Established for over 30 years, ASM Auto Recycling is widely regarded as one of the UK’s most modern and professional vehicle salvage agents and parts recyclers. They currently process over 25,000 vehicles every year and the growth of their business has resulted in a new site being opened in Aylesbury.
ASM contacted Locators Storage Systems to make a proposal for a cantilever racking system to maximise the storage capacity of vehicles awaiting processing. Previously, ASM had used counterbalance forklifts to move vehicles on other sites, but the aisle widths required for these types of trucks has the disadvantage of reducing overall site capacity.
Locators proposed using a rail-guided Combilift C4000 multi directional forklift, enabling aisle widths to be substantially reduced compared to those needed for a counterbalance truck – at 3220mm this was around half the previous width of 6400mm, significantly improving storage density to provide storage for 432 vehicles. The guided aisle system also enables quicker travel down the aisles for faster operation.
Chris Morgan Director of ASM: “We were very impressed with the proposal from Locators as they achieved a storage density much greater than we had hoped for. They have installed a high quality, British and CE standard, cantilever racking system with adjustable arm positions and additional capacity, which will be useful if vehicles continue to become heavier and taller in the future. Together with the versatile capabilities of the Combilift, they have future-proofed our needs.”
A second phase for storage of an additional 300 vehicles was then completed at this site, and following this successful implementation, Locators were asked to carry out a survey on ASM’s existing Thame site. It was calculated that there was potential to store in excess of 1000 vehicles in an area that had previously accommodated around 560. This involved relocating existing 4-high racking and installing new 8 metre / 5-high racks using the same 3220mm aisle width. A guided Combilift C5000 was specified for this application to provide extra capacity and a greater lift height required for the installation.
Chris sums up: “We are very pleased with the productivity and efficiency gains we have made at our sites. Locators have enabled us to achieve much more without the need to purchase additional land and this has a very significant cost benefit for us.”
