Corby, UK: NewCold will use its bespoke automated pallet handling system in its new Corby site.
The system was developed in 2019 and installed at customer sites with similar unloading systems as at theWakefield site. NewCold is working with customers to look at installing similar technology at production sites and at its new site in Corby, due to open next year.
The automated loading currently implemented bridges the gap between the deep-frozen production or storage environment and NewCold’s auto-loading 44-pallet double-deck trailers. As soon as the product leaves the production line at minus 22 degrees, it is automatically loaded through a sliding door at the back of the 60-pallet-capacity pod, which is cooled to the same temperature. From here the pallets are automatically transferred to the double-deck trailer, docked to the front of the pod.
Three refrigeration systems hold the temperature at a constant minus 25 degrees. Automated loading completed in five minutes, with pallet remaining at minus 22 to minus 25 degrees. At no time during its journey from the production line to loading in the trailer is any pallet exposed to an ambient environment or handled by hand. This gives temperature integrity and eliminates damage.
The same process is reversed when the load reaches the NewCold warehouse where the trailer is automatically unloaded in approximately 5 minutes, directly into a frozen store. Faster turnaround times reduce supply chain cost and by linking directly to production loading, efficiencies can be achieved at production sites.
NewCold says its double-deck trailers make a positive impact on the environment by reducing road miles, compared to standard trailers or even longer length trailers.
