Global chemical logistics and engineering company Katoen Natie started deploying locally-developed xSQUARE Autonomous Guided Vehicles (AGV), or commonly referred to as autonomous forklifts, at its Jurong Logistic Terminal in Singapore.
The pilot AGV was first deployed to operate on a 24/7 basis to move products from the automated packaging lines to the storage facilities. These AGVs are unmanned, electric-powered robots that automatically navigate, communicate and perform material handling tasks. They excel in repetitive movement of materials over a predetermined path, enabling the company to improve productivity by redeploying skilled operators for more complex tasks. In addition, direct integration with the Warehouse Management System enables visibility on the product flows, reducing discrepancies and improves quality.
After a successful pilot test run, the project will gradually expand to a fleet of five AGVs, by the end of the year, and possibly also eventually to other regional markets reinforcing Katoen Natie commitment to automation and digitalization.
“We are renowned for our engineering solutions to service the chemical industry. This AGV project is a good example of the many projects we are pioneering in automation and digitization” said Mr. Koen Cardon, CEO of Katoen Natie Singapore. “Projects like this brings improvements in Safety, Quality and Productivity which helps us to make a difference for our customers.”
INNOVATION AND SUSTAINABILITY
The AGV project would reinforce Katoen Natie sustainability goal of reducing carbon footprint while ensuring a competitive and sustainable chemical logistics service for their customers. The whole project is powered by the large solar installations on the rooftop of the company’s Jurong Logistics Terminal.
Mr. Cardon further explained, “It is significant that we undertake this project in Singapore, where the Singapore Government, through Enterprise Singapore, supports the innovation drive towards more automation and digitization in the logistics sector. Singapore is a cornerstone in our global network and we aim to extend this project to multiple locations worldwide.“
KATOEN NATIE’S PARTNERSHIP WITH GOLDBELL’S SUBSIDIARY, xSQUARE
Katoen Natie entered into a partnership with xSQUARE, a subsidiary of Goldbell Group, who tailored the AGV units to match Katoen Natie’s operational requirements. “We found xSQUARE to be an excellent partner to join us on this journey as they have demonstrated not only the innovative capability of their proprietary technology, but also a strong commitment to make this project successful”, said Mr. Cardon.
“It was a pleasure to work alongside a good partner like Katoen Natie who were not only clear in their expectations but also forthcoming in providing engineering and ICT support.” said Mr. Arthur Chua, CEO
of the Goldbell Group. “To successfully meet their high standards with the seamless integration of our AGV solutions into their existing ecosystem is not only an honour, but also a validation of the inroads that our venture-built company xSQUARE has made into the realm of smart warehousing. We look forward very much to future opportunities of supporting the continuing success of Katoen Natie.”
Mr Law Chung Ming, Executive Director for Transport and Logistics, Enterprise Singapore, said, “xSQUARE’s pioneering technology in Autonomous Guided Vehicles (AGV) will be key in transforming Singapore’s transport and logistics sector to one that is smarter and cleaner. We are proud to have supported xSQUARE to sandbox market demand solutions and develop proprietary capabilities. The partnership with Katoen Natie is a good example of how Singapore companies can tap on Enterprise Singapore’s network and support to develop innovative solutions that improve business outcomes and support industries’ sustainable goals.”
Mr. Cardon added, “Our company slogan is “Our People Make The Difference” but it is fair to say that in this case our co-operation with Goldbell helps us to Make A Difference “.
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