What is an ASRS?
Automated storage and retrieval systems (ASRS) come in many forms — mini-load, shuttle, VLM (Vertical Lift Modules) or cube storage. Insurers often focus on fire protection alone and regularly confuse one system with another.
The distinction that structures the whole analysis is not the brand but the loading mode. A top-loading ASRS (TL ASRS) loads and retrieves from above, over a continuous storage block. A horizontal loading ASRS (HL ASRS) is served from the side, aisle by aisle. The two call for different protection strategies, and mistaking one for the other invalidates the design from its first assumption.
System families and their suppliers
We work closely with suppliers of mini-load, stacker-crane, shuttle and cube-storage solutions, each of which is proprietary and carries its own technological specifics.
In the European market the term ASRS covers systems that differ widely from one another. Integrators and manufacturers the category designates include: AutoStore, Exotec, Hai Robotics, Geek+, TGW, Attabotics, Ocado, Kardex, Dematic, Element Logic, Bastian, Viastore and Smartlog.
We have built a highly specific competence and a perspective that resonates with the logistics industry.
The standard — FMDS 8-34
The applicable reference for automated storage is FMDS 8-34, FM Global's Factory Mutual Data Sheet 8-34. It sets the protection assumptions according to block geometry, tote material and loading mode.
General-purpose standards reach their limit here: an automated warehouse is not a taller conventional warehouse, and transposing a rule written for pallet racking leads to wrong conclusions in both directions — costly over-design or insufficient protection.
What we do
With more than sixty projects deployed across a dozen European countries, we know these technologies and are able to say what we know and what we do not.
Our services include specialised training, project monitoring and a methodology for assessing the different ASRS systems.
We sell no equipment, no installation and no maintenance. Our independence from integrators and insurers is what makes the report usable on both sides of the table.
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