Hydroscand’s long-item picking challenges were solved using an automated storage system.
During spring 2015, Hydroscand Oy expanded its main location in Turku by an additional 1,000 square meters of production space. Following this expansion, the facility now offers approximately 4,000 square meters of combined production and warehouse space. By merging hose and pipe production, the goal was to enhance efficiency in both manufacturing and logistics processes. Automating pipe production storage plays a key role in streamlining logistics, explains Product Manager Jukka-Pekka Hietaniemi.
Storing long, 6-meter hydraulic pipes posed several challenges, which Hydroscand aimed to resolve through storage automation. Jukka-Pekka explains that the previously used cantilever racks were difficult to load, and picking items from them was slow and even risky. “Sometimes we had to climb on stools, so this new solution significantly enhances workplace safety,” he adds.
The automated storage system currently in use features 15 shelves, each capable of handling loads up to 1000 kg. These shelves can be loaded directly from transport vehicles using a forklift. Accessing individual items from above is easy thanks to the specialized retrieval mechanism in the paternoster. Combined with the saw and bending machines, this automated solution positions Hydroscand as a faster and more flexible supplier for its customers.
Benefits of Automated Long-Item Storage at a Glance:
- Enhanced workplace safety—no climbing required!
- Saves space in both storage areas and layout planning.
- Faster loading and retrieval of items.
