Metal fabrication workshops that process aluminum sheets, iron plates, and steel plates in mixed batches need a storage solution that goes beyond simple vertical stacking. The Herochu intelligent metal sheet storage system combines automated sorting, real-time weight monitoring, and ERP-connected inventory tracking in a single tower — giving operators instant access to classified material without manual searching or stock counting.
Automated Classification by Size, Thickness, and Material Type
The defining feature of the Herochu intelligent storage system is its ability to classify incoming metal sheets automatically. When a sheet enters the tower — loaded by forklift, overhead crane, or integrated conveyor — the PLC touchscreen controller registers its dimensions, weight, and material category. The system then assigns the plate to a specific layer and slot that matches its profile, keeping different grades and sizes cleanly separated.
Eight steel layers (expandable and customizable) provide clear separation for different metal sheet batches. This classification matters in practice: when a fabrication order calls for 4000×1500 mm aluminum sheet at a specific thickness, the operator selects that profile on the touchscreen, and the tower retrieves the correct tray in a single automated cycle. One-key delivery cuts material searching time substantially and accelerates production preparation across the shift.
Real-Time Digital Inventory with Built-In Weighing
Traditional sheet metal storage relies on manual stock counts performed weekly or monthly — a labor-intensive process prone to human error. The Herochu tower replaces this model with real-time digital inventory management. Every stored sheet is tracked by dimensions, weight, and quantity, with a built-in weighing function that updates stock records each time a tray enters or exits the system.
Operators can query the current inventory at any point during a shift and receive instant stock data without walking the storage area. The system also supports on-demand stocktaking: when management requests a stock report, the tower generates an accurate count from its internal database — no physical recounting required. This capability alone can save steel service centers dozens of labor hours per month.
ERP and WMS Integration for Material Planning
The Herochu intelligent storage system connects to factory ERP and WMS systems through standard data interfaces. This integration serves several operational purposes:
- Material planning: Production schedules reference real-time stock levels to confirm material availability before committing to a job
- Batch traceability: Every metal sheet is tracked from inbound storage to outbound loading, supporting quality control and order verification
- Expiration warnings: Stock that exceeds a configured storage period is flagged automatically, preventing aged material from entering production
- Data consistency: The storage tower and factory system share a single data set, eliminating discrepancies between physical stock and system records
For aluminum sheet processing and metal distribution operations, this level of integration supports tighter production scheduling and more accurate customer order promising.
Lifting System Performance and Precision
The retrieval and loading mechanism determines how quickly the tower can serve production demands. Herochu engineers the lifting system with an entry-exit and vertical transfer speed of 5–15 m/min and a repeatability of ±2 mm. These specifications ensure that tray transfer between levels remains smooth, stable, and accurate under continuous daily operation.
The standard clear space between trays measures 350 mm, adjustable to accommodate different plate thicknesses. Whether storing thin aluminum sheets or heavy steel plates up to 5000 kg per layer, the lifting system maintains consistent positioning accuracy — a factor that matters when downstream processing equipment expects sheets delivered to a precise pick-up point.
Model Range and Customization Flexibility
Herochu offers four standard models with customizable parameters:
- HC-S3015-63: 3000×1500 mm sheets, 6 layers, 3000 kg per level
- HC-S4015-85: 4000×1500 mm sheets, 8 layers, 5000 kg per level
- HC-S4020-85: 4000×2000 mm sheets, 8 layers, 5000 kg per level
- HC-S6020-105: 6000×2000 mm sheets, 10 layers, 5000 kg per level
Layer count, tower quantity, tray dimensions, load capacity, and net clearance are all customizable to match the workshop layout, plate dimensions, and production volume of each facility. A single tower arrangement concentrates the complete sheet metal stock into one compact column, freeing floor space for processing machines and improving overall workshop safety.
Structural Integrity for Continuous Operation
The steel structure is built with a rigid frame designed for continuous automated sheet handling cycles. A powder-coated surface provides anti-rust performance across every layer, and ESD protection adds static discharge safety for environments storing aluminum and other conductive metals. These features keep the structure reliable in demanding metal workshop environments where humidity, metal dust, and temperature fluctuations are common.
Workshop Integration and Equipment Compatibility
Loading and unloading stations are fully compatible with factory forklifts, overhead cranes, and other standard lifting equipment. Adjustable conveyor legs and leveling feet allow the Herochu tower to integrate into existing material flow lines without extensive floor modifications or layout redesign. For fabrication workshops transitioning from horizontal rack storage to automated vertical storage, this compatibility reduces installation complexity and downtime.
The intelligent metal sheet storage system is built for steel service centers, metal fabrication workshops, steel distributors, and aluminum extrusion processors — facilities where material classification accuracy, inventory visibility, and retrieval speed directly determine production throughput and order fulfillment performance.
