NLMK Lipetsk has commissioned a 10,000 m2 automated warehouse complex as part of its efforts to boost the efficiency of its production processes. The complex will enable 24/7 supply of spare parts, components, and consumables to repair shops, reducing internal order completion time by a factor of four.
NLMK Group claims to be the largest steelmaker in Russia and one of the most efficient in the world. The company's steel products are used in various industries, from construction and machine building to the manufacturing of power-generation equipment and offshore wind turbines.
The Lipetsk complex is equipped with software based on the SAP Extended Warehouse Management system (SAP EWM). Using its built-in algorithms, the solution calculates the optimal placement of materials in the warehouse, plans the activities of equipment and staff, and oversees every stock keeping unit using bar code identification. Digitalization of warehouse operations helps discontinue the use of paper documentation and prevent errors in order processing. NLMK claims that the use of high shelving systems for cargo placement will enable a six-fold increase in usable storage capacity.
NLMK produces over 18Mt/yr of steel and operates production facilities in Russia, Europe, and the United States.