Konecranes' Automated High-Bay Container Storage system is designed to address the challenges faced by distribution centres, logistic hubs, and port operators, dealing with increased container volumes and limited yard space. It efficiently minimizes the issue of queuing and congestion by enhancing operational flow. The system also aligns with sustainability goals, adhering to stringent emission targets set by legislation, and addressing concerns related to noise, light, and energy consumption.
Optimizing land space and increasing productivity through faster turnarounds directly contributes to greater profitability while meeting legislative requirements. Konecranes emphasizes safety, sustainability, effective land use, and improved productivity, demonstrating our commitment to addressing the modern challenges faced by container handling operations.
Solving challenges with the all-in-one solution
By bringing together established technologies from several different fields, AHBCS enables you to safely rack containers up to 12 high laden and 14 high empties with quick and effective access to containers at any time. The solution generates good ROI through various saving elements related to productivity gains, energy and also reduces operating costs. Energy efficient technologies – including the option of running the system on solar power – help to keep your CO2 footprint under control / eliminated.
“Eliminating the need to reshuffle containers in the yard provides huge gain in terms of productivity, sustainability, and safety. In this way, AHBCS is future proof for both brownfield and greenfield operations. It has the highest potential for distribution center, port, rail and road interchange hubs,” explains Tero Vallas, Business Development Manager, BU Solutions, Konecranes.
Efficiency gains for all scenarios
Konecranes' Automated High-Bay Container Storage System (AHBCS) has been involved in testing
with various customers, showcasing its versatility and efficiency. These include a scenario case examination at an intermodal terminal where AHBCS replaces horizontal equipment, leading to cost and land savings, and enhanced safety. Another case involves a comparative analysis showing significant savings in energy, maintenance, and OPEX costs. Additionally, with full solar-power integration, the AHBCS demonstrates potential, independent energy production and significant CO2 emission reduction, presenting an attractive investment opportunity.
“Having an independent power source is important to many customers. There are places in the world where the energy supply is scarce, so solar makes a lot of sense. There’s also the sustainability value of reducing CO2 emissions,” explains Vallas.
“From the investment perspective, solar power is an extremely attractive choice. It usually pays for itself within less than five years. For the Konecranes customer who plans to have AHBCS with a solar solution, the lifetime saving in energy costs is approximately USD 74 million only in energy,” he says.
Improving versatility, safety and sustainability
The Konecranes Automated High-Bay Container Storage System (AHBCS) features a blend of components:
• Steel storage structure with protective cladding.
• Automated stacking cranes for efficient storage.
• Automated overhead cranes facilitating truck loading/unloading.
• Advanced Warehouse Management System (WMS) for optimizing container flows.
This system accommodates a range of container sizes and integrates seamlessly with several types of horizontal transport equipment, ensuring automation, safety, security, and integration capabilities.
“We’ve introduced the solution globally to five different industry segments so far, with customers who have similar challenges related to sustainability, productivity, financial returns, and safety. We’ve been glad to see that these challenges can be solved with AHBCS. It’s a very scalable way to grow with your business,” explains Vallas.
Related materials:
