Returnable Packaging Solutions

Established in 2008, Soluplastic USA have been providing returnable packaging solutions for our world class customers. They are representatives from such industries as automotive, food, electronics, appliances, communications, logistics, and all types of general manufacturing. We operate not only in North America, but all over Mexico and Central America.

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Why Use Push-Back Racking Systems for Managing Large Stock Volume?

Often organizations find it a daunting challenge to the right racking system to manage large volume of stock. A constant increase is also noted in the number of manufacturing and shipping companies replacing standard selective racks with push-back racking systems. The push-back racking system is effective in moving the stored pallets forward on the rack for unloading simply though gravity. Instead of requiring the lift truck to drive in, the system allows the pallets to come forward to the truck. Thus, the system allows users to access and manage large volume of stock without any hassle.

                                   [Push-Back Racking System]

Top Benefits of a Push-Back Racking System

1. Efficient and Fast Inventory Management The push back racking system is effective in storing a wide variety of stock in multiple levels. So the stock can be accessed in a quick and efficient way. The system also used nesting or interlocking carts to prevent product damage by eliminating the chances of jamming. At the same time, the combination of enhanced selectivity and high density material handling results in faster pick rates. The enhanced pick rate further increases the efficiency and productivity of pickers.

2. Easy to Detect and Access Stock The push-back racking systems are also designed with color coded rolling carts. Thus, different colors can be used to take stock of the materials visually. Further, each level of the racking system can be accessed individually. So the available storage space can be maximized by using the vertical cube. The conventional selective racking systems, normally, can store a single pallet deep. But the push-back racking systems allow six pallets to be stored in a single rack. The enhanced pallet deep results in maximizing the storage capacity.

3. Perfectly complements LIFO Storage The push-back racking systems are further designed to meet the requirements of LIFO (last in, first out) method of inventory management. So the system allows organizations to store, access and pick products in a flexible way. Also, the forklift truck is not required to drive into the rack. As the truck need not drive into the rack, the chances of any product loss or damage are also minimized. Further, the push-back pallet system also supports space-saving configuration. Thus, the pallet system can be configured properly to avoid hiring additional warehouse space.

                       [LIFO storage - Last In First Out]

4. Reduces Inventory Management Cost In comparison to standard racking systems, the push-back pallet system is much easier to install and customize. So the system can be configured to complement the changes in storage requirements. The system is further operated through a gravity-operated system. So no machinery or equipment is required to store and access the stock. So the push-back pallet system can be modified and maintained without incurring any additional energy cost.

[Push-back rack allows up to 300% more storage capacity than other selective racking. However, while drive-in & drive-through systems can accomodate both LIFO and FIFO storage, push-back is limited to just LIFO storage system.]

In nutshell, the push-back racking system is effective in overcoming the limited storage capacity of standard selective racks. The cost per pallet position will rise as high as 300% while using the racking system. However, the reduced storage space requirements and ready access to the inventory make the racking system popular among modern shipping and manufacturing companies.

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Advantages of Pallet Flow Racking System

The plastic bulk containers are used widely by manufacturing and shipping enterprises across the world. As the containers are effective in storing and managing a wide variety of stocks, organizations has to choose the arrange these in a specific order. As a high density inventory storage system, pallet flow racks allow users to load and unload the stock efficiently. Normally, these racks are designed with rollers or skate-style wheels. Along with being mounted on a gentle incline inside the rack, the rollers or wheels are loaded slight highly at the loading side.

Key Advantages of Pallet Flow Racking System

1. High-Density Pallet Rack System Many organizations use pallet flow racking system as a high density pallet rack system. The rack system complements the handling of inventory through the FIFO (first in, first out) method. Thus, the pallet flow racking systems are used to manage the perishable and time-sensitive stocks like food items and pharmaceuticals. The racking system can be further customized according to the nature of the stock to facilitate inventory management.

2. Enhances Warehouse Safety In addition to complementing FIFO method of stock keeping, the pallet flow racks can further enhance the safety of the warehouse. Each aisle is attached to a dedicated function-loading or picking-forklift traffic. So the traffic follows a path that is very predictable. At the same time, the reduced congestion and forklift travel distance eliminate the possibility of potential collisions. Thus, the warehouse remains safe during loading and unloading of a large number of pallet bins.

3. Additional Forklift Labor Not Required The pallet flow racking perfectly complements FIFO method of inventory management. So the oldest stock will be picked automatically during the loading phase without making any specific arrangements. Also, an enterprise is not required to deploy additional forklift labor to rearrange the stock during loading. However, forklifts still need to be used during the initial loading and final unloading stages. But an organization is not required to deploy additional forklifts, and thus save both man hours and fuel expenses.

4. Easy to Customize An organization also has option to use customized pallet flow racking systems. Normally, each pallet flow rack has the capacity to store up to 20 pallets in a single lane. But the capacity of the racks can be changes to make the racking system adaptable to freezers and cold storage. At the same time, the selective pallet systems can also be converted into pallet flow racking systems by retrofitting wheels and rollers.

5. Saves Cost In addition to saving forklift labor cost, the pallet flow racking systems are also effective in eliminating the chances of inventory damages or losses. Further, the system required smaller warehouse space. So the organization is not required to incur additional expenses towards heating, air conditioning and storage space. As the system is gravity-fed, it can be operated without incurring any additional energy or electricity cost.

In comparison to other racking systems, pallet flow racks are considered to be more expensive. But a properly designed and efficiently functioning pallet flow racking system can save a huge amount of space along with facilitating smooth loading and unloading of cargo.

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The Thermo-Plastic Process

In today’s world, Plastic finds many applications in our daily life. Starting from Textiles, Fashion, Toys and Domestic uses to Nano Technology, Airbus A380 and iPods, plastic is everywhere. And the large shares of these plastics are made of Thermo-Plastics.

Thermoplastic is made by using a specific polymer that can be molded at a higher level of temperature, and subsequently cooled to return to a solid state. The high molecular weight, and the polymer chains connected through intermolecular forces further make thermo-softening plastic easy to remold. Thus, thermoplastic can be processed in a number of ways to make bulk plastic containers and bins. However, thermoplastic processing method needs to be selected based on the specific products to be produced.

Different Ways to Process Thermoplastic:

1. Blow Film

Under this method, a circular die is used for extrusion of the plastic. The extruded plastic then goes through a bubble-like expansion process. A variety of polyethylenes such as LDPE, HDPE and LLDPE are required as the main product to carry out the process. However, the option to blend additional materials with the resins to produce certain items is also available. The process can be used to make a variety of plastic packaging. Along with consumer and industrial packaging, this method can also be used to make laminating, barrier and agriculture films.

2. Extrusion Blow Molding

                            [Extrusion Molding Machine]

This method requires a blow molding machine to plasticize the polymer. Normally, the machine is designed with a standard extruder barrel and screw assembly. Initially, the molten plastic is led through the right angle and then led through a die. The process results in the thermoplastic emerging through a circular pipe section of the machine. The method also uses several materials like Polypropylene, Polyethylene, Polyvinyl chloride and Polyethylene – Terephthalate. This method of thermoplastic processing can be used to produce watering cans, bottles, containers and automotive fuel tanks.

3. Extrusion Profiles and Sheet

It is one of the most widely used methods to form plastic materials. Under this method, heated rotary screws are used to melt and traverse the plastic raw materials at a time. As a continuous process, the method is further effective in producing applications with long length including pipes and gaskets. The typical materials used under the process are PVC, HDPE and PTFE filled PVC. Along with a variety of pipes and tubes, the method can also be used to produce fridge seals, garden fence posts, curtain tracks, door seals and animal feeding troughs.

4. Injection Blow Molding

This method of thermoplastic processing is widely used to produce large quantities of hollow objects. Many organizations use this method to produce bottles, jars and similar containers in large quantities. The method is also effective in producing both narrow-mouthed and wide-mouthed containers with full finishing and superior quality. The method needs certain materials like low density polyethylene (LDPE), polyethylene-terephthalate (PET), polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and high density polyethylene (HDPE).

5. Injection Molding

Along with extrusion ranks, injection molding is one of the common processes to produce plastic articles at a rapid pace. Along with being fast, the process is also effective in producing identical items in large quantities. The process can be used to produce a wide variety of items ranging from disposable consumer goods to high precision engineering components. This method also requires typical materials like nylon (PA), polycarbonate (PC), acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS), polypropylene (PP) and polystyrene (GPPS). An organization can use the process to produce mobile handsets, electrical switches, DVDs, TV cabinets and wheelie bins.

It is always great idea to decide the thermoplastic processing method according to the specific needs of a project. At the same time, you also need to concentrate on the typical materials required by individual processing methods.

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Soluplastic Plastic Containers Repairs

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Soluplastic Bulk Containers

Sale, Rent, Repair, & Customization of Seminew Plastic Pallets and Plastic Containers.

[aredotna]

Milroy Perera Associates have recently unveiled their plans for Clearpoint Tower in Sri Lanka. When completed, the luscious 46-story building will be the world’s tallest residential vertical garden. But it’s not just about looks; designed with the help of Mäga Engineering, the building focuses on sustainable initiatives, using the exterior vegetation to minimize solar heat gain and provide a sound buffer. As a result, the need for air conditioning is reduced, with extra energy provided by rooftop solar panels. Lastly, the need for water is satisfied via an efficient automated drip irrigation system.

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Why Manufacturing and Shipping Companies Prefer Plastic Bulk Containers?

An organization has to consider several factors to store and transport bulk materials without any hassle. The most appropriate containers make it easier for the enterprises to store, access, remove and ship their products without putting any extra efforts. Each organization also has option to choose from a variety of bulk containers. But many manufacturing and shipping concerns prefer plastic bulk containers to the containers made of wood and metal. Unlike wood containers, plastic containers are more durable and reusable. At the same time, these containers also offer additional flexibility in comparison to aluminum containers. There are also several benefits that make plastic bulk containers popular among both manufacturing and shipping companies.

5 Reasons Why Plastic Bulk Containers Score over Other Containers

1) Durable:

You must pick the bins that can be used over a longer period of time. The plastic bulk containers are effective in storing and hauling a variety of stock due to their durable features. In addition to being non-absorbing and more rigid, the bins are further effective in resisting harsh weather conditions. The durable feature of the bins also enables manufacturers to save money by using returnable packaging.

2) Reusable:

Along with being durable, the plastic bins can also be reused to store and haul several types of materials. Unlike corrugates boxes, these containers are designed specifically to be reused over a longer period of time. Also, the minimal wear ensures that the containers last for many trips. Once you use the container to haul a particular type of cargo, these can be washed and reused to store materials of an entirely different kind without any hassle.

3) Safe:

Often workers have to use box cutters to open conventional containers and bins. So there are always chances that they may sustain physical injuries while opening the containers. But the plastic containers can be opened without using any equipment, and thus eliminating the chances of physical injury to any worker. At the same time, the containers can further store and haul a variety of cargoes in a safe and secure way.

4) Recyclable:

Most manufacturers nowadays made containers using plastic that can be recycled easily. So you can always buy bulk containers made from recyclable plastic. Along with contributing towards saving the environment and planet, the recyclable plastic containers further allow you to create less waste in landfills.

5) Cost-Efficient:

As you have option to choose from a variety of plastic bulk containers, you can easily choose the best bins to store or haul your stocks over many years. The durable, easy to clean and reusable features of these containers allow you to avoid buying containers on a regular basis. Further, these containers can be used to store, access, remove and haul a variety of stock in a secure and hassle-free way. So you can reduce the manpower and costs per trip. The combination of these benefits will get you higher ROI in the longer run.

An organization also has option to choose from several types of collapsible plastic bulk containers offered by different manufacturers. So it must evaluate the pros and cons of each brand of container according to the nature and requirements of the stock to be stored or shipped.

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One Way Grocery

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The Strength of Calm... Lake Tahoe There are just days, y'know? When calm is the most powerful thing you can be!!

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The Heart of Rome

A beautiful blue hour over the Roman Forum, the once teeming heart of ancient Rome. ‪

[juliatrotti]

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Beautiful!!

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Pallet Racking Systems: Drive-In and Drive-Through Rack

The requirement of shipping a large number of plastic pallets packed together often encourages enterprises to look for effective rack systems. These racks can be configured in a number of ways according to your specific business requirements. Drive-in and drive-through racks are popular among many shipping and manufacturing companies to store, access and remove a variety of cargoes without any hassle. These racks facilitate the storage of large number of pallets deep in the system while reducing the number of aisles required to access these smoothly.

Better Utilization of Storage Space: Drive-in racks are the selective systems where you can add or retrieve pallets from one side only by a forklift that drives into the rows of the racks from one end only. But in case of a drive-through system you can add or retrieve movable pallets from either side of the row. This ultimately minimizes the required efforts, and allows you to store more pallets in a simple and quick way. Again, the installation of these types of rack systems can maximize the pallet storing capacity up to 75% approximately, in comparison to other racking systems within the same footprint of floor space.

[75% more pallets can be stored in Drive-in and Drive-through rack than selective rack due to higher storage density and less aisle space.]

Rapid Inventory Rotation: Since the configuration of drive-in racks allow the sliding plastic pallets to be loaded or retrieved on the rails from one end, it is normally utilized in consistent last in, last out (LIFO) inventories. It has no time sensitive or aging consideration. But the drive-through rack systems are mostly used for first in, first out (FIFO) inventories. Since these facilitate the loading of pallets from one side and unloading from other side of the rack, it becomes easier for an organization to ensure fast stock rotation.

Functionality: Drive-in/drive-through systems are basically adapted for store and remove a large number of pallets. Generally drive-in racks are installed in conventional warehouses, and also can be used in forming the supporting infrastructures in buildings. These do not require overhead attachment, whereas the drive-through racks derive stability from overhead ties to the building structure. These racks are well suited for installation in freezers. Again the installation of either system is quite simple and straightforward.

[Drive-in and drive-through rack systems consist of uprights, rails and ties. Uprights form the vertical structure to which rails connect, creating shelf levels for pallet storage. Ties provide structure for the system.]

General Construction: Both the rack systems utilize mounted support arms for adding the load rails to the rack structure. These consist of uprights, rails and ties. The rails are connected to the uprights forming a vertical structure and creating shelf levels. Ties mainly provide structure for the system. However the shelf levels can be limited only by size of your facility.

Drawbacks: Drive-in/drive-through systems are costlier than the selective rack systems. The installation cost of a drive-in system may go up to $20 to 30 more per pallet than a selective rack system and $30 to 50 more per pallet in case of a drive-through system. These systems are generally subjected to high strain. Both of them abuses from lift trucks and loads during the daily usage. The main drawback of these racks is they do not allow the access of any one pallet easily at a given time and the stock is restricted to like items only.

Final Word: Drive-in and drive-through rack systems are best with fewer SKU applications and space shortage issues.

[soluplasticusa]

Evaluating Pros and Cons of Selective Plastic Pallet Rack System

Most manufacturing and shipping companies use plastic pallets to store and transport a variety of products without any damages and losses. The companies further use rack systems to organize the pallets properly. Each organization also has option to pick from several pallet rack systems. But most organizations opt for selective pallet rack systems due to their simple and versatile nature. The simple features of the racking system further enable users to store and retrieve pallets without any hassle. These racks are also effective in storing and hauling a variety of industrial equipments and consumer products.

[Selective racks allow accessibility to nearly any pallet at any time. The system’s simplicity translates to lower purchase and installation costs]

Pros and Cons of Selective Pallet Rack Systems:

i. Easy to Store, Access and Retrieve the Cargo Many organizations opt for selective pallet racks to store, access and retrieve the cargo without any delay and hassle. Along with accessing individual pallets, the system further enables them to easily remove all pallets. Similarly, the cargo stored on the selective pallet rack can be accessed without any additional handling efforts, and without changing the position of other stock. At the same time, the lift trucks can easily pull stock from the selective pallet racks without requiring any specialized equipment.

[Selective pallet racks consist of uprights and beams. Uprights form the vertical structure to which beams connect, creating shelf levels for pallet storage]

ii. Option to Change Configuration The selective rack systems are designed with adjustable beam height. So the configuration can be adjusted according the height, weight and volume of your stock. The option further enables you to store additional cargo without investing in extra racks. At the same time, the rack also allows you to avail the advantage of the steel upright-and-beam construction. The highly rigid construction makes the rack more effective in resisting flex. Thus, the selective pallet rack can store a variety of cargo safely regardless of their volume and weight.

iii. Facilitates Rapid Inventory Rotation When you are planning to use the pallet rack to store your stock, it becomes essential to check the option to arrange and rotate the cargo. The selective pallet racks enable users to rapidly arrange and rotate their inventory. As the pallets can be stored and retrieved without any hassle, it becomes easier to rotate inventory using the FIFO (first in, first out) or LIFO (last in, first out) method of inventory control. The option to access and remove pallets immediately also makes the pallet racks suitable for processes that require frequent and rapid rotation of inventory.

iv. Drawbacks Despite allowing users to store and retrieve the pallets without any hassle, the selective pallet racks consume over 80 percent of the available storage or floor space. So a lower amount of actual storage space is available is available for other purposes. Further, the upright-beam construction used by the racks limits their height to an extent of 40 feet. An organization also has to incur additional storage cost while dealing with a larger quantity and volume of cargo.

[Wide aisles and height limitations are two of the few drawbacks of selective pallet rack. The simplicity of a selective pallet rack translates to low upfront purchase and installation costs]

While evaluating the pros and cons of selective pallet racks, you must read the instructions listed on each pallet. The instructions will help you in understanding how to store, transport and retrieve the plastic pallets efficiently by eliminating the chances of damages and losses. The pallet racks must be inspected regularly to ensure a higher level of safety and security.

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Exploring Different Ways to Manufacture Plastic Pallets

The pallets can be used for packaging a variety of cargo. You also have option to pick from pallets made from a variety of material including wood, plastic and metal. But the plastic pallets are hugely popular among transported due to their flexible features and re-usability. Despite being inexpensive, plastic pallets are hugely effecting in protecting cargo from moisture, mild, mildew, dirt and harsh weather elements. If you are planning to manufacture plastic pallets, there are options to choose from several manufacturing processes.

4 Distinct Pallet Manufacturing Processes:

1) Structural Foam Molding

Under this process, plastic pallets are manufactured through low-pressure injecting molding. After melting the polymer, chemical blowing agents that will not react with plastic are introduced. Along with chemical blowing agents, often carbon dioxide or gas nitrogen is introduced to the melted polymer. The introduction of the gas or chemical blowing agent results in reducing the density as well as weight of plastic. So the final product weighs about 20% lesser than the solid plastic pallets.

2) Compression Molding:

This process is considered as the most cost-effective ways to manufacture new plastic containers. In comparison to other manufacturing processes, compression molding saves material from being wastes, along with reducing labor and equipment cost. Under the process, pressure is applied after placing the plastic material in a heated mold. The pressure results in the mold area and cavities being filled with plastic. The pressure is maintained till the pallets are created. The compression molding process further enables you to create plastic pallets from recycled materials like old plastics, synthetic resins and rubber.

3) Rotational Molding:

The rotational molding process is used specifically for manufacturing plastic pallets. The process is initiated by loading a powder or granular plastic material into a mold. Then the mold is sealed, heated and rotated using two axes that are placed in a manner perpendicular to each other. The rotation results in the material being distributed and fused around the mold. The mold is subsequently cooled, and ejected in the shape of a pallet.

4) High-Pressure Injection Molding:

The high-pressure injection molding process is widely adopted to manufacture pallets using high-density polyethylene (HDPE) resin or co-polymer polypropylene resin. A heated barrel with a rotating screw is used to melt the plastic and a colorant together. The input materials are normally melted at a temperature of 250 degrees Celsius. Then the plastic is injected into a mold, and clamped by applying pressure. After the pallets becoming cool, they are ejected from the mold. As this process requires high pressure, there are chances that the energy cost will increase.

Along with these pallet manufacturing processes, you can also consider thermo-forming and profile extrusion. But each process has its pros and cons in terms of resource requirements and cost. So it is always important pick the manufacturing process according to the type of plastic pallet you want to build. At the same time, you must evaluate the pros and cons of the pallet manufacturing processes, and choose the one that complements your requirements as well as budget.

[soluplasticusa]

Top 5 Advantages of Plastic Packaging

Manufacturing and production are some of the key departments in an organization. In order to provide a finalized product to the consumer there’s a series of steps that need to be taken. Plastic packaging plays a major role in that process. Plastic bulk bins and pallets are mainly used for the transportation of parts and finalized goods. In addition to hauling the products safely and securely between vendors and customers, the plastic bulk bins and pallets can further be customized according to the size and nature of the product.

Why Most Enterprises Opt for Plastic Packaging Solutions?

1) Easy to Customize: Each manufacturer picks customized packaging solutions according to the nature and fragility of the product. Unlike other containers, plastic bulk bins and pallets are uniform in shape, size and weight. Furthermore, the containers can be stored and handled easily without requiring more shipping or warehousing space. So it becomes much easier for the user to pick plastic bulk bins and pallets to store or transport their products.

2) Effective in Resisting Harsh Weather Elements: The wood, carton and corrugated packaging solutions are not effective in resisting harsh weather conditions. The quality and durability of these containers are often affected by moisture and humidity. On the other hand, the plastic bulk bin and pallets are effective in resisting harsh weather conditions and moisture. The plastic bulk bins and pallets will not only have a longer durability but they will protect the product from climate related damages.

3) Cuts-Down Supply Chain Cost: Plastic bulk bins have a life span of about 6 -7 years compared to the months or even week’s lifespan the corrugated, wood and carton boxes. They are HDPE made material with superior impact resistance. One plastic bulk bin will have the same cost as 4 corrugated/carton boxes but it will last 35 times longer. This makes them excellent for returnable usage between plants and helping cut off the cost of constantly replacing broken corrugated and carton boxes.

4) Protects Fragile Items: Many manufacturers prefer plastic bulk bins and pallets to wood container to store or ship fragile items. Often the fragile items need special packing to eliminate chances of product damage or loss. The plastic bins provide the right space where the items can be stored to maximize capacity with out suffering any material damages or losses.

5) Easy to Recycle: Many organizations also use plastic pallets due to their eco-friendly feature. In comparison to wood pallets and corrugated containers, the plastic containers and plastic pallets can be recycled easily without polluting the environment. Therefore, purchasing plastic products helps to reduce the carbon footprint. Many companies have put in place a recycling program in which obsolete, unwanted plastic packaging can be purchased and then they are either given credit for future purchases or full compensation for the unwanted material.

By purchasing from organizations that have recycling programs implemented, not only do the customers save money because they are purchasing products that have been recycled, but also they are cutting down on capital expenses.