Schaeffler and SSI Schaefer share a long-standing partnership and previously developed one of the most advanced distribution centres in Europe, located in Kitzingen. This established trust forms the foundation for the new project, which brings together future-ready technologies in a thoughtfully integrated design.
The Katowice facility will feature Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs), Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs), intelligent robotics, and advanced conveyor systems, all working in harmony to ensure smooth material flows. The challenge? The installation is taking place in a building with a height of just 12 meters. SSI Schaefer’s engineering expertise shines here: the system is designed to maximise available space and can be easily scaled by adding more AMR or AGV units.
Said Dr. Jörg Zellerhoff, Warehouse Engineering Logistics Techn: “Our goal was to combine maximum efficiency with maximum flexibility. This new distribution centre allows us to respond quickly to changing market demands.”
At the heart of the facility is an automated small parts warehouse with over 120,000 storage locations. It’s powered by 55 RackBots and 116 RunBots. RackBots autonomously store and retrieve containers across all levels, while RunBots connect the system to the conveyor technology. Directly linked is the destacking area, where an intelligent robotic cell automatically separates small load carriers and prepares empty pallets for further processing. The portal robot used for this task is implemented by RO-BER. Key advantages of this robotic approach include gentle product handling, consistent performance regardless of item size or weight and reduced physical strain for employees.
AGVs transporting small parts supply ergonomic workstations with full flexibility, while pallet AGVs handle the transport of larger load carriers. These driverless systems, supplied by DS AUTOMOTION, form a crucial part of the value chain. The AGVs can be adapted to various applications and operating environments, ensuring seamless integration into warehouse operations.
With the new highly automated warehouse, Schaeffler is relying on state-of-the-art control technology through SAP Extended Warehouse Management (EWM). The implementation is being carried out in close collaboration between expert teams from Schaeffler and SWAN GmbH. Schaeffler develops the tailored business logic within the Warehouse Management System, the heart of SAP EWM, while SWAN provides the intelligent material flow control, within SAP. This includes the seamless integration of all technical subsystems, such as the conveying system, the automated small-parts warehouse and the AGV fleets. The entire installation is operated and monitored via a central information platform: the WAMAS Control Centre ensures full transparency, coordinates material flows and delivers essential KPIs for optimisation and maintenance. The result is a seamlessly orchestrated intralogistics solution that combines efficiency, precision and future viability.
Concluded Dr. Zellerhoff: “This project demonstrates how state-of-the-art technologies can be integrated into a cohesive, high-performance system. With shared experience and a strong spirit of innovation, both Schaeffler and SSI Schaefer are confident: the Katowice distribution centre will be a key element of Schaeffler’s global logistics strategy, and another milestone in a powerful partnership.” For more visit ssi-schaefer.com
