ADAPT & FLOW
Jan 12, 2010
BITOs new ADAPTA-FLOW quickly turns static pallet racking into dynamic flow racksand back again
Adapta-Flow is a carton live storage innovation, from BITO Storage Systems, which can be retrofitted to an existing static racking structure to convert it into carton flow racking by using the rackings beams. Companies order picking from pallets can therefore very quickly start to order pick from live storage levels.
Ideally suited to retrofitting, Adapta-Flow is compatible with all types of pallet racking and can be used with either single or double deep systems to provide First-In, First Out (FIFO) storage.
Ready-mounted modules simply drop onto the beams of the existing racking. This means that flow lanes on each level can be configured quickly and easily to suit the needs of the application and they can be easily modified at any time to adapt to changing business needs: the modules can even be easily removed to return the racking to its original state if necessary.
This is particularly useful for seasonal trends, for example companies servicing the Christmas market. For 8 months of the year these companies are utilising bulk storage and then for 4 months of the year they need to serve their largest peak in their business so need to change their static bulk storage into picking stations.
The Adapta-Flow racks turn a static pallet racking system into one that offers reduced pick travel routes and times through compact and clear presentation of stock items. The flow racks enhance control of sell-by dates and production batches while the dense storage characteristics of the flow lanes allow more product lines to be stored at the pick face. Furthermore, both productivity and safety can be enhanced because with flow racks the replenishment and picking are carried out in separate aisles.
There are two variations to Adapta-Flow: 1) Roller lanes and 2) Lanes with Conveyor Rollers.
1) Roller Lanes are suited to cartons and bins of any size. They comprise roller tracks installed with a standard spacing of 100 mm, however these can be adjusted in 8.5 mm increments to suit the storage unit. The cylindrical plastic rollers have a 26 mm diameter and a 28 mm pitch. By using even track spacings, an entire level can of flow racking can be turned into a roller bed without predefined lanes allowing a mix of storage units.
2) Conveyor Rollers accommodate cartons and bins in lanes with a predetermined width and are suited for storage units that have difficult travel characteristics and heavy goods of up to 30 kg. The galvanised rollers have a 25 mm diameter and a roller pitch of 84 mm.
