AUTOMATED ROLL WAREHOUSES WORLD PULP&PAPER 60 Figure 4. Automated roll warehouse with rack supported cladding; on the left can be seen three connection tunnels (In & Out) over the rail track; on the right, it is connected to the new PE plant. Right lower corner: the sheltered automated truck trailer loading dock. the stacker crane’s satellite pick- up cradle, which can handle mixed sets of rolls in different sizes (both width and diameters), and whether wrapped, unwrapped or partially wrapped – all at the same time. TOTAL COST OF OWNERSHIP (TCO) DEFINES THE SELECTED CONCEPT When comparing different types of automated warehouse concepts, it is crucial to consider the TCO of each alternative. This means both the CapEx and OpEx cost, related to the warehouse concept itself, but also to the systems and structure needed for its integration into the existing mill operations. This means having the ability to integrate the automated warehouse in the middle of the production process with a minimal number of conveyors and civil engineering to feed the roll flow in and distribute it out to converting and shipping. Here, system suppliers like Pesmel, who can offer the full When comparing different types of automated warehouse concepts, it is crucial to consider the TCO of each alternative spectrum (including conveyor system and all warehouse concepts), tend to have the upper hand compared to part suppliers who are only able to focus upon their own core area. This advantage was obvious in the Stora Enso Imatra installation, where the automated warehouse was integrated into the production operation with eight automated IN/ OUT- connections at different floor levels, and with very limited space in which to operate.