The company's manufacturing facility in Zurich, Switzerland uses a cluster of eleven Hänel Lean-Lift® systems to optimize storage capacity and production performance. ABB's internal warehouse management system is directly connected to the Hänel elevator controller. Information such as product location, inventory balance, and material handover approval are displayed in the elevator interface, making product search quick and easy for employees.
The Hänel Pick-o-Light® -Vario also ensures flawless collection: the requested storage box or compartment is clearly marked with a moving LED. Each order line is also displayed on the elevator screens. Simultaneous use of multiple Lean-Lift® systems significantly improves collection efficiency. Materials are quickly available because the systems are located in close proximity to production and warehouse — workers do not have to walk long distances in search of products.
Another advantage of Hänel storage systems is the high storage density. With a total floor area of just 80 square meters, 11 Lean-Lift® systems offer up to 1,500 square meters of storage capacity. The Lean-Lift® systems are 13 meters high and reach up to the ceiling of the production building. To take advantage of the height, elevator systems are attached to the foundations of the basement floor.
For particularly large and heavy components, ABB uses Hänel Lean-Lift® systems specially designed for pallet storage. The operating openings of these systems are located at the floor level, allowing workers to smoothly move pallets in with forklifts. Incoming components do not need to be unpacked — heavy goods can remain on pallets and go directly to the Hänel Lean-Lift® system. Fast availability times and the protection of stored products are also decisive advantages that distinguish Hänel storage systems to their advantage.
