Products
27.04.2023
Balluff optimizes production supply in Hungary with AutoStore empowered by Kardex
In May 2023, Kardex will hand over a turnkey and future-proof AutoStore system to sensor specialist Balluff. Perfectly adapted to local conditions, the high-performance small parts warehouse will optimize production supply at the Veszprém site in Hungary.
Highly efficient AutoStore robots at work
Due to increased demands on production capacities, the central production logistics in Hungary were increasingly faced with the challenge of creating space and condensing storage volumes. In addition, Balluff was looking for a storage solution that would reduce travel times, increase efficiency improvements and provide enough flexibility to accommodate further growth. The storage and retrieval system AutoStore proved to be the ideal concept for meeting these challenges in the best possible way. For the planning and implementation of a customized AutoStore solution at the Hungarian site in Veszprém, Balluff relies on the know-how and expertise of intralogistics expert Kardex.
"The Kardex team convinced us right from the start with their consulting expertise and the extremely detailed solution concept. We are certain that we have found the right solution in AutoStore and the perfect partner for sustainable success in Kardex," explains Zsuzsanna Deutsch, Head of Logistics at Balluff Elektronika Kft.
Maximum space efficiency and flexibility
At the main European production site "Balluff-Elektronika Kft" in Veszprém, three Hungarian warehouse locations will be combined centrally in the future. In this context, an extension to the existing logistics center is planned.
In addition to the AutoStore solution that will provide fully automated high-density storage and retrieval of finished products and spare parts, the new hall in Veszprém will also include new storage equipment for pallets and long goods. The AutoStore system will ensure order picking for production in line with demand and its on-time supply.
The highly flexible aluminum cubic grid system, in which AutoStore bins are neatly stacked on top of each other, maximizes storage density and enables four times the capacity with the same footprint compared to conventional manual storage.
Visualization of the AutoStore system planned for Balluff's Hungarian site in Veszprém
In the first expansion stage, the AutoStore solution for Balluff will offer space for around 30,000 storage bins, each with an external height of 220 mm.
Seven battery powered AutoStore robots will move along the rails of the grid, continuously picking up these bins, rearranging them and transporting them to the ergonomically designed workstations (2 Conveyor Ports and 3 Carousel Ports) for replenishment and picking. The AutoStore system is going to be connected directly to Balluff's own SAP WM. The modular design of AutoStore allows for expansions in terms of throughput and storage capacity at any time without interrupting ongoing operation.
About the company Balluff
Founded in 1921 in Neuhausen a. d. F., Balluff stands with its 3600 employees worldwide for innovative technology, quality and cross-industry experience in industrial automation. As a leading sensor and automation specialist, the fourth-generation family-owned company offers a comprehensive portfolio of high-quality sensor, identification and image processing solutions, including network technology and software.
In 2021, the Balluff Group recorded sales of approximately 504 million euros. In addition to its central headquarters in Neuhausen a. d. F., Balluff has sales, production and development sites in 61 countries, represented by 37 subsidiaries and other representatives. This guarantees customers worldwide availability of high-quality products and exceptional advice and service directly on site.
About Kardex
Kardex is a leading intralogistics solution provider of automated storage, retrieval and material handling systems. With two entrepreneurially managed divisions, Kardex Remstar and Kardex Mlog, the Kardex mission is to provide solutions and services to increase the efficiency in storing and handling of goods and materials on a global scale.
The two divisions serve as partners over the entire life cycle of a customer's product or solution. From project analysis to realization and service, Kardex helps improve a customer’s performance every step of the way. With three own production plants in Germany and one in North America Kardex ensures high quality solutions. To maintain and strengthen its competitive position within technological innovation and outstanding customer loyalty, Kardex is investing in research and development, its supply chain, the expansion of its service organization as well as in new technology via acquisitions. Kardex actively partners with global leaders who share the same values and complement the Kardex solutions including AutoStore, Rocket Solution, Robomotive, Intertex and Sumobox.
