Jarrold's ALB Reflection

Hi again! This post will be about the trip to the Army Logistics Base(ALB).

At first thought, this trip was an ideal one to provide us with first hand experience of real life logistics operations.

First on the agenda was the talk delivered by one of the senior staff there. We understood SAF's efforts to integrate the supply chain, history of ALB, and also the advancements in warehousing and logistics processes that ALB possess.

Next, ALB had a through-flow layout, and having the loading and unloading bay at opposite sides made me realise how ALB emphasised on security and movement, with SKU goods ready for picking close to the loading bay. Quick and efficient material handling and movement was essential. The height of the ALB building was about 20metres/18 racks high. ALB is a centralised warehouse, occupying about the size of 45 football fields, of which some can be saved for future development.

Storage systems used were:

• mobile racking system
• vertical carousel system(VCS)
• pallet automated storage and retrieval system(Pallet ASRS)
• Bin ASRS

The vertical carousel system which was about 10metres was located on the Medical Warehouse Floor and stored general medical supplies. This detailed system which looks like a consume chamber provides enhanced security as products are visible only upon reaching the order picker.

Containing 74 layers, a light scanner has an advantage of a full proof system. What impressed was how tactful ALB was in handling and maintaining its products. A humidity control function and efficient maintenance by technicians made this system all the more value-adding.

The powered mobile racking and shelving system had a censor, acting as a safety alarm. ALB installed such a safety device, showing they treat employee safety as utmost importance. If a person is close between the shelves, the alarm will alert other employees to bring help. Material handling equipments (MHE) used was the automated guided vehicle(AGV) at the inbound area and the Pallet ASRS at the outbound area. The AGV was useful in fast moving warehouses and what impressed was observing the wonders of a fully automated system.

The final part of our trip was knowing how the SAF had changed in its goals. What had me interested, was the change in trend of armymen equipment, and advancements in uniform technology that enhances military performances.

Finally, special thanks to the staffs' effort in providing us with a deeper insight into logistics operations and the impact of changes in our industry nowadays.