How do you renew an automated high‑bay warehouse without disrupting daily operations? That question was central to the project at Terumo Europe, an international player in the medical sector. Together with Terumo Europe, we at Actemium carried out a thorough modernization of the existing warehouse, aiming to double the storage capacity from 5,000 to nearly 10,000 pallet positions without impacting production supply.
A story of collaboration, innovation, and growth
Close cooperation with the Terumo Europe project team was essential and established in a very short time frame. The partnership was strong from the very beginning and remained evident throughout the execution.
Peter Thienpont, Project Manager at Terumo Europe, adds: “From the start, we had a very constructive collaboration with Actemium. We also noticed that Actemium has a lot of knowledge and expertise, which allows them to move quickly in a project like this.”
Twinning takes us further
Within Actemium, forces were combined for this innovative challenge, resulting in a unique concept: a stacker crane operating on a single rail, equipped with an integrated shuttle. The outcome was a multi‑deep crane that represents a significant step forward in terms of design, safety, and functionality.
Throughout the project, technical choices were examined closely from sensors and I/O testing methods to drive technologies. Ideas were exchanged, insights shared, and working methods aligned. This open collaboration made the team stronger, and that strength is reflected both in the final result and in the customer’s satisfaction.
Phased approach as the key to continuity
The renewal was carried out step by step. By allowing the old and new systems to operate side by side for a period of time, production supply could continue uninterrupted. Wim Serruys, Project Manager at Actemium, explains: “Together we decided to dismantle part of the old warehouse while already building and commissioning part of the new one.” This phased approach proved to be our trump card: no interruptions, only progress.
In the end, the stacker cranes, racking and conveyors were mechanically, electrically and fully renewed in terms of controls. The result is a more reliable, safer and more efficient logistics process that is ready for the future.
Technology in the service of efficiency
The entire project was executed using Siemens technology, which enabled engineering from one central platform. On top of that, the use of Multi‑User Engineering in TIA Portal allowed multiple engineers to work on the project simultaneously, an important advantage given the scale of the upgrade.
All conveyors are now drive‑controlled, ensuring smooth and energy‑efficient movements. In addition, energy from the cranes is fed back into the grid without the need for braking resistors. Control is managed using the Siemens Crane Safety Library, enabling advanced safety functions.
Seamless integration and co-creation
A crucial aspect was the seamless integration of the Actemium Warehouse Control System (WCS) with Terumo Europe’s SAP ERP system. What began as a technical challenge grew into a strong example of co‑creation.
Together with Terumo Europe, we developed an interface that not only works but also thinks along. Thanks to the integration between their SAP ERP system and our WCS, we can ensure real‑time tracking of logistics flows combined with powerful reporting.
Progress step by step
Beyond the technological upgrades, the project also introduced new ways of working and valuable insights. Because the system operates fully web‑based, it can be easily connected to existing IT structures. Cybersecurity was strengthened as well, for example through the use of security certificates, ensuring better protection of communication within the network.
Finally, the project resulted in valuable knowledge that contributes to future initiatives. The experience gained forms a solid foundation for further innovations and strengthens confidence within the team.
