VERTICAL CAROUSEL STORAGE SYSTEMS
- Increased storage density
- Increases storage capacity
- Improved picking accuracy and efficiency
- Increases the safety of workers
- Manufacturers
- Distribution
- Mechanical workshop
- Retail store
A vertical carousel houses rotating carriers that move stored items to the operator at an ergonomic height, making efficient use of otherwise unused vertical space. When floor area runs out, a vertical carousel turns unused height into working space. This automated storage and retrieval system reduces unsafe manoeuvres and provides operators with ergonomic picking. MSK Canada is a proud distributor of VIDIR vertical carousels.
What Is a Vertical Carousel and How Does It Work?
A series of carriers in a vertical loop, like a ferris wheel, rotates to deliver stored items directly to the operator.
- Operator enters the reference to retrieve an item
- Loop rotates by shortest path
- The carrier stops at the carousel’s access window
- Operator picks at waist height
Benefits of Vertical Carousels: Space Savings, Density and Ergonomic Picking
Density
A vertical carousel increases storage without adding floor space.
Capacity
It turns unused vertical space into storage volume.
Accuracy
The product comes to the operator, which reduces picking errors.
Safety
Items are stored and retrieved without ladders or forklifts.
Ease of use
The system requires little training and simplifies material handling.
Configuration
Carriers are adapted to item size and weight, including tires or reels.
Vertical Carousel vs Vertical Lift Module (VLM): Which Automated Storage Type Fits?
Both are goods-to-person: a carousel rotates a closed carrier loop, a VLM extracts trays from fixed columns.
Carousels suit uniform carrier heights; VLMs offer greater flexibility for mixed heights. Compare our vertical lift modules, the ICAM SILO2 VLM, and MHI’s comparison of vertical lift modules and vertical carousels.
| Criterion | Vertical carousel | VLM |
|---|---|---|
| Principle | Rotating carrier loop | Extractor, fixed columns |
| Ceiling height | Moderate | Full building height |
| Item heights | Uniform shelf pitch | Height-optimized capacity |
| Operator access | Access window | Retrieval bay |
| Best fit | Small parts | Mixed sizes |
Vertical Carousel vs Static Industrial Shelving: Where Automation Pays Off
Compared with static shelving, a vertical carousel frees up floor space: according to Vidir, its Pan Carousel can save up to 75% of floor space. A carousel raises storage density and is often a first step toward automated picking. Static industrial shelving remains a good fit for bulky items.
Types of Automated Vertical Carousels From MSK Canada
MSK Canada distributes VIDIR carousels in four configurations, our core types of automated storage.
Ideal for high-density storage and tire retrieval.
Vidir’s pan carousel saves space and applies sound ergonomics.
Semi-automatic storage for wire coils and cables.
Its carriers are shelves for small parts, tooling, and electronic components.
Guide to Vertical Carousels: Sizing and Configuration
Sizing a vertical carousel starts with a few key data points:
- The available ceiling height and the floor loading capacity, especially for heavy loads.
- The dimensions and unit weight of the items, which set the required load capacity.
- The way each carrier is divided with intermediate shelves.
- The number of SKUs and the storage area available.
- The peak throughput and the material handling flows.
MSK starts every recommendation with an analysis of your inventory and operations.
Integrating a Vertical Carousel With Your ERP or WMS
MSK links the carousel to your ERP for order preparation, and to warehouse management systems mapping item numbers to storage locations. IT system integration keeps inventory control accurate as inventory changes.
How MSK Canada Helps You Choose a Vertical Carousel
By analyzing the inventory to be stored and your intralogistics, MSK designs storage solutions tailored to your operations. Your project and quote are handled by an industrial engineer, who analyzes your needs before any recommendation. MSK Canada supplies and installs vertical carousels in Canada, mainly in Quebec and Ontario, and takes care of the storage requirements analysis, design, installation and training.
Vertical Carousel FAQ
Is a vertical carousel an ASRS?
Yes, one of the enclosed automated storage and retrieval systems, alongside vertical lift modules.
How much floor space does a vertical carousel save?
According to Vidir, its Pan Carousel can save up to 75% of floor space compared with static shelving. The actual gain depends on your items, ceiling height and layout.
What can you store in a vertical carousel?
Each carrier in a vertical carousel can store items such as small parts, tooling, tires, or reels.
Automate Your Storage and Optimize Your Space
Get a carousel system sized to your storage needs. Speak with an industrial engineer about maximizing storage potential.