Fonterra approached us for an Automated Guided Vehicles solution when they were concepting their new multi-million-dollar milk powder plant at Pahiatua. The new facility demanded best in class operations, and efficiencies and RML worked with Fonterra’s operations management and consultants at Babich during the design phase.
RML was tasked with the purchase, and all localised integration, for an automated solution. Previously the palletising of bulk milk powder required a forklift driver to be working 100% on transporting pallets from production to a day store in the warehouse.
The automated solution created a 24/7 ‘lights-out’ operation’ meaning that the guided vehicles could stack pallets weighing 1500 kilos into Fonterra’s day store and from there be moved on to their Distribution Centre in bulk every 6 hours. Dramatic labour savings!
The vehicles perform a 600m round trip 24/7.
In addition, the AGV system was designed to ensure that all the required consumables could be supplied and loaded without any human involvement and that empty pallets be returned for re-use.
The four AGVs at Pahlatua proved so successful that Fonterra commissioned similar installations at the Te Rapa, Darfield and Lichfield factories.
RML have an amazing team of people. They were easy to work with and were happy to assist with any problems we encountered during the design and commissioning process.
We’ve been so impressed by the level of service and quality of machinery that RML have built for us. With such an efficient machine, we’ve had no problem keeping up with production times and demands.
Working with RML on an innovative solution was straightforward. Their in-house expertise in all aspects of the design and build added value to the project delivery process and made some tough challenges easier to overcome.
Our experience working with RML has been positive. We feel we received value for our investment.
The machine provided by RML has to date, resulted in consistent high-quality product for SNPshot Technologies and guaranteed production costs.
We saw a 30% increase in line speed and output as a result of the RML equipment
The trust and reliance that has grown from this project has us achieving numnbers we previously did not think would be possible. We will be searching for opportunities to collaborate with RML in future.
Our integrated, advanced operation ensures the best quality cream cheese is produced consistently.
It was an opportunity to increase the packing line automation, with labour savings offsetting the capital costs.
RML worked with us to understand our requirements and designed a solution to suit our needs. RML delivered an automated system to service two moulding machines producing the Gallagher Ring Top Posts.
We set RML a challenge, design and build a new butter packing machine for a challenging application. RML produced a smart and effective solution that exceeded our expectations.
Ongoing service and support is important to us. RML knew this and I am pleased to say we are not disappointed. I have and will continue to recommend RML to others in our industry based on our experience
IF YOU HAVE A PRODUCTION CHALLENGE,
WE’D LOVE TO SOLVE IT.
