Creform Corporation, a manufacturer of unique products for material handling structures, has designed and built a stair-stepped mobile flow rack to be used by an auto parts supplier in order to integrate into a lineside parts presentation. 

The sturdy, scalable, highly flexible and durable stair-stepped flow rack assists first-in, first out (FIFO) inventory management. ensuring that materials are used in the order that they are received and enable lean manufacturing principles by providing a seamless and organized flow of materials. The flow rack also helps reduce waste and improve overall efficiency in the production process.

The unit features three supply levels and one return level for product presentation. Each level has three lanes utilizing Creform’s skate wheel conveyor for product flow. Each supply level is stepped back from the front of the rack to increase picking efficiency.  The offset levels improve inventory visibility, supports faster response time and picking accuracy.

The Creform gravity flow rack delivers the strength and durability needed for consistent, high-volume use. Built with robust materials and engineered to handle a wide range of load capacities, it provides reliable performance even in demanding environments. The flow rack system is built to adapt as the user’s operation evolves. With adjustable lane widths, depths, and modular components, it can easily accommodate changes in SKU mix, product size, or throughput demands. This flexibility allows you to expand or reconfigure your system without a complete redesign, protecting your investment and ensuring long-term usability as your business grows.

The pictured unit is 70″ T x 42″ D x 33″W and can hold up to 1200  lb. Each of the cart’s levels can be repositioned with only simple tools.  With the stair stepped design, each level can be raised or lowered without changing the length of the conveyor. The unit features four swivel total lock casters and two swivel casters in the middle for structure mobility and is built using Creform 28 mm pipe which provides flexibility and reusability for the user. However, higher capacity and  custom rack sizes and configurations are possible with Creform’s 42mm product line of pipe and joints. Further, the 42mm product line can integrate seamlessly with the 28mm system. 

The stair-stepped flow rack is built with white gray plastic coated steel pipe and black plated metal joints, but as with all Creform flow racks, a wide variety of pipe colors are available, and accessories can include information sheet holders, label holders, tool storage, hooks to hang tools and other supplies. As well as built with feet, rather than wheels.

Creform structures can be built for ESD for anti-static applications. Available as a kit or an assembled structure or in the component form for a complete DIY solution. Ergonomic design is a critical factor when implementing flow racks, helping to minimize bending, lifting, and physical strain on workers.

Creform stair-stepped flow rack for lineside presentation of parts.

Creform, the solution for dynamic material handling needs in the ever-evolving landscape of manufacturing. As pioneers in adaptive systems, we empower companies to seamlessly integrate continuous improvement methodologies like Kaizen, 5S, and lean manufacturing principles.

From pipe and joint structures to gravity roller conveyors and cutting-edge AGV technology, Creform helps optimize efficiency across various applications. Whether it’s streamlining workflow with flow racks and workstations or enhancing mobility with agile carts and AGVs, our solutions are tailored to elevate your operational performance. More than 700 components and 30 years of experience supported by offices in SC, KY and MI.