AN OPEN AND SHUT CASE:
... drawer storage cabinets VS. traditional shelving ...

by John Alfieri, Vice President, Sales and Marketing, Lista International Corporation

Opening arguments. The time has come to make a decision about your storage equipment. You have many options, but one over-riding important decision you need to make is whether to go with drawer storage cabinets or traditional shelving. Certainly, there are items that are well served by the old stand-by, industrial shelves. But I have evidence that proves, beyond a shadow of a doubt, that for most items, and under most circumstances, your decision should fall on the side of drawer storage cabinets.

 A case for full cubic space. It's likely there are limitations to the amount of space you can devote to storage at your facility, so you certainly want to make the most of the space you have. The fact is, drawer storage cabinets are much better at making full use of your available cubic space than shelves, particularly if you are storing small-to-medium size items of irregular shape and size.

Shelving is fine for big, bulky, regularly-shaped items -- items larger than a shoebox. For example, stackable rectangular boxes can often be a nice fit for shelf space. But irregularly-shaped boxes, or items with irregular surfaces (such as most instruments), usually can not be easily stacked. Even if they are stacked, cubic space is almost always wasted, because even if they could use the full cubic air space available with shelving, most people simply don't. Moreover, people typically store popular items along the front edge of the shelf, hiding and inhibiting access to items at the back of the shelf.

Drawer cabinets, on the other hand, allow storage in right-height drawers which can be filled to the top, using all available cubic space. Be sure to look for drawers which feature full-height sidewalls. This, in conjunction with drawers having full-exten sion capabilities, means that the entire three-dimensional drawer space can be utilized -- front-to-back, side-to-side, and top-to-bottom. Because of this, with small to medium items, one eye-level modular drawer cabinet can hold as much as three to four sections of shelving.

The upshot of the full use of cubic space with high-density modular drawer storage is a maximized use of overall available floor space. Consider what your company is paying for every square foot of storage space. Since three to four shelf units have about the same storage capacity as one cabinet, a switch to drawer cabinet storage can reduce needed square footage by as much as 100% -- 400%. And space = money.

A key witness. Corporate Jet Support (CJS) is a leading wholesale supplier of Gulfstream aircraft parts. Recently the company's success was creating a potentially debi litating problem in their storage warehouse.

Simply put, says CJS owner, Chris Breitweiser, "We ran out of room. We had grown out of our existing storage space and were forced to contemplate either moving or expanding our warehouse through expensive construction."

 The problem, as it turned out, was not one of insufficient storage space -- the available 10,000 square feet was more than adequate. The problem was a storage system that was not making the best use of the available space.

CJS was relying on antiquated, conventional shelving and pallets to store its wide range of fast-moving aircraft parts.

CJS and Breitweiser purchased a full squadron of 250 shallow depth HS modular drawer storage cabinets from Lista, as well as two Lista Storage Wall® Systems. CJS captured 10 feet of vertical space by stacking two high density HS cabinets atop each other. Lista custom-configured the HS drawer interiors using its flexible, modular dividing and partitioning accessories to accommodate the items CJS would be storing -- everything from small washers to valves, generators and actuators.

Explained Breitweiser, "We were able to maximize the use of our warehouse height and maintain the flexibility to put thousands of items in a very limited area. We can now hold in one drawer what we previously were storing in three units of conventional shelving."

Order in the drawers. Drawer interiors, with their easily customizable compartments, are ideally suited for storing small loose items like nuts, bolts, washers, spark plugs, electrical components and small instruments. These drawer compartments protect the items stored within them, can precisely match stored items by height, width and depth, are easily bar code labeled, and provide direct access and viewing.

On the other hand, the industry standard way of storing smaller items on shelves is to use a shelving bin, plastic box, or even worse, an open or semi-open cardboard box. The plastic boxes and shelving bins are not inexpensive. In fact, 10 or 20 boxes can equal the cost of the shelving unit itself, doubling your storage equipment costs.

"Just in one month alone," Crete said, "We moved over 18,000 pieces out of the drawers. In and out. And the process of restocking is a fraction of what it used to be. That's how you gage the value of your equipment."

Witness improved protection and security. Modular drawer storage cabinets protect your valuable tools, parts and other assets from environmental wear and tear. Items come out of the drawer looking as clean as when they went in. This is far from the case with shelving, with items often left out in the open where they can collect coatings of dirt, dust and grime.

Drawer storage can provide much greater security for valuable items. Whereas shelving is by nature open and unlockable, cabinets are available with a range of locking options. Even within a locked storage room, additional locking systems on drawers can improve security and reduce shrinkage.

Evidence comes to light. Rows of shelving units can divide a room into a series of dark, uninviting corridors, blocking out light and inhibiting airflow. Drawer cabinets are not only much more attractive to begin with, keeping stored items out of sight until the drawer is open, their dimensions allow for a much better-lit storage area and improved ventilation. Better lighting and improved aesthetics can do wonders for your company's professional image. These improvements also work to boost employee morale, creating a safe, pleasant and productivity-enhancing workspace.

Beyond the shadow of a doubt. When you weigh all the evidence, and judge the benefits of drawer storage cabinets versus shelving units, your decision is truly open and shut. Consider everything from space and cost savings to security, inventory control, lighting and aesthetics, and you will see that drawer storage cabinets are the efficient and productive options for storing small and medium sized items. Case Closed.

Lista International Corporation

The Pallet Rotator inverts entire pallet loads and eliminates restacking. Numerous times, warehouse personnel are faced with the task of replacing either broken pallets or products packed onto a pallet. Using the pallet rotator is a fast, easy and safe way to invert the pallet and remove the damaged item. The rotator can also be used to switch loads to in-house sanitized or premium leased pallets or transfer products to less expensive shipping skids or slip sheets. With the ability to handle pallet loads measuring up to 48" x 48" and 60" high, the pallet rotator is a rugged but simple machine. The adjustable clamping mechanism easily secures loads up to 4,000 lbs., and rotates a full 180° on a massive anti-friction turret bearing. Rotation may be stopped at any point.

Trans-Quip Inc.

The Raymond Corporation offers visual assistance to lift truck operators storing and retrieving pallets at greater lift heights with its exclusive Vantage Point™ System colour imaging system. The imaging system makes pallet tag identification quick and easy for lift truck operators working with high racking, thus increasing productivity and accuracy in warehouse applications. Vantage Point is an available option on new or retrofitted Raymond 7000 Series Reach-Fork™ and Deep-Reach® trucks as well as tall EASi™ Reach-Fork and Deep-Reach trucks. The system consists of a waterproof, high-resolution camera mounted below the truck carriage and a colour monitor affixed to the operator compartment. The monitor provides a 52-degree view up, down, left and right.

The Raymond Corporation

The graphics of the ShockWatch labels have been updated to enhance their visibility and readability. The ShockWatch Label Program components -- companion labels, alert sticker, and yellow caution tape -- have also been enhanced to reflect a more current look and feel. The ShockWatch label is part of the impact indicator family of products and consists of a large, brightly coloured label that is affixed to the corner of a shipping carton. In the middle of the label are miniature precision-engineered glass tubes with a bright red liquid -- the indicator -- that becomes visible if the box is dropped or sustains a significant impact. The appearance of the bright red liquid immediately signals that the box has been mishandled and suggests the recipient check for damage.

ShockWatch

The PortoVeyor Bulk Bag Unloaders provide efficient pneumatic transfer of material from bulk bags into silos that are normally serviced by pneumatic trailers or railcars. They allow safe handling and clean unloading of any free-flowing dry bulk material shipped in bulk bags -- ranging from cement to food. They are ruggedly built and can be customized with optional hoists and lifting frames to support and unload all sizes and styles of bulk bags without slippage or spills. They not only open bags and convey their contents, but they also clean up nuisance dust.

Cyclonaire Corporation

The Fill-560 Application Module adds advanced features to the standard target control capabilities of the IND56 weighing terminal, including seven new sequences, process control parameters and input/output control for both the weigh-in and the weigh-out cycle. The Fill-560 supports single material and multiple material (up to four) filling and dispensing applications. The contents of the container can be dispensed or dosed in a precise, controlled manner into single or multiple containers for the weigh-out cycle. The operator may program the controls to repeat the process "n" number of times and trigger an auxiliary output.

Mettler Toledo

The LOBOY™ ultra-low ground clearance drum cart features a low centre of gravity design which allows safe towing without tipping. This 100% welded cart also features rounded corners and smoothed edges, built-in 11-gallon capacity overflow "pig", tubular steel drum support with easy access for drum loading devices and durable safety yellow powder paint finish. Special wheels provide low push/pull forces for easy manual moving. A no bend towing system features spring-loaded, self-stowing towbar, frame recessed auto-hitch and auto-release floor lock.

K-TEC

Using horizontal carousels for order consolidation can decrease operator walk and search time and increase productivity while reducing man hours. Remstar's new Quick Pick Position Indicator (QPI) Lights can increase accuracy to 99.99% by directing operators to designated pick or put cells within the carousel. The QPI Lights are designed to direct the operator to the exact location of the part required for the transaction, leaving virtually no room for error.

Remstar International

The EASYpick® Voice order fulfillment system frees workers from paper pick lists and terminal screens, providing clear and concise voice commands via wireless network. The Voxware Integrated Speech Recognition Engine (VISE™) is specifically designed for use in highly demanding industrial environments. Utilizing speaker dependent technology, each order filler is able to build his/her own custom profile, or "voiceprint", which translates to greater accuracy and overall efficiency. EASYpick Voice uses a continuous speech recognizer enabling order fillers to communicate with the system in a natural, steady fashion.

FKI Logistex

Autoslip Express is designed specifically for the packing station. On demand, it prints, folds and inserts up to four shipping documents into an adhesive pouch. The "tamper proof" pouch is applied to the shipping box by the packing station operator. Autoslip Express is seamlessly integrated into an existing warehouse with minimal downtime since the system is part of the packing station, not directly connected to the line.

PSI Engineering

The Max Climber™ 1000 Rack & Pinion Hoist is designed to ensure optimum safety when lifting general building materials in the facility maintenance and power plant facilities. It is equipped with features that allow operators to easily and safely use the hoist with better control. The Max Climber 1000 comes standard with a push button pendant and upper and lower limit switch assembly, enabling easy up and down movement that instantly stops when the limit switches are activated. The hoist comes equipped with a downward interruption sensor that will automatically stop operation if it senses a foreign object in its path. Separate over-speed brakes serve as the emergency back-up and pre vent free-falling.

Beta Max Inc.

SCANEX is a complete family of barcode readers engineered for use in hazardous areas. It may be used for production management in a variety of industries with hazardous locations. Three primary models are available -- the Dragon D101, a cabled trigger operated handheld scanner; the Dragon M101, a wireless trigger operated handheld scanner; and the Nano, a fixed mount miniature scanner with continuous span operation.

Pepperl+Fuchs

The Model PC3048 Platform Truck allows operators to move loads of up to 227 kg around the plant, warehouse or any other facility with ease. Moulded in pockets hold order-picking items, pens, clipboards, printouts, scanners and more, while the beverage holder is the perfect fit for a coffee cup or water bottle. The powder-coated steel handle is 32mm in diameter. For maximum strength and durability, the body of the platform truck is roto-moulded from LLDPE which means no rust, dents, cracks or splinters. It also means low weight, since the truck weighs in at just 27 kg.

Techstar Plastics Inc.

Airlanco Pneumatic Conveying System streamlines dilute phase handling of dry bulk solids and provides reliable dust control. The Positive Displacement Blower Packages feature heavy-duty frames and adjustable monitor bases, as well as inlet and outlet silencers for a quieter working environment. Its machined air locks are built for the high pressure, heavy-duty demands of dilute phase conveying -- with fabricated steel rotors and rugged cast housing of carbon and stainless steel. Self-contained Bag Dump Stations are suitable for adding minor ingredients and have a built-in fan, pulse jet cleaning and cartridge filters for thorough and efficient dust removal. Bin Vents filter out the product dust and debris captured in conveying air as it is vented from storage bins or silos.

AIRLANCO

F1 Series Rectangular Inductive Sensors are available in either DC or AC/DC models. These inductive sensors come is a compact IP65 rated rectangular housing that enables them to fit into small spaces. They are suited for detecting metallic objects in material handling or packaging applications. All models offer high visibility LED target-present indication with a shielded sensing range of 4mm (flush mount). DC models are also available in an 8mm unshielded (non-flush mount) sensing range and are rated for 10-30 VDC, with 3-wire and 4-wire outputs. They feature a high switching frequency of up to 14500 Hz, and are ideal for fast processes. AC/DC models are rated for 20-250 VAC/VDC, feature 2-wire AC/DC and a switching speed of 25 Hz. They are short circuit and overload protected, and tolerant of reverse polarity.

Pepperl+Fuchs

Buckhorn introduces a new line of open-sided, bulk containers with permanently installed custom frames. The Buckhorn DunnageReady™ (DR) containers can be adapted with custom dunnage to easily handle the special needs of transporting irregular shaped, lightweight components and assemblies with finished surfaces. The Dunnage-Ready container combines the strength, versatility, and weight advantages of moulded plastic with the durability and easy access offered by the tubular steel frame. Corners on the metal frame members are mitered and fully welded to eliminate all entry points for moisture. A powder coating adds additional protection to the metal surface and improves the over-all look of the unit. The unique mounting design simplifies installation and requires only a minor reduction in the size of the interior opening to the container.

Buckhorn

The Draw-Tite™ powered roll-up door has a unique tensioning system which enables the door to maintain a seal under gusts up to 70 mph and prevents the curtain from blowing out of its guides. The door is also suitable for areas within the facility that have high positive/negative pressures. Standard on the door is an in-tube style 110 volt motor that moves the door at 6"/sec. The door also has an active edge that senses objects in the path of the lowering curtain and causes the door to reverse direction upon contact. The motor enables the Draw-Tite to have a responsive safety edge, to work with a variety of actuation devices and to operate in conjunction with the master control boxes found on many docks that coordinate dock equipment activity.

Goff's Enterprises

InnerDrive Belt Conveyors feature a safe and efficient 24dvc motor placed inside a low profile conveyor frame, offering significant space savings. With a frame height of only 2.54", this unique design can fit tight spaces that standard conveyors cannot. The integrated motor makes the conveyors maintenance-free, eliminating the need to lubricate bearings or drive packages. Maximum torque is provided by integrated gears which offer speeds up to 60 feet per minute and can move loads up to 100 lbs.

QC Industries

The automated replenishment system is designed for less-than-full case picking. The new system uses FKI Logistex mini-load cranes to reduce the high manual cost of split-case picking by providing continuous, automated, demand-based replenishment to increase order fulfillment speed and accuracy. By ensuring that pick faces are continuously restocked, the system eliminates replenishment downtime. The use of dynamic slotting logic minimizes the number of flow lanes required to service orders. The ability of the mini-load crane to automatically reconfigure pick faces on-demand as SKUs change makes the system suitable for handling short-run and seasonal products.

FKI Logistex

The Adaptable Load Backrest and Antenna Cell forklift installation system allows forklift drivers to use RFID and other data collection technologies to gather complete real-time inventory data efficiently and safely without leaving their vehicle. Intermec partnered with Cascade to create an RFID-enabled forklift system that integrates durable, rugged inventory and data collection technology with existing forklift equipment. The system can be made to accommodate almost all forklifts.

Intermec Inc.

The new 260 Lean Palletizing System is designed specifically for palletizing at end-of-line applications. The rugged lean cell offers flexibility with its highly portable design, allowing manufacturers quick changeover, low maintenance and 24/7 operation. Utilizing a four-axis ABB-IRB 260 robot, the lean cell system can pick and place up to 15 cases per minute, with a case weight of up to 20kg. With straight-through or over/under layout, the system can use either manual forklifts or automated guided vehicles for empty and full-pallet handling. An optional pallet dispenser and slip-sheet dispenser are available. AGV integration allows automated handling from point of production to stretch wrapper.

QComp Technologies, Inc.

These LED systems are specifically designed for light-guided picking applications. The light-guided picking systems utilize LED indicator modules mounted to shelving, flow rack, work benches, pallet rack or other storage locations to help reduce the risk of errors and improve throughput in a variety of applications. LED Light-guided picking systems can be designed for any rack or shelving unit and come in a wide selection of hardware and software configurations. They can be used on static shelving or automated carousel systems.

DDP

The AIRDOCK dock leveler features a reinforced PVC coated protected and balanced single chamber air bag that is suitable for all environments and will operate efficiently in extreme weather conditions. The single chamber design reduces material and seams and eliminates friction wear and tear. In a stored position, the air bag is completely protected from blowing dust, snow, rain and debris as well as foreign objects in the pit. The Auto-Descent™ lip extension uses the natural weight of the deck to provide the power to activate the lip without compromising the power available from the lifting mechanism. The AIRDOCK air powered dock leveler is a self-contained system with the airbag safely stored away from forklift contact.

Nordock Inc.

Drexelbrook's Empty Belt Sensors, such as the Intellipoint RF™ and ThePoint™, are ruggedly designed to meet the extreme environments found in power plants and coal yards and can be used for conveyors carrying materials ranging from coal to fine powders. The sensors are mounted above the conveyor, with the flexible tip riding on the material on the conveyor. As long as the sensor encounters the targeted material, the output remains unchanged. If the sensor does not detect the target material, it changes output condition. The change in output state can be used to trigger an annunciator, shut down the conveyor, or to initiate any other control system function.

AMETEX Drexelbrook

Canadian Industrial Equipment News May 2007

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