Chemical plants have transport routes that repeat almost identically every day: finished pallets leave the end of the packing line and go to storage; empty packaging pallets travel back to the filling area. Monotonous, steady tasks like these are good candidates for automated forklifts. This article suggests how to apply the STILL iGo range at each step and what to prepare.
Why automation suits some chemical plant tasks
Filling and packing lines run continuously over several shifts, producing a steady flow of standard-sized pallets. The route from line end to storage is usually fixed. Handing these trips to automated trucks lets drivers focus on work that needs judgement, such as receiving dangerous goods, checking labels and handling incidents. Another benefit is fewer people needing to be present in production areas all the time. To judge when automation makes sense, see autonomous forklifts AGV/AMR: when to automate.
Limits: hazardous areas and non-standard loads
The STILL source documents we hold do not show an explosion-protected version of the iGo trucks, so automated routes should only run through areas assessed as safe under applicable regulations. Automated trucks also work best with uniform pallets and load carriers; loose drums, damaged containers or leaking goods still need people to handle them.
The STILL iGo range by step
STILL AXV 12 iGo: the starting point for short routes
The STILL AXV 12 iGo stacks 1,200 kg to a height of 1780 mm with a working aisle width of only 2480 mm, suited to supplying and removing materials for production. 360-degree safety laser scanners create a safety zone around the truck; the EasyProtectPlus curtain laser adds protection against obstacles that do not touch the floor. The integrated lithium-ion battery offers fast and intermediate charging options.
STILL EXV iGo: from line end to storage
The STILL EXV iGo lifts up to 1,600 kg to a height of up to 3.8 metres, with a top speed of 7.2 km/h for longer distances. It switches quickly between automated and manual mode, and charging can be fully automated. Its redundant safety system meets the requirements of ISO 3691-4 according to the source.
STILL EXV-CB iGo: closed-base pallets and special carriers
Some chemical products are shipped on closed-base pallets or in mesh boxes. The STILL EXV-CB iGo has cantilever forks without support arms, lifts closed-base pallets from the floor, carries 1,400 kg to a storage height of up to 3.8 metres and picks up goods directly from conveyors.
STILL FM-X iGo and AXL iGo
For high-bay storage, the FM-X iGo lifts up to 2,300 kg to a storage height of up to 10 metres with a working aisle under 3 metres, positioning pallets with the PPS system. At dispatch, the AXL iGo loads and unloads pallets up to 1,500 kg on trucks; according to the source, two vehicles working in parallel can load up to 30 pallets in about 35 minutes, integrated with the WMS.
Guide table: step – model – reason
| Step | STILL type/model | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Supplying empty packaging to filling | AXV 12 iGo | Compact, 2480 mm aisle |
| Finished goods from line end to storage | EXV iGo | 1,600 kg, automated/manual switching |
| Closed-base pallets, mesh boxes, conveyors | EXV-CB iGo | Cantilever forks, conveyor pick-up |
| Automated high-bay storage | FM-X iGo | Up to 10 metres, PPS |
| Truck loading and unloading | AXL iGo | WMS integration, loads inside the trailer |
Preparing for deployment
- Standardise pallets: consistent pallet size, quality and stretch wrapping.
- Floors and routes: clean spills quickly and keep aisles free of obstacles.
- System connection: iGo easy allows standalone operation or connection to a WMS.
See more models in the automated truck category, our warehouse automation solutions and other truck types under forklift solutions for the chemical industry.
Frequently asked questions
Do iGo trucks need a WMS connection to run?
Not necessarily. According to the source, iGo easy allows standalone operation for simple repetitive tasks, with WMS connection when needed.
Can automated trucks work alongside people and manual forklifts?
Yes. iGo trucks have 360-degree laser scanners and multi-level safety systems for mixed operation.
Can iGo trucks enter a solvent filling area?
We make no such claim. The area must be assessed under applicable regulations before choosing equipment.
Want to assess automating a transport route? Send a request via the quote page or call 0902 63 79 70.