Very Narrow Aisle Rack

 Very narrow aisle pallet rack on sale mainly used with the most advantage three ways forklift, occupying small aisle, saving the 

space of the warehouse, and can store and pick up products quickly, and cutting down the operating cost. which particularly 

suitable for logistic center less than 15 m high.Comparing with the conventional pallet rack,its aisle is much narrower, ordinarily 

1600-2000 mm, the space utilization rate will increase about 20%. Guide rails should be installed on the both sides of aisle for the 

three-way forklift running.

Advantages

1) This storage racking makes optimum use of floor area and roof height by providing high density storage

2) Pallets can be located, accessed and moved individually;

3) The height between levels can be easily adjusted by 50 mm pitch interval.

4) Strength and rigidity prevents compression damage to goods.

5) Bottom level of pallets can be stored on the floor, lowering structure costs.

6) Rich accessories: upright protector, guide rail, frame barrier, row spacer, wire deckings, steel shelf, etc.

Consists of Very Narrow Aisle Rack

A Very Narrow Aisle (VNA) rack system consists of several components designed to create a high-density storage solution in narrow aisles. Here are the key components that make up a VNA rack system:

1. VNA Racks: The VNA racks form the structure of the system and provide storage space for goods. These racks are designed to maximize vertical storage and accommodate narrow aisles. VNA racks are typically taller and narrower compared to conventional racks, allowing for efficient space utilization.

2. Guide Rails or Wire Guidance System: VNA rack systems often incorporate guide rails or wire guidance systems to assist in the navigation of handling equipment within the narrow aisles. These guide systems ensure the precise alignment of the handling equipment, such as turret trucks or wire-guided vehicles, as they move along the aisles and retrieve items from the racks.

3. Handling Equipment: VNA rack systems require specialized handling equipment that can operate within the narrow aisles and interact with the racks. Common types of handling equipment used in VNA rack systems include turret trucks, man-up or man-down order pickers, or wire-guided vehicles. These equipment are designed to navigate the narrow aisles and reach the desired rack locations for storage and retrieval of goods.

4. Warehouse Management System (WMS): A Warehouse Management System is often integrated with VNA rack systems to control and optimize the storage and retrieval processes. The WMS provides real-time inventory visibility, manages order picking, and optimizes the movement of handling equipment within the VNA aisles. It helps to monitor stock levels, track item locations, and ensure efficient utilization of the VNA rack system.

5. Safety Features: VNA rack systems incorporate various safety features to ensure the protection of personnel and goods. These features may include proximity sensors that detect obstructions or obstructions within the aisle, safety gates or barriers to prevent unauthorized access, and emergency stop buttons or alarms for immediate system shutdown in case of emergencies.

6. Lighting and Signage: Due to the narrow aisles and limited visibility, VNA rack systems often include adequate lighting and signage. Proper lighting ensures clear visibility within the aisles, and signage helps guide operators and handling equipment to the correct rack locations, improving safety and efficiency.

7. Floor Guidance Systems: VNA rack systems may incorporate floor guidance systems to ensure precise positioning of the handling equipment within the narrow aisles. These systems can consist of floor-mounted guide strips or magnetic tapes that provide a path for the handling equipment to follow. By following the guidance system, the handling equipment can navigate the aisles accurately and safely.

8. Interlocking Mechanisms: To enhance safety and prevent accidents, VNA rack systems can include interlocking mechanisms. These mechanisms ensure that only one handling equipment unit is allowed in a specific aisle at a time. Interlocking systems can use sensors or automated controls to regulate the entry of handling equipment into the aisles, minimizing the risk of collisions and improving operational safety.

9. Rack Entry Indicators: VNA rack systems often incorporate rack entry indicators to assist handling equipment operators in aligning with the racks. These indicators can be visual or audio signals that guide operators to the correct position for loading or unloading goods. Rack entry indicators help minimize errors and improve the efficiency of storage and retrieval operations.

10. Rack Positioning Systems: VNA rack systems may utilize rack positioning systems to ensure precise alignment of the handling equipment with the racks. These systems can employ laser scanners, cameras, or other sensors to determine the position and orientation of the racks. By accurately positioning the handling equipment, the system enables efficient and error-free storage and retrieval processes.

11. Battery Charging Stations: For electric handling equipment used in VNA rack systems, battery charging stations may be included. These stations provide a dedicated area where the handling equipment can recharge their batteries during breaks or at the end of a shift. Battery charging stations help ensure uninterrupted operation of the handling equipment and minimize downtime.

12. Data Analytics and Reporting: Some VNA rack systems offer advanced data analytics and reporting features. These features collect data on storage utilization, handling equipment performance, and operational metrics. Analytics and reporting tools provide insights into system efficiency, inventory management, and operational performance, helping optimize processes and make informed decisions.

13. Maintenance and Service Features: VNA rack systems may include maintenance and service features to facilitate upkeep and repairs. These can include remote monitoring capabilities, self-diagnostic systems, and alerts for maintenance needs. Such features help ensure the system operates at its best and minimize downtime due to maintenance or repairs.

It's important to note that the specific components and features of VNA rack systems can vary depending on the manufacturer, handling equipment used, and specific requirements of the storage operation. When considering a VNA rack system, it is advisable to consult with the manufacturer or supplier to understand the available components and functionalities of their system.

More advantages of Very Narrow Aisle Rack

Very Narrow Aisle (VNA) racks offer several advantages that make them a popular choice for high-density storage in warehouses and distribution centers. Here are some key advantages of VNA racks:

1. Maximized Storage Capacity: VNA racks are designed to optimize vertical space utilization. By utilizing narrow aisles and compact rack configurations, VNA racks allow businesses to maximize their storage capacity. This is particularly beneficial in facilities where land or building space is limited or expensive, enabling more products to be stored within the available area.

2. Increased Warehouse Efficiency: VNA racks contribute to improved warehouse efficiency. With narrow aisles, VNA racks reduce wasted space and enable better organization of inventory. The compact design allows for shorter travel distances for handling equipment, reducing the time required for storage and retrieval operations. This increases overall operational productivity and throughput.

3. Enhanced Selectivity: While VNA racks are designed to maximize storage density, they still offer selectivity. Each rack position can be accessed individually, allowing for easy retrieval of specific items when needed. This makes VNA racks suitable for applications where both high-density storage and frequent access to individual items are required.

4. Improved Order Picking Speed: VNA racks, when combined with specialized handling equipment, contribute to faster order picking. The narrow aisles and precise guidance systems enable efficient movement of handling equipment, reducing travel time between rack positions. This results in quicker and more accurate order picking, enhancing overall order fulfillment speed and customer satisfaction.

5. Better Inventory Control: VNA rack systems facilitate better inventory control and accuracy. With the use of Warehouse Management Systems (WMS) or inventory management software, businesses can monitor stock levels, track item locations, and implement efficient inventory replenishment strategies. VNA racks provide clear visibility of inventory, making it easier to manage and control stock levels.

6. Enhanced Safety Measures: VNA rack systems often incorporate safety features to prevent accidents and ensure the well-being of warehouse personnel and equipment. These features can include interlocking mechanisms to control access to aisles, proximity sensors to detect obstructions, and proper lighting to improve visibility. By promoting a safe working environment, VNA racks help minimize the risk of accidents and injuries.

7. Adaptability and Flexibility: VNA rack systems are designed to accommodate various types of products and storage requirements. The adjustable shelving and rack configurations allow for flexibility in storing different sizes and shapes of items. This adaptability makes VNA racks suitable for a wide range of industries and applications, from retail and e-commerce to manufacturing and distribution.

It's important to note that implementing VNA rack systems requires specialized handling equipment and trained operators due to the narrow aisles. Additionally, the initial investment cost for VNA rack systems may be higher compared to traditional racking systems. However, the advantages of increased storage capacity, improved efficiency, and better inventory control often outweigh the initial costs, especially in operations where space optimization and productivity are critical factors.

Applications of Very Narrow Aisle Rack

Very Narrow Aisle (VNA) racks are specialized storage systems designed to maximize storage capacity within limited warehouse space. They are characterized by narrow aisles and specialized handling equipment. Here are some common applications of Very Narrow Aisle racks:

1. High-Density Storage: VNA racks are primarily used to achieve high-density storage in warehouses. By utilizing narrow aisles and specialized handling equipment, VNA racks allow businesses to store a larger quantity of goods within the same floor space compared to traditional racking systems. This is particularly beneficial in areas where land or building space is limited or expensive.

2. Order Picking: VNA racks are well-suited for order picking operations. With their narrow aisles, VNA racks enable efficient and streamlined picking processes. Specialized handling equipment, such as turret trucks or guided wire vehicles, can navigate the narrow aisles and retrieve items from the racks, reducing travel time and improving order picking productivity.

3. Fast-Moving Items: VNA racks are often used for storing fast-moving or high-demand items. These racks allow businesses to have quick and easy access to frequently picked items, reducing the time and effort required for order fulfillment. VNA racks are commonly employed in industries such as retail, e-commerce, and distribution centers where rapid order processing is crucial.

4. Cold Storage Facilities: VNA racks find application in cold storage environments, such as refrigerated warehouses or frozen food storage facilities. These racks efficiently utilize the available space in temperature-controlled environments, allowing for high-density storage of perishable goods. VNA racks enable better organization, inventory control, and retrieval of items in cold storage conditions.

5. Automotive and Manufacturing: VNA racks are used in manufacturing facilities, particularly in the automotive industry, where space optimization is essential. These racks provide efficient storage for components, parts, and raw materials, enabling manufacturers to maximize storage capacity within their production areas. VNA racks facilitate quick and accurate retrieval of items, contributing to efficient manufacturing processes.

6. Distribution Centers: VNA racks are widely utilized in distribution centers that handle a large volume of goods. These racks help optimize space utilization, reduce storage costs, and improve inventory management. VNA racks enhance the efficiency of receiving, storing, and shipping operations within distribution centers, ensuring streamlined supply chain processes.

7. Document and Archive Storage: VNA racks are suitable for document storage and archiving purposes. They allow organizations to store a significant volume of documents, files, or records in a compact footprint. VNA racks optimize vertical storage space, making it easier to organize and retrieve specific documents when needed.

It's important to note that implementing Very Narrow Aisle racks requires specialized handling equipment and trained operators due to the narrow aisle width. The selection of VNA racks depends on the specific requirements and constraints of the storage operation, including the type of goods, storage volume, and handling equipment capabilities.