FROMM Automated Strapping Solution For Warehouse Racking

At FROMM Packaging Australia, we're committed to helping businesses streamline their operations, improve load security, and boost efficiency. One of our recent automation projects delivered a custom solution to secure roll formed galvanised steel profiles for warehouse racking systems. 

Project Overview

Dematic, a leading logistics automation and warehouse storage equipment supplier, required a reliable and efficient way to secure warehouse high bay racking uprights before distribution. Previously, this process was carried out manually by two operators using handheld FROMM P329 battery strapping tools. Whilst effective, this method was labour intensive, slower, and has greater inherent safety risks than automated strapping 

The lengths of the steel sections range from one to thirteen metres, with each section weighing approximately 10 kg per linear metre. Before the upgrade, the downstream were manually packed into trolleys, strapped, and then handled downstream, which created production bottlenecks

To address these challenges FROMM Packaging Australia worked closely with our global automation team to design and deliver a tailored solution that aligned with the customer' production environment and long term goals.

The FROMM Solution

The new system centres around the automatic strapping machine model PM102002, designed and engineered by FROMM Automation in Italy. The system was built to deliver speed, consistency, and further improve safety, with several advanced features:

• MH600 strapping head top mounted with precise up and down movement via a hydro-pneumatic cylinder
• Floating strapping head system- ensuring strap tension is equalised around the product for improved load security
• Robust construction
• FROMM KB4 Strap Dispenser
• Bearer inserter with Lifter & 5 slot magazine
• Advanced Control System - Seimens S7 1200 PLC, KTP 700 HMI, and G120C inverter for reliable automation and performance

Dematic had recently installed a new high speed roll forming machine to produce and stack the product. Once stacked, the bundle is conveyed through the FROMM strapping machine, where it is automatically unitised with PET strap and dunnage. The system then conveys the bundle 90 degree to a collection point for removal by forklift.

The fully automated system eliminates the manual stacking of product and handheld strapping, ensuring products are strapped quickly and securely, and removing manual handling risks.

Installation and Commissioning

Installation was completely in four days, followed by an additional three days dedicated to commissioning and operator training. FROMM Packaging Australia's technical and service teams worked collaboratively to ensure a seamless installation and onboarding process, leaving Dematic confident in operating their new system.

Project Goal & Outcomes

Installation of an automatic strapping system was justified due to the successful delivery of both safety and throughput efficiency improvements:

• Safety - Manual handling of long, heavy steel profiles is no longer required.
• Efficiency - By automating the packing and strapping process, production bottlenecks were eliminated, and throughput was increased.
• Consistency - Automated strap application delivers uniform results, improving downstream product handling and transport security.

This installation is another example of how FROMM Packaging Australia partners with businesses to deliver tailored authentic strapping solutions. By replacing manual processes with advanced automated strapping systems, our customers gain efficinecy and long term reliability.

Ready to explore automation for your business? Speak to our expert team today.