UNICOMPACT 5.0 maximizes storage capacity and optimizes use of the available footprint.
Steel sections are safely and efficiently transferred to the storage system via the circulation station.
The intuitive KASTOlogic interface supports warehouse operators with everyday tasks.1
Fully automated picking station
Due to intelligent circulation stations, Steel and Pipe Supply has increased infeed and outfeed speeds.
UNICOMPACT 5.0 and KASTOlogic automatically and digitally track all inventory and material movement.
After retrieval, the bridge crane with magnetic lifting device takes over the bundled steel bars.
When planning a new storage solution for its Kansas City, KS, service center, US-based steel distributor Steel and Pipe Supply (SPS) had a clear vision: safety, high throughput, minimal error rates, and a compact footprint.
"We supply the Midwest with bar stock, tubes, and structural sections," said John Conley, Co-President at SPS. "Our customers rely on more than just our materials-they count on our outstanding service."
The company's broad product range includes carbon steel such as structural steel, flat steel, and coils. These are supplied to sectors including construction, energy, chemicals, and petrochemicals. SPS also offers a variety of value-added services, such as sawing, drilling, flame cutting, bevel cutting, as well as laser and plasma cutting-providing materials tailored to customer specifications. With its own truck fleet, the company provides prompt and reliable delivery.
Expanding Capacity and Capabilities
SPS had already installed KASTO automated storage systems at its sites in Tulsa, OK, and Longview, TX-both of which have experienced significant performance improvements.
"These systems have made our operations faster, more precise, and significantly safer," Conley explained. "Incorrect deliveries have become a rare occurrence."
Building on this success, SPS once again chose KASTO for its Kansas City project. "We knew we wanted to continue relying on KASTO's dependable technology," Conley added.
Like many steel stockholders, SPS faces challenges such as limited storage space, safety risks from manual handling of heavy goods, and the need for precise stock management. At its Kansas City site alone, SPS handles around 18,000 tons of material. Another factor: due to its location near an airport, the new warehouse had to comply with height restrictions.
Automation in Action
For SPS, the KASTO UNICOMPACT 5.0 honeycomb automatic storage and retrieval system was the ideal solution for the Kansas City facility. Engineered for maximum storage density, the system makes optimum use of the available space-a key advantage given the site's height limitations. Automated loading and unloading processes significantly reduce manual labor while accelerating picking and material flow.
Due to its "goods-to-person" design, orders are processed quickly and ergonomically, enabling high throughput and operator comfort. SPS can now move bar and pipe materials more efficiently with fewer handling errors and less waste.
Key Benefits of the UNICOMPACT 5.0
The UNICOMPACT 5.0 is designed to handle long goods of up to 24' in length and 16" in height. Its high-density configuration, with thousands of individual honeycomb storage locations, provides greater storage capacity than conventional racking systems. Automated material handling further improves workplace safety by reducing direct contact with heavy items-significantly lowering the risk of injury.
Faster cassette changes streamline operations, enabling staff to retrieve and stage orders more quickly. "The system does not just improve safety-it makes daily routines easier, faster, and more rewarding for our team," said Conley. "That kind of upgrade makes a real difference to morale and productivity."
All material movements are monitored in real time via the KASTOlogic warehouse management system. This intelligent software records inventory data automatically, removing the need for manual entries and reducing the likelihood of errors or misplaced stock. The result: greater transparency, improved accuracy, and measurable savings in personnel costs.
A Strategic Investment in Performance and People
For SPS, the investment in KASTO's automated solution aligns with the company's long-term strategy of enhancing safety, efficiency, and accuracy through automation.
"Safety has always been our top priority," said Conley. "This system helps us achieve it without compromising on speed or precision. It is a win-win for our people and our performance."
Although the project involved a few logistical challenges-as is often the case with large-scale installations-Conley praised the fast and professional support of KASTO's U.S.-based service team: "Their support was excellent. Whenever we needed assistance, they were quick to respond and highly competent. That kind of reliability keeps downtime to a minimum and helps us remain agile."
For more information contact:
KASTO Inc.
3002 Venture Court
Export, PA 15632
724-325-5600
sales@us.kasto.com
www.kasto.com