Kasto unveils storage innovation

The event was the first opportunity to see the KASTO unitower C automated storage system for long stock such as bar and tube. It is an entry-level tower store, joining its similarly named counterpart for accommodating sheet metal. The exhibition tower at the event was connected to a saw showing how manual handling can be eliminated.

The standardised storage system is suitable for all applications with a high variety of sheet metal or materials which can be stored like sheet metal. A high storage density with a small footprint is achieved with a height-optimised compartment division. This leads to more order, cleanliness and safer operation.

The system saves time because it offers direct access without requiring additional lifting devices. This economical automatic storage system for sheet metal also has pluggable, modular pallet supports, that are variable in height, for different loading heights.

There was seven storage and handling systems on show at FutureDays, and information was provided on advances in sheet metal storage using various levels of automation.

Presentations were given on a dedicated storage centre for coils, a special storage system for long stock used in the offshore industry, and a KASTO unigrip C semi-automatic honeycomb system for regional steel stockholding centres.

Other products included a rotating manipulator for aluminium plates, a commissioning device for bundles of cut plastic material, and other special purpose handling equipment for use with and without machine tools. These included a pedestal-mounted 6-axis robot for automated loading / unloading of a KASTO variospeed circular saw, and a similar set-up where the robot performs deburring of cut pieces.

Managing director Armin Stolzer hosted the event, which was the first FutureDays since he took sole control of the company. A fifth generation family business, KASTO was previously run by joint MDs. With Armin at the helm, the company is looking to develop more quickly and with more consistent direction.

Armin described how the market for automated metal storage has developed, unsurprisingly much faster in Germany than in the UK. 

"In the German market we had discussions in late 1980 and 1990s about the pros and cons of automation, whether it was worth it for the company to make that shift.

"Now it has happened, it is not a point of discussion. The UK is 20 years behind. The argument is still being made and it is our job to paint the picture for the customer.

"We must help the customer to realise the benefits, we must build statistics on the cost per pick and unit costs into the sales strategy. Germany survives with the highest costs in the world through offering high value, investing in technology and investing in automation.”

 

UK MD Ernst Wagner adds that the UK business, while operating in a smaller market than an industrial powerhouse like Germany, is progressing. 

"A few years ago, if we had 100 inquiries, we had one or two going further, it was hard to educate the market. Now, it’s up to 10-20 per cent, which shows the perception in the market is slowly shifting. We are working on six automated warehouse projects now and we will see how many we can bring home.”

KASTO also showed off its latest developments in the area of control technology, software (including system simulation), human-machine interfaces and camera-based equipment for identification and measurement of cut pieces and other stock.

The simulation tool in particular caught the eye. Using the tool is a involved process, it is not something a salesman can whizz through on an iPad in 10 minutes. 

"Simulations involve our specialists visiting the customer to gain a deep understanding of how that company works. We will analyse picks, manipulations etc and work on how we think they can be improved,” explains Armin.

"The tool is not for companies with simple operations and is a service customers pay for. However, the price can be offset against the cost of equipment subsequently purchased.”