Lindab, a leading provider of ventilation components, has continuously invested in automation to enhance efficiency and streamline operations. In recent years, the company has focused on digitalization and smart logistics to optimize production workflows. A key challenge they faced was the inefficient internal transport of materials, where skilled production workers spent valuable time operating manual stackers instead of focusing on core tasks.
“We conducted an informal study by tracking the hours spent on manual transport. It turned out that nearly a full week’s worth of work was spent on moving materials in a specific production area. That was a huge inefficiency”, explains Niels Kammer, Production Engineer at Lindab.
Addressing the Challenge of Freeing Up Production Capacity
Before implementing automation, Lindab relied on production staff to transport components from production to storage. This led to inefficiencies, as workers were frequently engaged in internal logistics rather than focusing on their tasks that create value for themselves as well as the company.
“When an operator is standing on a stacker, they are not producing. And we wanted our skilled employees to be fully engaged in what they do best – manufacturing high-quality products” Niels Kammer states.
Why SCANLOX and AGILOX?
After evaluating different solutions, Lindab chose SCANLOX and the AGILOX AMR due to its flexibility, omnidirectional movement, and intelligent obstacle handling.
“Unlike traditional AGVs, which require manual intervention to resume operations after encountering obstacles, AGILOX can evaluate its surroundings and continue autonomously. That was a crucial factor for us”, Niels Kammer explains.
Another key advantage was the AMR’s ability to adapt to changing environments without extensive reprogramming. Before making the final decision, Lindab consulted their colleagues at a factory in Warsaw, Poland, who had already implemented an AGILOX AMR.
“They shared their experiences and even provided video demonstrations. That gave us the confidence to proceed with the investment”, Krammer adds.
Implementation and Overcoming Challenges
The implementation process was swift, with SCANLOX providing on-site support to ensure a smooth transition.
“We had some technical challenges along the way, but SCANLOX was always there to help. Their responsiveness and support were excellent,” Niels Kammer states. “Michael (red. SCANLOX Service & Support) was on-site whenever needed, and we never felt left alone with any issues.”
One of the main challenges Lindab faced was adapting the AMR to their varying pallet types. Unlike standardized euro pallets, Lindab frequently uses single-use pallets with inconsistent dimensions. This required adjustments to ensure reliable pick-ups and drop-offs.
“We had to add guiding rails to compensate for height variations. It wasn’t a dealbreaker, but it’s something we had to work around”, Niels Kammer explains. “If the upcoming AGILOX model can lower its forks just a few millimeters more, it would make a world of difference for us”.
To ensure smooth operations, Lindab also focuses on how employees interact with Shrek the AMR (red. All AGILOX AMRs are assigned a name before leaving production in Austria.). They are encouraged to treat it as a team member, by placing pallets correctly at designated stations, to minimize potential disruptions.
“The easier we make it for the AMR, the fewer issues we face later on. Employees quickly realized that setting pallets correctly at stations meant a smoother workflow”, Niels Kammer notes.
Additionally, workers discovered that when only one pallet was placed at a station, positioning it at the outermost point significantly increased efficiency. By placing a pallet at the outer edge of the station, the AMR can pick them up faster, reducing wait times and improving overall efficiency.
Employee Culture and Adaption of Automation
A crucial factor in the successful implementation of the AGILOX AMR was the openness and adaptability of Lindab’s employees. Unlike many automation projects where resistance to change can be a hurdle, Lindab experienced a seamless transition with no pushback from the workforce.
“The biggest issue we had in the beginning wasn’t resistance, it was curiosity. When the AGILOX first started operating, production nearly stopped because everyone wanted to see it in action”, Niels Kammer recalls with a smile. “But within a few days, it became another part of the workflow, and people quickly adapted”.
“Now, if the AMR stops working for any reason, employees come to us immediately because they rely on it a lot. It has become an essential part of their daily operations”, Niels Kammer explains.
Results Confirming a Streamlined and Efficient Workflow
The AGILOX AMR has significantly optimized internal logistics at Lindab. Instead of manually transporting materials, operators now place pallets in designated stations and request transport with a simple command.
Key measurable results from 2024 include:
- 1613 km driven
- 10189 pallets transported
- 295 tons moved
Looking Ahead
Lindab sees further potential for automation and expansion of the system in the future.
“We’re only scratching the surface of what’s possible. There are still areas in our production where we can expand automation”, Niels Kammer notes.
Final Advice to Other Companies
When asked what advice he would give to other companies considering automation, Niels Kammer’s response is clear.
“Buy an AGILOX. It works. And there are so many ways to set it up, whether manually requested transport or fully automated workflows. The flexibility is a major strength”.
With SCANLOX’s expertise and AGILOX’s cutting-edge AMR technology, Lindab has successfully streamlined their internal logistics, freeing up valuable production capacity and ensuring a more efficient workflow.
