Warehouse Sortation Systems

So easily overlooked, yet such an integral part of the warehousing business is the distribution sortation systems. Having the right sortation system conveys improved cost and customer service by increasing efficiency. Take into consideration the automation of order picking integrated with material handling via a conveyor system. Commodities are categorized by conveyable and non-conveyable. Conveyable goods move along the distribution center at various speeds depending upon the product and processing requirements. The packages move at a high volume to their destination, to truck docks, and routs.

Sortation Techniques
Low rate sortation typically moves items at about 15 to 20 items per minute and includes the use of a diverter arm that comes across the conveyer to divert the produce onto another conveyor. It can be either manual or automatic. Included in this category is the right angel transfer sorter, which moves the product onto another conveyor at a 90-degree angle.

The medium speed sorter moves approximately 30 to 100 items per minute and typically includes sorters like pop-up wheel sorters for smaller, uniform packages, or multi-belt sorters for sorts at 30 degrees or 90 degrees.

High-speed sortation is available in a variety of configurations. The carousel is used to sort products that are a variety of sizes, and SKUs to be sorted to various locations. A high-speed sorter can accommodate up to 500 SKUs.

There are sorters than can move product at 10,000 items per minute. Sortation systems play a fundamental roll in the distribution industry, so it is imperative to work with a consultant in the field to choose the appropriate system for your warehouse.

Sources:
Diamond Pheonix
bnet.com