Vertical Lift Module or Vertical Carousel?

If you want to increase the efficiency of your picking operations or store a large volume of goods in a small space, both Vertical Lift Modules and Vertical Carousels are good options. Each case must be evaluated individually, but in summary, you can think of it this way:

Vertical Lift Module

This is ideal if you have the space to build large and multiple machines, and if your cargo varies widely in shape and volume.

Ideal for small products with little variation in design and volume; it can be installed in a small space and provides efficient storage even if the machine’s size cannot be maximized.

If you need further assistance in evaluating Vertical Storage Systems, we can provide our expertise. Please don’t hesitate to contact us—we’ll help you with the analysis and finding the right machine for your needs.
In the text below, you’ll find our guide to help you understand the differences between a Vertical Carousel and a Vertical Lift Module—and perhaps even figure out which one is best for you!

Vertical Storage Systems come in a variety of designs, but the most common types are Vertical Lift Modules (sometimes called VLM or Vertical Lift) and Vertical Carousels (sometimes called paternoster lifts). When it comes to storage in small spaces, both options are perfectly suitable, but there are still notable differences between the machines. Below, you can read more about the differences and get some tips on when a Vertical Lift Module or a Vertical Carousel is best suited.

What's the difference?

The main difference between Vertical Lift Modules and Vertical Carousels lies in the design of the drive mechanism. A Vertical Lift Module consists of two sections, each containing multiple trays, where a crane in the center of the module retrieves the trays and moves them to one or more picking stations.  A Vertical Carousel is like a conveyor belt (carousel) where all the shelves are linked together and the entire belt moves in the same direction when a shelf is to be presented at the picking opening of the Vertical Storage System. The word “Paternoster” comes from “Our Father” – “Pater Noster” – and the rosary beads used when saying prayers.

The Benefits of a Vertical Lift Module

  • In certain circumstances, a Vertical Lift Module can store products that are heavier, as well as those with greater variation in height and width. Because the crane lifts only one tray at a time (rather than rotating a conveyor belt carrying all the cargo), a Vertical Lift Module can handle heavier products.

  • A Vertical Lift Module can generally be built on a larger scale—that is, taller, wider, and with greater depth. In other words, floor space can be converted into a Vertical Lift Module capable of holding a very large volume of goods. This is made possible by the structure’s load-bearing capacity.

  • The software connected to a Vertical Lift Module offers slightly more options when it comes to compressing trays and adjusting the frequency for each tray. Some manufacturers have automatic height detection at the opening in their machines, which allows the Vertical Lift Module to compress the trays efficiently. This is probably the single biggest advantage in terms of fill rate. For machine types that do not have this feature, the user typically agrees on 3–5 height variations to be used at the time of purchase.

Here you will find our Vertical Lift Module buttons For sale.

Compared to Vertical Lift Modules, Vertical Carousels offer the following main advantages:

  • A Vertical Carousel is a good option if you have many small items of the same size. In this case, you can take advantage of the Vertical Carousel’s ability to accommodate many small storage locations on each level.

  • Vertical Carousels are available in smaller models with a shallower depth; therefore, a Vertical Carousel can be a good solution if you want a Vertical Storage System but don’t have unlimited space in your warehouse, storage area, or factory.

  • The design of a Vertical Carousel is often somewhat simpler compared to other automated storage systems; as a result, Vertical Carousels are often less expensive and easier to maintain.

Here you will find our Vertical Carousel For sale.

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