ASRS Market Growth
As warehouse automation continues to increase, automated storage and retrieval systems (ASRS or AS/RS) have become essential for optimising space and reducing labour costs, allowing a more efficient storage and retrieval of items in specific locations.
This rapid global growth is due to a combination of operational pressures and technological advances:
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E-commerce and fast fulfilment – Rising demand for speed and accuracy.
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Labour shortages – Automation fills the gap in staffing.
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Space constraints – Vertical storage makes better use of limited space.
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Resilience – Businesses want systems that reduce disruption and downtime.
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Technology improvements – ASRS is now more accessible, integrated, and scalable.
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Sustainability – Efficient energy use and reduced footprint support ESG goals.
A recent report shows that the global market for ASRS is projected to grow from $4.5 billion in 2015 to over $15 billion as we approach 2030.
Source: Fortune Business Insights, 2024
Safeguarding ASRS Applications
ASRS systems, which include shuttles, cranes, carousels, and vertical lifts, may span across multiple aisles and are widely utilised in manufacturing and distribution facilities. However, all their moving parts and automated components pose potential hazards to personnel who may need to access the aisles.
Fortress have supported multiple projects to safeguard global ASRS applications, and we have become trusted to offer easy to install solutions that conform to local standards and that are easily scalable.
Why Fortress Safety for your ASRS?
With over 40 years of experience in machinery safety and interlocking, Fortress Safety has become a trusted provider across all industries and applications, including logistics, warehouse automation, and ASRS.
Companies we work with to provide ASRS solutions
Fortress is the ideal choice to enhance ASRS safety, offering cutting-edge interlocking solutions featuring all the necessary functions to protect personnel while ensuring operational efficiency.
Core benefits include:
Conformity with globally recognised standards
Allowing users to conform to safety standards such as EN 528 – the European standard about rail dependent storage and retrieval equipment. Alternative solutions tailored to the U.S. and other global markets are also available.
User-friendly operation
Ensuring operators can work seamlessly without unnecessary complexities. By integrating key-operated switches, pushbuttons, and other functionalities, Fortress interlocks enhance workflow efficiency.
Seamless integration
Whether using PROFINET, EtherNet/IP, or EtherCAT, Fortress network-enabled interlocks and control pods allow for rapid installation, reduced wiring, and simple troubleshooting, minimising downtime and maximising productivity.
Adaptability to any ASRS environment
With scalable solutions to adapt to changing business needs and growth. In particular, Fortress all-in-one ASRS interlocking solutions are highly versatile, making them suitable for both small-scale and large-scale operations while maintaining optimal performance.
Durability in demanding settings
Fortress products are engineered for longevity, with robust, heavy-duty designs that ensure performance over extended periods, reducing maintenance costs and enhancing long-term safety.
Comprehensive Interlocking Solutions for ASRS
Interlocking devices for aisle access from Fortress incorporate essential features for optimal protection and compliance, including:
- Guard locking functionality for enhanced personnel safety
- Escape release for quick exit in case personnel becomes trapped
- Integrated pushbuttons to improve user efficiency and streamline operations
- Optional features such as RFID readers to manage and control access, personnel keys to prevent unexpected start-up, and more.
Products are designed with flexibility in mind, providing options that can be tailored to the requirements of each facility.
Future-Proof your ASRS with Fortress Safety
As automation continues to redefine industries, Fortress remains committed to delivering world-class solutions for ASRS safety that prioritise personnel protection without compromising efficiency. With a dedicated team of experts, international support networks, and configurable options, Fortress facilitates seamless integration into any warehouse environment.
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Q&A
What is an Automated Storage and Retrieval System (ASRS)?
An ASRS is a type of warehouse automation that optimises space and reduces labour costs by efficiently storing and retrieving items from specific locations using automated equipment like shuttles, cranes, carousels, and vertical lifts.
Why is the ASRS market growing so rapidly?
The ASRS market is experiencing rapid growth due to the increasing demand for fast, precise, and efficient fulfillment. This trend is further driven by the rising adoption of industrial automation aimed at improving productivity and quality, enhancing safety, reducing errors, and adding flexibility to manufacturing processes.
How does ASRS help with warehouse space and labour issues?
ASRS systems enable vertical storage to maximise limited space and automate tasks to reduce reliance on manual labour, improving efficiency and operational resilience.
What are the key benefits of using ASRS?
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Faster and more accurate order fulfilment
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Better use of vertical space
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Reduced staffing pressures
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Lower downtime and improved system resilience
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Scalable and sustainable operations
What safety hazards are associated with ASRS?
ASRS include many moving parts and automated components that pose hazards to personnel, especially during aisle access or maintenance activities.
How does Fortress enhance ASRS safety?
Fortress offers interlocking solutions that:
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Conform to global safety standards (e.g., EN 528)
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Include guard locking and escape release functions
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Integrate user-friendly controls like pushbuttons and RFID
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Minimise downtime via network-enabled integration (PROFINET, EtherNet/IP, EtherCAT)
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Are scalable and durable for various ASRS setups
What makes Fortress Safety interlocks ideal for ASRS environments?
Fortress solutions are:
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Easy to install and configure
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Designed for high durability in demanding settings
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Capable of integrating into complex systems
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Adaptable to changing business needs
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Supported by over 40 years of safety expertise
What standards do Fortress interlocking systems comply with?
Some Fortress solutions are designed to conform with EN 528, a European standard that includes a range of requirements for ASRS, including key dependency and mode selection. There are also alternatives for U.S. standards as well as other global regions.
What features are included in Fortress’ ASRS safety products?
Key features include:
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Guard locking and escape release
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Integrated pushbuttons
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Optional RFID readers and personnel keys to prevent unexpected start-up
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Configurable safety solutions to meet the specific requirements of any application.
How can Fortress future-proof my ASRS?
Fortress offers scalable, configurable, and globally supported interlocking solutions that prioritise safety, efficiency, and seamless integration into any ASRS environment.
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