When it comes to selecting racking systems for refrigerated warehouses , the primary concern is space utilisation .
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INCORPORATING COLD CHAIN
Racking and shelving is a competitive market in South Africa . Local companies are known for manufacturing their range of mobile racking systems . There is also a host of imported systems from German companies that supply mobile racking solutions in South Africa , and other distributors on behalf of Norwegian companies among others . The reliance on imports can affect the pricing and availability of racking systems in the region .
Mobile racking systems aid space utilisation Compiled by Eamonn Ryan
When it comes to selecting racking systems for refrigerated warehouses , the primary concern is space utilisation .
Image supplied by Acrow
INNOVATIONS IN RACKING SYSTEMS FOR REFRIGERATED WAREHOUSES
Shawn Gray , senior sales executive at Acrow notes that mobile racking systems are increasingly favoured due to their ability to maximise the footprint of available space , providing high-density storage solutions . These systems allow facilities to store more products without compromising safety or accessibility .
While the principles of effective racking are largely similar across industries , Gray acknowledges that specific considerations arise in refrigerated environments : “ Factors such as temperature control , airflow , and the types of goods stored necessitate tailored solutions . Understanding the nuances of refrigeration can inform better racking decisions , ultimately leading to improved efficiency and safety in cold storage operations .”
Efficient racking systems are crucial for maximising space and ensuring safety . Gray highlights the importance of mobile racking , pallet shuttle racking , and pallet racking , as well as the unique landscape of automation in South Africa .
According to Gray , mobile racking is the most prevalent type of racking used in cold
3 and 4 : Two examples of Acrow racking installaitons .
Image supplied by Acrow
Shawn Gray , Senior sales executive at Acrow .
stores in South Africa today . “ This system allows for the full utilisation of available space , which is vital given the high costs associated with constructing cold storage facilities . Alongside mobile racking , pallet shuttle racking has gained popularity , especially in environments where temperature control is critical , such as ripening rooms in the fruit industry . These innovations not only enhance storage capacity but also improve overall operational efficiency .”
One of the standout features of Acrow is its in-house installation teams . Gray emphasises that Acrow employs 12 fulltime installation teams , all trained internally and equipped with the necessary safety certifications . This hands-on approach ensures that installations are carried out with a high level of expertise and compliance with safety standards .
Automation is a topic of growing interest in the industry . Gray notes that while fully automated systems are becoming standard
Image supplied by Acrow
1 and 2 : An Acrow installation and the team responsible .
in Europe and the US , South Africa ’ s reliance on cost-effective labour means that manual systems continue to dominate domestically .
He outlines three categories of racking systems as being static , semi-automated , and fully automated .
Semi-automated systems , such as mobile racking , still require human involvement , particularly in driving forklifts and managing pallet movements within the cold room . In contrast , fully automated systems , often referred to as ‘ dark warehouses ’, utilise cranes and minimise human involvement , except for the final loading of products .
He points out that mobile racking systems can significantly enhance storage efficiency in various industries , especially fast-moving consumer goods ( FMCG ) which require manual interventions . “ In such settings , companies often opt for traditional pallet racking or picking systems that incorporate conveyor systems to streamline operations . By converting static racking to mobile , businesses can adapt to changing inventory needs without the extensive costs associated with expanding their warehouse footprint .”
Gray stresses the importance of planning for future expansion when initially designing warehouse layouts . As the demand for efficient storage solutions continues to grow , businesses must remain agile to adapt to changing market needs .
While he acknowledges that there are emerging fully automated solutions in South Africa , such as at one clothing facility , he notes that the cold chain industry still heavily relies on manual labour . “ South Africa ' s relatively low labour costs make it less urgent for companies to transition to fully automated systems . Many South African warehouses still employ large teams — sometimes 80 to 90 people — highlighting a preference for static and semi-automated systems that remain economically viable .”
Mobile racking is the most prevalent type of racking used in cold stores in South Africa today .
18 www . coldlinkafrica . co . za COLD LINK AFRICA • November / December 2024