A horizontal carousel system is a type of automated storage and retrieval system (ASRS) implemented in distribution centers and warehouses to retrieve and store materials effectively. It contains a set of bins or trays affixed to a turning carousel, and pick items are sent to the operator station, in a “good-to-person” way.

The Advantages Of Horizontal Carousels

A primary benefit of a horizontal carousel system is its tendency to maximize available area. By utilizing a rotating platform, a horizontal carousel enables the storage of a large quantity of items in a smaller floor plan, empowering material handling facilities to utilize the space they have more optimally. This can be particularly helpful in cases in which floor space is finite or expensive.

Another advantage of horizontal carousel systems is their quickness and accuracy. Due to the fact that the picking module can quickly and conveniently select the desired bin, the system can collect articles quicker than an employee. This helps material handling facilities limit the time it takes to fulfill orders, which can lead to improved performance and customer gratification.

Besides these positives, horizontal carousels may also help distribution centers and warehouses lessen their employment costs. Seeing as the system is automatic, it can operate around the clock without needing breaks or shifts. This can help limit the necessity for laborers, which can be particularly useful for material handling facilities that must output orders on a constant schedule.

Horizontal Carousel Types

There are varying differing types of horizontal carousel systems on the market, each including a few individual attributes and benefits. A few of the more frequently used types include:

Standard Horizontal Carousel: These “typical” horizontal conveyors are usually clustered jointly into a workstation or pod and used for batch picking applications. The amount of horizontal conveyors necessary for each station varies depending on capacity expectations. Wares can be retrieved either by a human employee or a computerized arm.

Put Horizontal Carousel: This variety of ASRS operates similarly to a put wall, but instead of a wall it’s comprised of a carousel of bins. It is frequently implemented for consolidation or within an operation.

Robotic Horizontal Carousel: Fully robotic carousels rotate the requested tray to an inserter/extractor, which chooses the applicable bin right away. A conveyor delivers the bin to its next destination within the system.

When deciding on a horizontal carousel system for a material handling facility, it's important to closely evaluate the unique demands of the facility. Factors to consider include the layout and size of the material handling facility, the types of items being kept, and the amount of orders requiring fulfillment.

Beyond the initial price of the horizontal carousel, warehouse executives should also take into account continuing maintenance and repair expenses. It's important to decide on a carousel that is durable and reliable, as stoppages can be costly when it comes to lost productivity and patron satisfaction.

Contact A Warehouse Automation Expert

Collectively, horizontal carousel systems are often an advantageous investment for warehouses and distribution centers trying to elevate efficiency and limit costs. By automating the retrieval and storage of goods, these systems are able to help facilities increase output, reduce labor demands, and raise customer satisfaction.

Raymond West's Santa Barbara County service area includes Buellton, Carpinteria, Goleta, Lompoc, Santa Barbara, Santa Maria and all surrounding areas.

Raymond West | Santa Barbara Material Handling Equipment Supplier

Santa Barbara County, CA
(805) 749-2777