VRCs – vertical reciprocating conveyors are a safe and effective way for companies to transport materials between levels. They offer a cost-efficient alternative to inclined conveyors or freight elevators. The tailored design and small footprint optimize a facility’s efficiency.
Understanding Vertical Reciprocating Conveyors (VRCs) And Their Benefits
Companies strive to find ways to move materials between mezzanine or floor levels without risking workers’ safety.
Stacked pallet racks and mezzanines present fall risks for workers handling storage and retrieval. A VCR – vertical reciprocating conveyor is a go-to solution for managing materials across multiple levels.
When selecting a VRC for your facility, there two primary options hydraulic and mechanical. Each comes with distinct benefits that are tailored to fit varied applications.
Hydraulic VRCs
Hydraulic VRCs use a hydraulic cylinder and pump to load and manage heavy workloads ranging between 5000 and 50000 lbs. The VRCs offer controlled lift velocity, help workers safely handle fragile loads, and integrate seamlessly into compact facilities. They reach heights up to 28 feet to access multiple levels.
Mechanical VRCs
A mechanical VRC uses electrically powered rope, chain, or belt systems for precise workload platform control. These have a quiet operation, making the suited for managing workloads up to 5000 lbs.
Mechanical VRCs have smooth starts and stops, making them capable of handling heavy loads and maneuvering roughly 100 feet for a streamlined high-volume workflow. They do well for distribution centers.
Consider the following key benefits of using VRCs to optimize multi-level workflows in your facility.
Space efficiency
Inclined conveyors and freight or traditional elevators consume valuable floor space, posing difficulties for facilities with already limited square footage. VRCs, on the other hand, require minimal space, putting them in demand for compact areas and tight configurations.
This equipment can readily integrate into existing structures, unlocks unused vertical space that might otherwise be wasted. The compact design is ideal for factories, warehouses, and structures with mezzanine levels, enabling optimal use of every square inch of available space.
Cost-efficiency
VRCs when compared to a bulky freight elevator offers substantial cost advantages. Installation is generally lower in cost because of the smaller footprint and simplistic design. Operating and maintenance is typically less expensive because the VRC lacks complex elevator features and regulations.
The equipment is a more cost-efficient storage solution that leverages vertical space much more efficiently than other solutions. It allows effective material handling and storage within a building’s existing structure, avoiding the need for costly expansions.
They further contribute to a facility’s operational efficiently by automating goods’ transport from one floor to the next, leading to labor cost savings.
Safety
Safety is vital, particularly when dealing with heavy machinery and the possibility of hazards. With VRCs, the focus is on safety, including various features, such as enclosures meant to shield goods from external hazards and locked doors to prevent unauthorized access.
They come equipped with safety interlocks that halt operations when obstructions are detected. Automatic stops provide smooth transitions from one level to the next.
Optimal safety features create a secure environment for the workers operating the equipment and the products being transported, preventing incidents or accidents resulting in injuries or damages. Click to learn about vertical reciprocating conveyor safety mechanism.
Increase in productivity
Because vertical material transport is automated through seamless integration with AS/RS – Automated Storage and Retrieval Systems or WMS – Warehouse Management Systems, the conveyor enhances productivity.
The integration minimizes manual handling, reducing the time spent moving goods and frees works up to work on core company tasks.
With the material flow being faster, smoother, and reliable, The VRC boosts efficiency.
Because they are capable of effective communication with a broader automation system, they’re able to optimize order fulfillment and space utilization in facility settings and handle real-time inventory management.
Visit – Vertical Reciprocating Conveyors Improve AGV & AMR Efficiency – for details on modern technology with the VRC.
Low maintenance and high durability
VRC design involves industrial-grade steel framework and reinforced platforms to tolerate carrying heavy workloads repeatedly. The equipment consists of low-maintenance materials that are highly durable.
The components are heavy-duty including cables, chains, and bearings, selected specifically for their resilience and longevity. Having fewer moving parts reduces wear and lowers maintenance requirements and expenses.
Many modern examples include maintenance-free designs with self-lubricating bearings. This maximizes operational uptime and enhances a facility’s reliability.
Efficient workflow
This equipment connects with inveentory management systems across multi-levels for a stream-lined material flow; it’s invaluable. Facilities can eliminate excess material handling by directly transporting workloads to where they’re needed.
The VRC combined with sensors and controls allows automated vertical access to inventory preventing bottlenecks and delivery delays. It becomes a seamless workflow integration for a smooth and efficient operation.
Final Thought
Vertical reciprocating conveyors are quickly becoming the go-to solution across industries for their focus on safety, high durability, and optimal efficiency.
When searching for the right VRC to meet your needs and purposes, contact a specialist who will understand your challenges and help you discover how vertical reciprocating conveyors can elevate your facility’s operations.
