The Challenge

Wurth UK needed to consolidate two of the UK depots into one without going to the expense and upheaval of a new UK distribution centre. The challenge was to build a facility at the current headquarters to increase both bulk and hand pick facilities, allowing free automated movement around the whole of its large facility.

STS Storage Systems liaised with the Wurth team both in the UK and in Germany (headquarters) to design the MLPP system to incorporate the existing Bendi Fork Lift Trucks to fit in the aisle, alongside a fully automated conveyor system.

The Solution

STS Storage Systems successfully delivered a unique pick and bulk location system utilising a Bendi Fork Lift Truck to operate in the narrowest of aisle spaces at 1700mm. The structure covering 1024m2 with 2 fully accessible walkways and 5 levels of pallet storage.

The MLPP needed to incorporate a fully computerised conveyor system rising from ground level to 2.4m then 4.6m, picking multiple orders from all around its 5760m2 facility. Due to the building control regulations a long period of specialist consultation was needed with London Fire Brigade engineers to satisfy the safe fire procedures in the event of a fire outbreak. STS employed the services of a specialist independent fire engineer to satisfy all the regulations.

STS Storage Systems were able to save Wurth a considerable amount of capital by proving a sprinkler system could be avoided in favour of a fire tunnel with escape routes and robust procedures.

STS Storage Systems took control and drove the strategy to ensure the clients budget was controlled, keeping expenditure to a minimum. We successfully negotiated the client around the various regulations and red tape to deliver the project on time to deliver a unique facility.

How We Achieved It !

• Installed an FEM pallet racking designed with 2 no walkway pick levels in rack spines.
• Aisles configured to take an existing Bendi truck operation at 1.7m.
• Used a pallet live system to aid fast moving products.
• Installed low energy T5 lighting with PIR to save energy.
• Created external fire exits and staircases to improve travel distance.
• Integrated with the existing conveyor supplier including breaks for fire escapes.
• Fire Tunnel.
• Built a mezzanine floor to adjoin MLPP and aid safe escape into 1hr fire protected area.
• Constructed a fire rated ceiling and partition system offering 1 hour protection.