02 May Keg Flow Racking Guide
As beer distributors and wholesalers grow their businesses, the number of SKUs and kegs will increase. These businesses need to accommodate their products, maintain their pick rates, and increase the storage density of their warehouse.
How to Choose a Keg Rack
Keg flow racking is built with high-quality structural or roll-formed steel and can be added to a new or existing rack for an affordable keg storage upgrade. Breweries and distributors can choose their ideal keg storage solution that meets their goals and accommodates their variables. Considerations include:
Keg size
For breweries that stock various keg sizes, the keg flow racking should be tailored to the keg size it will store. Keg racks from Twinlode Automation fit sixth barrel kegs, one of the most common keg sizes, among others.
Keg storage lane width
Lanes keep the stored kegs organized. The lane width must accommodate the keg’s size. An efficient keg storage system uses only the space needed to fit the kegs without waste.
Number of keg lanes
Breweries need to determine the number of lanes they need in their keg flow rack based on the keg size, number of levels, inventory size, number of SKUs, and other factors. Breweries can use this information to find a rack system that meets these requirements.
Range of SKUs
Each SKU in a brewery is unique, with some having a higher product turnover than others. Breweries should assess the storage requirements of each SKU to set up keg racking that enhances storage and picking processes.
Roller width
The correct roller width depends on the keg’s size. The roller should be 0.5 inches wider than the keg’s diameter.
Side rail height
The keg sits low in the lane, and the side rails guide it as it moves. The side rail’s height depends on the keg’s height and size.
Benefits of Keg Flow Racking Systems
Maximum storage density
Keg racking can be configured up to four levels high to maximize density. Keg racking provides improved storage density with more pick faces than traditional pallet storage, maximizing your warehouse space. The superior storage density and product flow allow for sixth barrel keg storage.
Improved efficiency
Keg racks significantly improve picking efficiency, as SKUs are organized in separate lanes. Many pick faces allow the CBR to handle multiple SKUs.
Better accessibility
Keg racking keeps products easily accessible from the front or back of the racking unit.
Cost and time savings
Keg storage addresses how to move products quickly and efficiently in the warehouse environment, saving time and money.
Durability
The keg racks implemented by Twinlode Automation are built with high-quality structural or roll-formed steel.
Safe and comfortable handling
Kegs index to the front of the rack for safer, more convenient handling.
Contact Us About Keg Rack Systems
Keg racks are purpose-built solutions for organizing and storing kegs efficiently, promoting high storage density and accessibility for all product SKUs. Twinlode Automation has years of experience implementing keg racks in breweries. We also offer professional services such as consultation, design, and implementation for racking systems.
To learn more about keg storage, contact us online.