ProMat 2009, slated for January 12-15, will showcase more than 750 exhibits and include a comprehensive educational conference. The event, held at McCormick Place in Chicago, will offer an array of products to help improve productivity at your company.

By Staff -- Modern Materials Handling, 12/1/2008

 

 Spiral conveyors handle heavy loads

Taller and capable of handling heavier loads, the high-capacity spiral conveyors start and stop while fully loaded and handle double the total weight of the supplier's regular-capacity spiral conveyors. Carrying a maximum load capacity of 75 pounds per linear foot, the conveyors reach speeds up to 200 feet per minute. An angle of incline between 9 and 11 degrees safeguards against loads sliding or tumbling during operation. Powered by one drive motor to save time and cost in control and system integration, the pre-assembled and pre-tested spiral conveyors are shipped in one piece. A modular design accommodates changing needs. Ryson, 757-898-1530, www.ryson.com, Booth 2323.

 

 Automated storage meets sustainability goals

Horizontal and vertical carousels and vertical lift modules reduce carbon footprints by enabling the construction of smaller, more energy efficient buildings. In existing buildings, overhead floor-to-truss space optimization reclaims up to 85% of space used by drawers, shelving and rack systems. The units store items at an ergonomic height to eliminate bending, stretching and reaching. To reduce walk and search time, items are automatically delivered to the operator, improving productivity up to 66%. Remstar International, 800-639-5805, www.remstar.com, Booth 3812.

 

  Low-maintenance sliding shoe sorters

FlexSort sliding shoe sorters require less maintenance due to innovative drive systems and construction with fewer parts. Features include variable speed operation for increased efficiency, lower energy consumption, online diagnostics and visualization of sortation statistics. The system is quiet, so it improves the work environment and increases productivity. Three versions are offered. The SL handles more than 400 cases per minute with redundant linear induction drive motors to ensure sorter availability. The RL line handles more than 330 cases per minute, while the ML configuration is intended for mid-rate applications that benefit from positive shoe sortation at pop-up wheel pricing. Dematic, 877-725-7500, www.dematic.us/sort, Booth 3603.

 

 Motorized roller conveyor

Constructed with a durable steel frame, MDR motor-driven roller conveyor is easily installed and maintained. The system requires very few spare parts, taking an average of 10 minutes to replace a single roller due to self-contained technology. With long-carton detection capability, it handles cartons of any size up to 70 pounds that can maneuver transfers and curves. Remotely or locally controlled, the system works on inclines, declines, scan beds or steerable wheel diverts. Available variable speed operation allows for adjustability in throughput. Intelligrated, 866-936-7300, www.intelligrated.com, Booth 2303 and 2603.

 

 AGVs for transporting, loading

The SmartLoader model 2000 automatic trailer loading vehicle moves loads weighing up to 2,500 pounds. Offered with a choice of single, double or single-side-shift forks, the system automatically loads and unloads pallets from a trailer. Equipped with LADAR vision, the unit delivers precision accuracy in loading, unloading and stacking pallets. The SmartCart model 300 counterbalanced fork AGV is guided by magnetic tape to deliver loads from floor storage to automated storage units. It also transports loads to and from stretch wrapping systems and may be configured with options including roller conveyor, tugger and scissor lift. Jervis B. Webb, 248-553-1000, www.jerviswebb.com, Booth 3203b.

 

 One-piece pallet is reusable

The RACX pallet combines strength and economy in a lightweight, one-piece design. Fabricated of recycled HDPE plastics, the pallets may be used repeatedly, and are themselves recyclable. The pallets include a picture frame bottom and runners on all four sides for added stability. Offered in a standard size of 48 x 40 inches, the pallets may be fitted with optional rubber grommets or lips to keep contents from slipping. Static load capacities are rated to 25,000 pounds and dynamic loads to 5,000 pounds. The pallets may be used in warehouse racking systems or for stack loading, closed loop transport, floor storage and automated applications. Decade Products, 616-975-4965, www.decadeproducts.com, Booth 4131.

 

 Modular conveyor system

Logistex case conveyor handles cases, totes and trays. Offering a variety of conveyor components, the system includes options for accumulation, transportation, diverting, metering, merging and sorting. All of the units share parts and controls to simplify maintenance, reduce spare parts inventories and make reconfiguration easy. One modular system can be tailored to a range of applications, including apparel, automotive, consumer goods, parcel distribution, food and beverage, pharmaceutical and retail. The energy-saving technologies feature all-electric design and run-on-demand technology. FKI Logistex, 877-935-4564, www.fkilogistex.com, Booth 1003.

 

 Fourth-generation AC technology powers trucks

Two new series of counterbalanced trucks offer capacities from 2,500 to 4,000 pounds. The EFG 213-220 and EFG 316-320 provide fourth generation, 3-phase AC technology in drive, hydraulic and steering systems. The technology improves energy efficiency through longer run times on a single battery charge and better travel speeds, lift/lower speeds, acceleration and ramp handling ability. Both versions allow the operator to access, charge and change the battery from the side of the truck. The 2 series offers six three-wheel chassis variations, including two compact versions for maneuverability in restricted spaces. The 3 series offers five four-wheel chassis variations and is ideal for longer runs. Jungheinrich, 804-737-7400, www.jungheinrich-us.com, Booth 2019.

 

 Ergonomic, electric lift trucks

The E45-70XN line of electric lift trucks features a remodeled operator compartment with increased foot and leg room and a removable floor plate for quick maintenance. The truck's ergonomic compartment has a relocated dash display for enhanced visibility and pallet control, while a redesigned hood provides maximum battery service access to reduce downtime. The hood also allows easy access for the driver when entering and exiting the truck. A new traction motor, with steel skin and cast end bells for maximum air flow, features improved speed sensors and generates higher traction speeds to improve productivity and operator safety. Hyster, 252-931-5679, www.hyster.com, Booth 1803.

 

 Nestable, impact-resistant plastic pallet

To withstand repeated use in supermarket, foodservice and retail distribution, the 40 x 48 inch HuskyLite nestable SG plastic pallet is made of a blend of materials that improve impact resistance and overall strength. Featuring box beam construction, the pallet offers stronger welds and greater rigidity to eliminate flowering and breakage. Beveled leading edges around the rim permit easy fork entry into a stack of nested pallets, while large surface areas on the leg bottoms improve conveying. Eight ergonomic handles accommodate hand stacking. To reduce load slippage, the top deck is scuffed. Rehrig Pacific, 800-241-9693, www.rehrigpacific.com, Booth 3938.

 

 Scalable case picking

Capable of handling from 30,000 to 300,000 cases per day, the modular, scalable case picking system offers high productivity with minimum errors for improved productivity and savings. The system automates all processes from receiving, de-palletizing, selecting, sequencing and customer-specific palletizing. Software controls order-picking and sequencing, building an optimized pallet in virtual space, then tells the systems which trays to deliver to the pick station and in what order. Palletizing robots receive products in the correct sequence to build store-ready pallets. A hybrid packing station with dual encased pallet lifts ensures that a pallet is always in process. SSI Schaefer Systems International, 800-876-6000, www.ssi.schaefer-us.com, Booth 2003.

 

 Charge two batteries from one unit

To extend the life of industrial batteries while increasing productivity, TwinCharge charges two batteries sequentially. Operating from a single charger, the batteries are individually connected to one of the system's two output cables. One battery is charged at a time. When the first charge is complete, the unit isolates the battery from the charger, then automatically moves to the uncharged battery connected to the second output cable. Philadelphia Scientific, 215-616-0390, www.phlsci.com, Booth 327

 

 Quick-charge battery systems benefit environment

PosiCharge battery fast charge systems are environmentally friendly by reducing the number of batteries required to operate a fleet of electric lift trucks, and improving the battery efficiency and life cycle. By eliminating complicated charge schedules, the systems maximize operator uptime and throughput. They also eliminate battery changing rooms and manual handling of batteries, which reduces lead acid spillage potential and other environmental and safety hazards. The supplier recently formed an alliance to market the systems through authorized Toyota Material Handling Industrial Equipment dealers. AeroVironment, 626-357-9983, www.posicharge.com, www.avinc.com, Booth 1544.

 

 AC-powered reach trucks

Offered in three models, the new line of 8-Series AC reach lift trucks includes a single reach lift truck in 3,500- and 4,500-pound lifting capacities and a 3,000-pound capacity double reach model. The truck family features an AC-powered drive system, AC power hydraulic system on 36-volt models and maintenance-free electric disc brakes. These systems offer increased productivity and performance with faster travel speeds, reduced maintenance costs and an overall extended life cycle. Ideal for distribution centers, retail operations, refrigerated warehouses and third-party logistics applications, the trucks have increased travel speeds of up to 17% and fewer service intervals. Toyota Material Handling USA, 800-226-0009, www.toyotaforklift.com, Booth 1203.

 

 Small fleet management, monitoring

For the management of small equipment fleets, Vigilant Lite is a scaled-down version of the supplier's mobile asset management system. This edition is ideal for companies with smaller fleets or budget restrictions. Features include operator access control, electronic pre-shift safety checklist, impact sensor, exportable hour meter readings and serial interface or CAN bus integration with forklift controllers. The Web-based software permits setting of impact, operator badge and PM threshold restrictions. Access Control Group, 908-789-8700, www.assetor.net, Booth 3525.

 

 Pneumatic leveler automatically adjusts

The P3 pneumatic leveler allows operators to build or break down pallet loads with a minimum of bending, reaching, stretching or walking. The unit automatically adjusts the height of pallets as boxes are added or removed. A heavy-duty reinforced rubber airbag combined with a permanent spring enables this adjustment. The system handles varied pallet load weights from 400 to 4,500 pounds and can be used anywhere shop air is accessible. For effortless rotation, a large turntable equipped with anti-friction bearings ensures that operators are always working on the nearside of the pallet. Presto Lifts, 800-343-9322, www.prestolifts.com, Booth 1531.

 

 Non-woven conveyor belt

The non-woven Ulti-Mate S series belts are ideal for unit/package handling applications. Quiet running and with a high-level of edge wear resistance, the belts offer fastener retention and excellent tracking characteristics. Anti-static, the belt eliminates plasticizer pick-off on slider beds and rollers commonly associated with PVC belt use. Habasit America, 800-458-6431, www.habasitamerica.com, Booth 1052.

 

 Equip pallet trucks for corrosive environments

For use in extreme and corrosive environments, the extreme environment corrosion package extends the life of the pallet trucks while reducing cost of ownership. The package includes a galvanized frame, parts and linkages to resist corrosive agents and frequent washdowns. Offered for three of the supplier's pallet truck models, the package may be incorporated on the 102XM (4,500-pound-capacity) walkie pallet truck, the 8300 (6,000-pound-capacity) walkie pallet truck, or the 8400 (6,000-pound-capacity) end rider pallet truck. Raymond, 800-235-7200, www.raymondcorp.com, Booth 3219.

 

 Enhanced AGV system software

Enhanced AGV Manager system software has been released. Offered to control and monitor the supplier's automated guided vehicle systems, the software is user-friendly with menu-driven navigation and three-dimensional graphics. Operators can define favorite screens when monitoring system performance for additional flexibility with an intuitive interface. JBT Corp., 215-822-4600, www.jbtc-agv.com, Booth 2336.