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Automation is just one word -- and not the most important -- that describes what's happening with vertical reciprocating conveyors today. Other key words are:
Acceptance. Questions like does it work? or is it safe? have been answered by the growing number of successful VRC installations throughout the country.
Acceptance of VRCs is now more the norm among states' elevator authorities than it was 10 years ago. (Of course, if there weren't a few rogue states like Pennsylvania, I wouldn't be writing Red Tag Report every month. However, these obstacles will be overcome as administrations change and the strength of the vertical reciprocating industry grows.)
Industry. That's right. There are enough manufacturers of vertical reciprocating conveyors and enough development in the technology to label the VRC movement an industry.
"If you compare the VRC industry in the 1994/95 time frame to, say, 1988/90, you'll find that not only is it much larger but also that its manufacturers are more knowledgeable," notes Mark Burrall, general manager, Freightlift America Division of Autoquip Corporation. "And the VRC technology is much further ahead than you would expect in this short time frame."
Experience. Another word that applies not only to the VRC industry but also to the users who have worked with the equipment. "Customers are figuring out different ways to apply VRCs," says Greg Furlong, vice president, Joyce/Dayton Corp. "We're seeing diversification in the types of applications."
Availability. With about 10 manufacturers in the VRC industry (each with its own distributor network), the user has choices. Now you can choose a supplier that matches your requirements, such as:
* Breadth of line;
* Experience in my industry;
* Capable material handling equipment distributor in my area;
* Knowledge of building code and elevator safety regulations in my state;
* VRC installations I can visit;
* Experience with automated systems;
* Price range of VRC equipment.
TYPES OF AUTOMATED VRC SYSTEMS
"The image of vertical reciprocating conveyors used to be limited to their role as special devices for moving loads between floors in old multistory buildings," says Robert (Bob) Pfleger, president, Pflow Industries, Inc. "The new image of VRCs includes their role in integrated, computer-controlled material handling systems."
The first kind of automated VRC system that comes to mind...