels that suit conditions in an outdoor storage yard, plus heating and wiper options, allow the truck to be tailored for outdoor use as needed.

3. Environmental awareness

An increased focus on environmental and sustainability objectives is resulting in some businesses considering their power options for materials handling equipment more closely. Lithium-ion batteries are often a popular choice for these operations. The latest lines of Hyster warehouse equipment respond to this with lithium-ion battery options. For instance, when specified with a lithium-ion battery, the new Hyster Outdoor Reach Truck requires no off-gassing or watering and there is no risk of acid spills. Lithium-ion batteries may also drive high productivity. They enable rapid opportunity charging during breaks, with no adverse effect on the battery, to support multi-shift operations and maximise fleet uptime.

Transitioning to lithium-ion needs to be quick and easy. The Hyster S2.0D Platform Double Stacker, for example, is designed to be ‘lithium-ion ready’, with a controller that automatically recognises the chemistry of the battery (lithium-ion vs. lead-acid). This means there is no need to manually change any parameters to manage the battery. The best power option will always depend on the particular application’s needs.

4. The growth of automation

Some businesses are exploring opportunities for automation to help fill the gaps in their talent pool. At the same time, technology is often becoming more accessible and affordable.
Robotic warehouse equipment and lift trucks may help companies to optimise their workforce, automating repetitive tasks and allocating human resource to more value-added activities.
Hyster Robotics can help. The solution enables Hyster Robotic lift trucks and warehouse equipment to be used by human operators if needed and does not require extensive changes to warehouse infrastructure. Therefore, if the warehouse needs to change or expand, the robotic equipment can be adapted without the whole automation project having to start from scratch.

read more

Hyster Launches 7-9T Range With Fully-Integrated Lithium-ion

 

How to get an Accurate Cost for Mezzanine

Posted on by David Priestman

In order to receive the best mezzanine design and to achieve an accurate quotation it is key to supply the right information early on, advise MiTek Mezzanine.

Designing a mezzanine floor is a complicated process, with a whole host of factors to take into consideration. When it comes to construction, the biggest factors will typically be the type and amount of steel used, along with the installation time required. The design stage is critical – it’s the opportunity to find the ‘sweet spot’ that provides sufficient strength and rigidity for your current and future needs but minimises overall cost.

Load capacity

The first thing to think about is the required load capacity. Do you need the same capacity across the whole platform, or across all floors in a multi-level solution? If not, it may be possible to use a hybrid mezzanine (constructed from hot-rolled and cold-formed steel) for the areas with higher loading and a cold-formed floor elsewhere. For example, if you need strength for pallet conveyors, we can use hot-rolled beams underneath just this section.

Slab condition

Another important consideration is the condition of your slab. A poor base will support a lower column load, meaning your mezzanine will need more columns. This adds cost in terms of both material and installation (as well as limiting how you can use the space below). As these costs multiply up over large floors, it may pay for you to invest in your slab instead.

Deflection limits

If you require less deflection – for example, due to sensitive equipment or if you’re using your floor for offices – you will need a more rigid structure. This means bulkier joists and beams, adding to the cost of your steelwork. Bracing affects cost too. While a fully braced frame is standard, moment frames can be specified as an alternative. Having an unbraced structure will typically increase costs by between 10 and 15%, due to different components being required. The geographic location of your mezzanine is another crucial factor here. If your project is in a seismic area – parts of Italy, for example – it’s really important to have early engagement with the mezzanine company, as seismic designs are not straightforward.

Site conditions

As installation costs form a significant proportion of the total cost of a mezzanine, factors that hamper work on site have a large impact. Will working hours or physical access be limited? Will specialist plant be required and will the presence of other contractors affect the build sequence? Then there are the required fire and decking specifications, plus the number of accessories – such as stairways and pallet gates – required.

With so many factors to consider, it is imperative that your mezzanine supplier receives as much information as possible. This is why MiTek provides a comprehensive RFQ (request for quotation) document for potential customers to complete. Of course, we’re happy to give you a ballpark price, but a detailed specification will avoid nasty surprises later on! When you receive quotes from mezzanine companies, check whether you’re comparing like for like. For example, have all Health & Safety measures been considered, such as the need for safety netting and edge protection? Look for accreditations that will give you peace of mind.

read more

Mezzanine Floors Help Warehouses Save

 

How to get an Accurate Cost for Mezzanine

Posted on by Keith McKinley

In order to receive the best mezzanine design and to achieve an accurate quotation it is key to supply the right information early on, advise MiTek Mezzanine.

Designing a mezzanine floor is a complicated process, with a whole host of factors to take into consideration. When it comes to construction, the biggest factors will typically be the type and amount of steel used, along with the installation time required. The design stage is critical – it’s the opportunity to find the ‘sweet spot’ that provides sufficient strength and rigidity for your current and future needs but minimises overall cost.

Load capacity

The first thing to think about is the required load capacity. Do you need the same capacity across the whole platform, or across all floors in a multi-level solution? If not, it may be possible to use a hybrid mezzanine (constructed from hot-rolled and cold-formed steel) for the areas with higher loading and a cold-formed floor elsewhere. For example, if you need strength for pallet conveyors, we can use hot-rolled beams underneath just this section.

Slab condition

Another important consideration is the condition of your slab. A poor base will support a lower column load, meaning your mezzanine will need more columns. This adds cost in terms of both material and installation (as well as limiting how you can use the space below). As these costs multiply up over large floors, it may pay for you to invest in your slab instead.

Deflection limits

If you require less deflection – for example, due to sensitive equipment or if you’re using your floor for offices – you will need a more rigid structure. This means bulkier joists and beams, adding to the cost of your steelwork. Bracing affects cost too. While a fully braced frame is standard, moment frames can be specified as an alternative. Having an unbraced structure will typically increase costs by between 10 and 15%, due to different components being required. The geographic location of your mezzanine is another crucial factor here. If your project is in a seismic area – parts of Italy, for example – it’s really important to have early engagement with the mezzanine company, as seismic designs are not straightforward.

Site conditions

As installation costs form a significant proportion of the total cost of a mezzanine, factors that hamper work on site have a large impact. Will working hours or physical access be limited? Will specialist plant be required and will the presence of other contractors affect the build sequence? Then there are the required fire and decking specifications, plus the number of accessories – such as stairways and pallet gates – required.

With so many factors to consider, it is imperative that your mezzanine supplier receives as much information as possible. This is why MiTek provides a comprehensive RFQ (request for quotation) document for potential customers to complete. Of course, we’re happy to give you a ballpark price, but a detailed specification will avoid nasty surprises later on! When you receive quotes from mezzanine companies, check whether you’re comparing like for like. For example, have all Health & Safety measures been considered, such as the need for safety netting and edge protection? Look for accreditations that will give you peace of mind.

read more

Mezzanine Floors Help Warehouses Save

 

Dematic Completes Commissioning of AutoStore Project

Posted on by David Priestman

Dematic has recently finalised the delivery and installation of an AutoStore system for Righi Elettroservizi SpA, a leading Italian company in industrial automation, system integration and information technology.

“We have been impressed by Dematic’s global network of industry expertise and its organisational structure, which allows it to efficiently implement the type of high-priority solutions required by our management,” explains Luca Righi, Operation and Supply manager.

The difficulty of material procurement had grown into a global challenge over the last two years, impacting the daily business at Righi Elettroservizi, which determined it needed to develop a quick response to the changed supply chain environment to remain on course with its growth strategy. The company operates nationally and worldwide either directly or through subsidiaries. Thus, its aim was to improve its storage and performance of its production order preparation.

As a response to the ongoing supply chain challenges, Righi Elettroservici targeted expanding its warehouse stock to cope with longer lead times with replenishment seen as a critical component of its strategy. Headquartered in Mercato Saraceno, not far from coastal town Rimini, the company was convinced the Dematic solution would be the best response to the global supply challenges at its site location.

The compact goods-to-person automated storage and retrieval system installed by Dematic, a global leader in the design, installation and support of intelligent automated solutions, requires no additional floor space and facilitates storage of supplemental stock. Installed on an area of 170 square metres (1,830 square feet) the stand-alone system can provide storage for up to 480 cubic metres (5,167 cubic feet) of products. The solution incorporates a 16-level grid with 5,800 bins (330 mm), seven R5 robots and two picking carousel ports as well as a single put-away carousel port.

The automated solution has been integrated into the company’s existing materials storage environment, providing a boost in efficiency, quality and safety. It has also proven to be instrumental in faster and more accurate handling of large quantities of items, which has led to more efficient management of anticipated increases in production volumes.

With the Dematic solution, which took 11 months to complete, the expectation is to accelerate order completion as well as to quickly accommodate customer demands, raising their level of satisfaction. A pick is now completed in 35 seconds, which represents a time savings of nearly 50 percent.

Commissioning of AutoStore

The Dematic solution has also led to marked improvement in material traceability and Righi can more easily pinpoint the path of the material – arrival, storage and exit – within its facility. An added benefit has been the full integration of the Autostore™ system with the company’s previously installed warehouse management system without any new software investment. It has allowed warehouse operators to continue managing the material flow using a system they were already familiar with.

Rosario Filomena, a sales manager with Dematic, comments, “the system provides the benefits the customer anticipated for handling the materials needed for switchboard production, And Righi Elettroservizi, which has been a longtime supplier to Dematic, has become one of our best customers!”

read more

AutoStore Joins Dematic’s Supply Chain Optimisation Portfolio

 

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