No time wasters
February 1st 2005

Ever-increasing pressure on prices means companies need a perfectly coordinated material flow. SSI Schaefer believes its KDR Live storage systems have a part to play

Hampshire-based SSI Schaefer, provider of storage and material handling equipment solutions, is committed to developing new and longterm mutually beneficial customer partnerships – an example of which can be found with Robert Bosch.

Currently at the very heart of a new ‘lean logistics’ strategy being implemented at the world’s largest alternator production facility on the outskirts of Cardiff, Robert Bosch’s Miskin complex has chosen to use the new KDR live storage systems from SSI Schaefer.

The SSI Schaefer KDR live storage system has been developed to handle a wide range of materials. The equipment is constructed from standard components assembled in a modular format to enable rapid configuration of the most efficient and ergonomic pick face.

Using smaller stand-alone KDR live storage bays, sited at various stages along the assembly line and designed to eliminate unnecessary bending or stretching on the part of assembly line personnel, SSI Schaefer’s product offering additionally allows for easy picking from the front and easy replenishment from rear.

As well as eliminating the time and effort spent previously by assembly operatives in searching and looking for relevant items, Bosch’s new lean manufacturing strategy is aimed at reducing inventory levels and lead times and improving overall efficiency and productivity. Other key benefits for Bosch include:

• First in first out stock rotation
• Balanced storage depth
• Guaranteed picking availability
• Visual factory
• Presentation sequencing
• Integration with conveyor systems

The system is characterised by the quick and easy way it can be adjusted to fit any individual requirement. Variable heights can be selected with the moveable crossbeams and be adjusted to fit the item being handled. They can also be fitted with a wide range of accessories, such as fulllength rails, front chutes to improve access and label holders for positive identification.

SSI Schaefer can also integrate the storage beds system into pallet racking and customers’ existing racking system, using a specialised converter clip attachment.

Adoption of Bosch’s newly implemented lean logistics strategy at Miskin, could well materialise at other group facilities in Spain, Brazil and India in the foreseeable future.

Market trends Changes within the current market have made Schaefer even more aware of the importance to maintain partnerships and build on a ‘face to face’ business approach in an ever-changing world driven by the internet. These include increasing speed of response in design and implementation of systems, dramatic cost increases in steel due to the China expansion, pressure to hold and reduce costs in a volatile raw material market and increasing competition from Southern and Eastern Europe.

SSI Schaefer has also recognised the new trends appearing within the industry with more and more companies looking to establish formal links and agreements with equipment suppliers who can support them across Europe and the world. Also apparent is the increased investment in automation, in markets that need to respond rapidly to customer orders, for example multimedia and healthcare. Third party logistics (3PL) companies are expanding from their traditional UK base into Europe, notably Eastern Europe, which is particularly active.

The globalisation of markets and increasing pressure on prices mean that companies must meet rising demands to reduce unit costs. The key to success is a perfectly co-ordinated material flow. Rapid access times and high delivery capacity can consistently be achieved using automated systems.

SSI Schaefer foresees the continued expansion of global markets and the need to support the increasingly sophisticated supply chain needs through efficient and flexible dynamic storage and handling techniques. A new Mobile Pallet Racking system using the latest technology has been introduced, a market which is very much under supplied, with many companies lacking the capability. Schaefer aims to ensure the constant development of steel rolling technology to improve lead times, guarantee quality and reduce costs.

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