VWR International is a global laboratory supply company with a long-standing presence in the market. It has been working with
Precision Facilities Management for several years now, and through a tender process, the contract was first obtained. Since then, VWR has consistently renewed it, which is a sign of the trust built over the years.
With the expansion of VWR’s operation, it was evident that its storage arrangement was in need of a major rethinking. The previous model was mainly dependent on human labor and was not utilizing the area to its fullest. They were looking for something more contemporary and productive, which is why the automation project at
VWR International came into the picture, and our team was chosen to carry it out from scratch.
The Conditions that Needed to be Altered
The problem was not only about improving the storage space. VWR had the need for a system that could handle the escalating demand, lessen unnecessary handling, and make the daily work more convenient. To achieve this, there would be no automated equipment installation to be done until the complete upgrading of the electrical and data infrastructure that supports the existing system was done.
How Our Team Delivered the Automation Project at VWR International
The project was headed by our in-house engineer, Steve Lobley, who ensured that everything was performed correctly and according to the schedule for the entire process from initial planning to final checks.
- Electrical and Data Setup
The first step was to lay new power and data cabling throughout the storage area. This made sure that the entire area was ready for automation, not only the high-density areas.
Access Points and Cabling
Two access points were placed very strategically, and four Cat5e cables were connected to them. The automated system receives fast and reliable communication thanks to these access points.
- Cable Tray Under the Mezzanine
To make everything more manageable, a cable tray was installed under the mezzanine floor. It keeps the power and data lines neat and safe, which also makes maintenance easier.
Power and Data for the Auto Store
The cabling coming from the mezzanine was routed to the Auto Store hatches and chutes. These are the main points where stock enters and leaves the automated system.
We installed LED battens with motion sensors in the area under the mezzanine. This not only improved the overall visibility instantly but also contributed to a reduction in energy consumption from unnecessary lighting.
Eight new workbenches were installed, each with trunking and data points. They are now assisting the team with monitoring, packing, and handling general tasks.
A Successful Collaboration
Faster and Smoother Transactions
The automation project at VWR International got rid of the time-consuming and repetitive manual jobs, thus enabling stock to move through the building much faster.
Optimized Space
