Valmet saves warehouse space and improves safety in inbound logistics with Agilon

To provide more floor space for its expanding tissue machine production, Valmet reduced its storage space by investing in an automated warehouse solution, Konecranes Agilon. The automated storage and retrieval system Agilon improves occupational safety and keeps item balances current.

Valmet is the leading global developer and supplier of process technologies, automation, and services for the pulp, paper, and energy industries. In Karlstad, Sweden, the company develops and manufactures tissue machines and equipment for the pulp industry, provides rebuilds and services to board and paper mills, and provides automation equipment for the pulp, paper, and energy industries.

“One of our big challenges was storage space and its inefficient use. All small items needed in production were placed on pallet racks that occupied much floor space. We were looking for a solution to increase our storage area and reduce the need for pallet racks to make space for larger items such as tissue machine rolls on the floor,” explains Krister Sigrén, Logistics Manager.

Agilon stands out with its unique features

Of the several automated warehouse solutions available on the market, Valmet chose the Agilon warehouse automation from Konecranes.

Agilon is an automated materials management system that optimizes warehouse storage and retrieval. Using smart inventory monitoring and advanced material handling technology, Agilon maximizes warehouse productivity and makes the most of available space.

Sigrén lists the many reasons that tipped the scales in favor of Agilon. “Agilon has a narrow access point so we can have pallet racks close to it. It picks only one item at a time instead of bringing you a shelf with many items from which you may pick a wrong one by mistake,” he points out.

“What’s more, Agilon does not require specific plastic boxes like similar systems. Instead, we can use the cardboard boxes where the items are originally packed.”

One significant advantage was that Konecranes has a serviced office in Karlstad, which ensures prompt support.

In December 2021, Konecranes delivered and commissioned an Agilon system measuring 30 meters in length and 5.1 meters in height at the Karlstad facilities. This system features two user access points and has been integrated into the company's enterprise resource planning (ERP) system. The agreement also includes a full-service contract and Agilon Global Technical Support (GTS), which offers predictive maintenance and 24/7 remote customer service.

The installation and commissioning of the Agilon system went smoothly and was completed in less time than anticipated. We were able to start the system up earlier than we expected.”

Krister Sigrén, Valmet Logistics Manager

Konecranes also provided two overhead cranes and a runway for Valmet’s warehouse layout renewal project. “The installation and commissioning of the Agilon system went smoothly and was completed in less time than anticipated. We were able to start the system up earlier than we expected,” Krister recalls.

Agilon is in the goods reception area near the tissue machine production facilities. Five active users store, pick, and take the needed items to the production staff. The ERP system produces the picking lists.

A safer, more efficient working environment

Agilon has fulfilled the expectations set for it. As all the small items needed in tissue machine production are now stored in the automated warehouse, Valmet has reduced the number of pallet racks and freed up floor space for large tissue machine rolls. Occupational safety has improved since the staff no longer needs to search for items between pallet racks.

“Additionally, we save time. We no longer need to look for items that are missing. Agilon keeps track of everything and removes human errors when picking items. As stock levels are always up to date, there is no need for manual inventory, which saves us a lot of time,” Krister remarks. “Tracking is excellent, too. We can see all transactions that have taken place in Agilon.”

One of the active Agilon users is Robin Granrud, who is happy with the system. “Agilon helps me pick the right items for the right order. Additionally, it prevents unauthorised picking, which previously created balance errors.”

Another big plus that Kristen points out is the fruitful cooperation with Konecranes. “We have a direct and good dialogue with a technology expert, Aapo Mäkelä, who has listened to our suggestions and developed the software according to our needs. It’s good that Konecranes truly listens to its customers. This benefits Valmet and also other customers.”

As stock levels are now always up to date, there is no need for manual inventory, which saves us a lot of time,” Krister remarks.

Agilon in Karlstad is the first at a Valmet location worldwide. According to Kristen, warehouse automation and automated material handling have sparked much interest now that the company is digitalising its operations. “I think it would be suitable for other Valmet locations, too.”

Photos by Valmet