Interior and boxes for Vertical Storage Systems
One Vertical Carousel or a Vertical Lift Module typically have empty trays without any interior or boxes. To create compartments or storage spaces on the trays, drawers, dividers, boxes, or other specially designed solutions are therefore used. Fittings for storage systems are not just a simple way to create compartments or storage spaces; with the right fittings, you can also improve both ergonomics and space utilization. In this guide, you’ll find some tips and insights from us regarding fittings for your Vertical Carousel and Vertical Lift Modules.
Interior design for Vertical Lift Modules
All Vertical Lift Modules trays are essentially completely bare when sold used or straight from the factory. In cases where the trays are very wide and designed to bear heavy loads, there may sometimes be stabilizing strips running across the trays, but otherwise they are bare. Below, we list some of the most common interior configuration options along with the pros and cons of each solution.
Corrugated boxes
One option offered by nearly all suppliers of automated storage systems is the purchase of corrugated boxes. Corrugated boxes are available in a variety of standard sizes, and the ready-made solutions typically available are usually sufficient to meet your needs. If you require completely custom dimensions, these can be ordered, but at a higher cost.
+ Low cost
+ Can be customized to fit the cargo
– Dirt sticks to it (not suitable for oily or greasy items)
– Not flexible; custom box sizes apply
Existing plastic boxes
If you’re switching from using shelving units to purchasing a Vertical Lift Module, there’s a good chance you already have plastic bins you can use. It’s certainly a simple solution, but it might not be the best one.
+ Low / no cost
+ Easy to move with the goods
- The boxes are usually not sized to fit the trays (low fill rate)
- The boxes are not always sized to fit the contents (low packing density)
Sumobox
Sumobox is a subsidiary of Kardex Remstar and is the only known manufacturer to have developed bins specifically for Vertical Lift Modules. Sumobox is a flexible and modular plastic storage system for Vertical Lift Modules. Learn more at www.sumobox.se.
+ Custom-sized as standard for Vertical Lift Modules
+ Adjustable height
+ Lightweight
+ Flexible partitions that can be moved as needs change
- High cost
- Available only as a new purchase for Kardex Vertical Lift Modules
- It takes a little time to put together
Metal interior design
Many suppliers of Vertical Storage Systems offer the option of purchasing custom-sized, flexible metal shelving units. The design of this type of shelving typically allows you to reposition the dividers to adjust the size of the compartments.
Very durable
+ Flexible
+ ESD-safe
+ Dirt doesn't stick
- High cost
- Not height-adjustable
- Relatively heavy
Tape
In fact, tape can be used—and is used—to divide trays into compartments and storage spaces. This can be particularly useful if you need to store entire boxes or bulky items in your Vertical Lift Module and don’t require a large number of storage spaces per tray.
+ Low cost
+ The decor doesn't take up any space
- Does not prevent goods from moving
- Unclear classification
ESD-compliant interior
Some products need to be stored in what are known as ESD-safe areas. ESD stands for Electro Static Discharge and means that the material is sensitive to static electricity, which can be generated by friction between different materials. To address this, ESD-safe solutions are available—something most shelving system suppliers are familiar with and offer. If you need ESD-safe boxes or storage solutions, look for:
• Sumobox boxes in ESD-rated versions
• Filter boxes
• ESD-rated plastic trays
• Metal interior
Interior and boxes for Vertical Carousels
For vertical Carousels, there is a slightly wider selection of standard bins and manufacturers—largely because solutions designed for tray systems work exceptionally well in Vertical Carousels. The most important thing to consider when selecting bins for your Vertical Carousel is to make the most of the tray depth. Standard depths for Vertical Carousels are 400 mm, 500 mm, and 600 mm. The choice of bins and how you utilize them can have a significant impact on the fill rate of your Vertical Carousel.
If you are planning to purchase boxes for your Vertical Carousel, the following suppliers are commonly used:
• Arca drawers
• Stemo
• Perstorp
• AJ products
