Innovative sheet metal logistics opens new horizons

Soon the 16th edition of Blechexpo will open its doors in Stuttgart. The platform of choice for broader sheet metal processing, where traditionally important warehouse management and its surrounding logistics will also play a leading role. After all, every manufacturing issue stands or falls with flexible manipulation of the manufactured workpieces. We spoke with Thomas Holthöfer, head of digital marketing at Remmert Gmbh.

Remmert develops and constructs customized automated warehouse solutions, with a distinct specialization for pipe, profile and sheet metal. At Blechexpo, in addition to its renowned warehouse automation, the German company will also show visitors some striking examples of new logistics solutions. This in the context of the overall aim: to create maximum automation in the sheet metal processing line. 

Thomas Holthöfer: "Remmert has various transport and storage systems at its disposal for this purpose. On the one hand, there are the classic warehouse towers, which can be used as single or double towers. On the other hand, Remmert also provides large fully automated warehouse systems, within which we can handle all dimensional standard formats."

Flexible logistics

"However, Remmert also develops automatic systems that provide logistical support to laser cutting machines. Our LaserFLEX enables the user to feed the laser machines with sheet material per direct. Both input and output are thereby automated. Remmert's added value is that our systems are flexible and therefore easy to integrate into existing production lines. In this way, the Remmert systems can be connected to a wide variety of laser manufacturers. This means that several lasers can be connected to one Remmert system. This has obvious advantages for the customer: if a laser machine needs to be replaced, the entire system does not have to be modified, and in the process they are not limited in their choice of a specific laser manufacturer. This can also bring about financial benefits."

Basic Tower Easy

At Blechexpo, Remmert will soon show a new variant of a plate warehouse. In addition to the existing Basic tower, the Easy version will be available. This is a budget-friendly entry-level model that is an ideal solution for the type of customer seeking only a single automated plate warehouse without direct connection to lasers. The Basic Tower Easy will be on the market by the end of 2023. 

Sorting system LoopFLEX

Remmert also offers advanced solutions for sorting out laser-cut sheet metal and skeletons. After laser cutting, a large sheet naturally results in a number of smaller pieces, which are normally sorted manually. In smaller companies, this is often even directly after the laser machine. By using Remmert's LoopFLEX system, strategic conveyor systems are integrated on which cut parts are placed that are also immediately moved to a safe area.

Remmert's AGV 

A very new feature at Remmert is the AGV, specifically designed for moving sheet metal. The vehicle is capable of transporting sheets with a payload of 3 tons at full size (3000x1500mm), omni-directionally. A first application of the system is currently taking place at Dutch sheet metal processing company Hoekman. The AGV will transport already cut sheets from the warehouse to separate sorting stations. This means that sorting does not have to be done on site at the laser. It also offers the possibility of operating a more remote, existing warehouse without the need for a forklift.  

Sorting robot SortFLEX

Finally, Remmert presents a sorting robot called the SortFLEX. It is a fully automatic solution for individual sorting of lasered and finished parts. It is a robot in which the robotic arm moves across the sheet and picks up the cut parts with a suction cup matrix and then sorts them onto pallets (e.g., arranged according to part type or order). The system selectively activates the required suction cups for the conscious picking to match the shape and dimensions of the cut parts. Alternatively, magnetic tools can even be mounted on the robotic arm. The SortFLEX can be interfaced with a wide variety of laser machines.    

Remmert can be visited during Blechexpo in Hall 1, Booth 1005.