Types of AS/RS Systems and Their Ideal Applications
Automated Storage and Retrieval Systems (AS/RS) are advanced solutions designed to optimize inventory storage and retrieval efficiency. There are two primary types of AS/RS systems commonly used in industrial and warehouse settings: the Unit-Load AS/RS and the Mini-Load AS/RS. Each is tailored for different operational needs and load capacities.
Unit-Load AS/RS
The Unit-Load AS/RS is designed for handling large and heavy items, typically ranging from 0.5 to 2.5 tons. This system is ideal for palletized inventory storage, especially in warehouses where pallet storage space is limited but rapid throughput is essential.
It is particularly well-suited for environments with high pallet turnover, cold storage facilities, or locations where land and labor costs are high.
A Unit-Load AS/RS typically features narrow-aisle racking systems that can be constructed to heights exceeding 30 meters, significantly maximizing vertical storage space. These racks are paired with automated cranes responsible for storing and retrieving pallets.
There are two main types of cranes:
- Fixed-Aisle Cranes: These operate within dedicated, narrow aisles. Each crane travels both vertically and horizontally within its assigned aisle to perform storage and retrieval tasks.
- Moveable-Aisle Cranes: These cranes are not fixed to a single aisle. Instead, they can move across multiple aisles, offering greater flexibility and efficiency in environments where the number of aisles exceeds the number of cranes.
Mini-Load AS/RS
The Mini-Load AS/RS is intended for lighter applications, such as handling totes, trays, or cartons, with a maximum load capacity of approximately 35 kg per unit. This system is ideal for operations that require high SKU density but have limited space, making traditional carton-flow racking impractical.
Mini-Load systems serve multiple functions, including:
- Acting as buffer zones for temporary storage
- Sequencing and releasing products efficiently to picking or palletizing stations
- Automatically replenishing pick locations in a manner similar to carton-flow systems
These capabilities make the Mini-Load AS/RS a versatile solution for warehouses aiming to maximize space utilization and streamline order fulfillment.
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