In a world where Scotch Whisky is in ever-increasing demand, Chivas Brothers is making waves by automating the handling and palletizing of whisky casks. Using a KUKA industrial robot and custom end-of-arm tooling from SCM Handling, Chivas Brothers is tackling end-of-line palletizing tasks more safely and efficiently than ever before. This transformation is not just about efficiency; it's about reshaping the way they work, making the process safer, and increasing their production outputs. Watch the embedded video below to experience the future of whisky production.
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Exponential Growth in the Whisky Industry
The whisky industry, including Chivas Brothers, is experiencing remarkable year-on-year growth. Chivas Brothers, one of three spirit process facilities within the company, handles new make spirit, which is transferred to casks for maturation.
Chivas Brothers and SCM Handling joined forces in 2017, with the aim of bringing automation to the whisky industry. SCM Handling, already experienced in brewing and cider industries, provided their expertise in keg handling, making them the perfect partner for this groundbreaking project. Their experience and knowledge in cask handling, specifically in whisky production, were essential to the success of this endeavour.
Eliminating Manual Handling and Working at Height
One of the key challenges in the whisky industry has been manual handling and working at heights, which pose safety risks. Automation has now made these risks a thing of the past. By reducing manual handling and working at height activities by 50%, Chivas Brothers can process and fill more casks in less time. Additionally, automation has allowed for the development of larger heavy goods vehicles, leading to reduced fuel consumption and contributing to Chivas Brothers' sustainability efforts.
The KUKA KR 700 palletizing robot is at the heart of this transformation. Known for its cost-effectiveness and low energy consumption, it is the ideal choice for forward-thinking companies.
Embracing Industry 4.0 and the Future
Chivas Brothers is committed to embracing Industry 4.0 principles, ensuring the whisky industry remains at the forefront of innovation. This transformation is not just about improving efficiency; it's about reshaping the way they work, making the process safer, and increasing their production outputs. The KUKA robot is the first of its kind in the whisky industry, heralding a new era in whisky production that prioritises both people's safety and the environment.
To fully appreciate this revolutionary change in whisky production, we encourage you to watch the embedded video above. Witness how KUKA's innovative technology is revolutionising an industry with a rich heritage and setting a new standard for safety, efficiency, and sustainability. The future of whisky production is here, and it's nothing short of extraordinary.