Shuttle VLMs and Lektriever ELFs

Automated storage and retrieval systems from KardexRemstar can help metalworking companies build sustainable green buildings or redesign existing buildings to meet green standards, according to the company.

KardexRemstar carousels—the Shuttle^® Vertical Lift Modules (VLMs) and the Lektriever^® Electric Lateral Files (ELFs) improve space utilization, increase productivity and provide safe, ergonomic operation to help organizations support green initiatives by meeting environmental stewardship, social responsibility and economic prosperity objectives.

Such automated storage and retrieval systems reduce the amount of space required for storage and retrieval operations, allowing companies to construct smaller, more energy efficient buildings, reducing the construction footprint by up to 15 percent in some cases, conserving natural resources and reducing maintenance costs. In existing buildings, overhead "floor to truss" space optimization can reclaim up to 85 percent of the space used by file cabinets, drawers and shelving and rack systems.

KardexRemstar systems are designed to deliver stored items at an ergonomically optimized height to eliminate bending, stretching and reaching. This design not only improves productivity, but also reduces employee stress and injury for improved quality of work life.

Stored items are automatically delivered to the operator, eliminating walk and search time to improve productivity by up to 66 percent. More efficient operation reduces energy consumption, which helps reduce an organization's overall carbon footprint. Easy-to-use controls and software can improve productivity up to 500 percent in some applications. Return on Investment for many installations are often under 18 months.