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Sigma Alimentos desires automation for new expansion
Technology Category
- Automation & Control - Automation & Process Control Systems
- Functional Applications - Remote Monitoring & Control Systems
- Functional Applications - Warehouse Management Systems (WMS)
Applicable Industries
- Food & Beverage
Applicable Functions
- Logistics & Transportation
- Warehouse & Inventory Management
Use Cases
- Inventory Management
- Predictive Maintenance
- Warehouse Automation
Services
- Software Design & Engineering Services
- System Integration
The Challenge
Due to their success and growth, Sigma determined the need for a new large distribution center, to support a number of smaller, second tier distribution centers. The new facility was partially under construction as a conventional operation, when it was determined by Sigma they desired to automate this facility. One parameter of the project was the need to use the already installed steel framing structure in the building – not to tear it and start over. Sigma Alimentos required the new cooler (40° F) distribution center to support full pallet storage, case picking, buffering of pre-picked items for future retrieval and truck loading, and the automation of the inventory management process to support all their warehousing operations. Sigma Alimentos pallets are 40” x 48” and weigh up to 3300 lbs. fully loaded. Westfalia’s Savanna.NET® WMS would need to interface with Sigma’s existing host software system. Westfalia designers worked closely with Sigma’s executives to define and meet specific requirements using both standard and customized system elements.
About The Customer
A division of Grupo Alfa, Sigma Alimentos operates one of Mexico’s largest refrigerated distribution networks and leads the Mexican market in processed meat and cheese products, with brands that include Chalet and El Cazo Mexicano. Sigma recently installed a Westfalia Automated Storage & Retrieval System (AS/RS) at their new distribution center in Monterrey, Mexico. This new refrigerated distribution center was Sigma’s first automated warehouse, and utilizes Westfalia’s Savanna.NET® Warehouse Management System (WMS) too.
The Solution
The AS/RS configured by Westfalia to fit within the existing structure includes two Storage Retrieval Machines (SRM), one in each aisle, plus a center pick tunnel within the rack structure. Unique system features include order picking lanes on both the outside and within the AS/RS rack structure, two and four-pallet capacity high speed transfer cars, accumulation conveyors at shipping, stretch wrapping, and the ability to add dual (two) load handling capability on each of the SRM’s for future expansion in capacity “throughput.” The conveying system includes 3-strand, CDLR’s, gravity rollers, right angle transfer cars, a newly designed quad transfer car, a pallet squaring station, a slave board dispenser, and an electric pallet dispenser. All pallet movements and machinery are controlled by Savanna.Net and interface to Sigma’s SAP host software. The Satellite® load handling device moves pallets quickly and smoothly in and out of the racks, and onto the SRM. The entire system is capable of placing pallets loads up to 12 pallets deep in a single storage lane, and of having various lane depths within a single aisle. In Sigma Alimentos case, pallets will be stored 4- and 5- deep in storage lanes.
Operational Impact
Quantitative Benefit
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