Sorters save energy

The 200,000 sq m logistics centre operated by Nike in Taicang, China is the company’s largest distribution centre in Asia and handles all shipments of Nike apparel and footwear for mainland China. From the outset the centre has helped define how large-scale facilities can operate more sustainably.

Knowing that a large part of the energy consumed in a distribution centre is used to run the sortation equipment and conveyors, Nike was intent on employing the most energy-efficient machines available. The company therefore decided on the Crisplant LS-4000 cross-belt and tilt-tray sorters. These sorters, plus Crisplant’s software controls, are helping NIKE achieve a number of its core corporate goals: increased operational efficiency, shipping flexibility and accuracy, as well as reducing handling costs, energy consumption and easing the environmental impact of its operations.

Energy saving was also a key priority for Witt-Gruppe, alongside sorting speed, accuracy and reliability, when the company opted for a Crisplant sorting solution at its new distribution centre outside Weiden, Germany.

As the distribution centre for the entire Witt-Gruppe catalogue and website, the system must handle a diverse range of clothing and household items, as well as CDs and DVDs. The weight of these items can vary from a few grams to up to 7kg and include a wide range of shapes. The complete sorting system handles an average of 180,000 items per day.

The two Crisplant LS-4000CB cross-belt sorters (packing) and one LS-4000E tilt-try sorter (shipping) employ an innovative motor technology that enables Witt-Gruppe to achieve a direct energy saving of over 76% per year, compared with sorters using conventional motor technology. The three sorters at the centre reduce the environmental impact by saving more than 26 tonnes of CO2 per year.

Put simply, says Crisplant, efficiency in sorting as well as low energy consumption can be achieved by ensuring you choose the right supplier.