1. Home
  2. Projects
  3. Automated loading machine solution for Tata Steel in United Kingdom

Automated loading machine solution for Tata Steel in United Kingdom

About the Project

Tata Steel Europe is a major player in the global steel industry, providing a wide range of high-quality steel products for the construction, automotive, and infrastructure sectors. With operations in the UK and the Netherlands, Tata Steel serves demanding markets worldwide. As one of the largest steel producers in Europe, the company is committed to operational efficiency, sustainability, and innovation.

Tata Steel UK
Client: Tata steel UK
Industry: Metalworking
Country: United Kingdom 🇬🇧
Year: 2021

The Problem

Before integrating SmartTEH’s Container Loading System, Tata Steel UK faced significant challenges related to the containerization of their steel products. Their reliance on third-party companies for container loading made operations prohibitively expensive, particularly for international projects. This dependency not only affected their competitive pricing but also led to operational inefficiencies, including delays, product damage, and missing shipments.

Previously, Tata Steel utilized another loading system on-site, but this approach failed to meet the company’s expectations regarding speed and practicality. These issues became more critical when the company began tendering for large-scale projects, such as a significant African construction project that required over 160 containers of material. The cost of offsite containerization was so high that it threatened the competitiveness of their bids.

The Solution

Faced with escalating containerization costs and the need for greater control over their logistics, Tata Steel decided to bring the process in-house by adopting SmartTEH’s automated Container Loading System. This advanced system provided a moving floor solution that optimized the process of loading cargo into shipping containers directly at their facility.

3D icon of Container Loading System

Automatic container loading system

Container loading equipment known as a container loading system with a moving floor allows container loading time to be reduced from 30 minutes to 5 min.
Solution
Learn more

SmartTEH’s system offered key advantages such as faster loading times, better control over product quality, and reduced product damage during transport. The automated system eliminated the need for manual handling and significantly reduced reliance on external providers, improving both the cost and efficiency of the operation. The investment paid off quickly, with Tata Steel reporting a full return on investment within just 18 months

The result

Since implementing SmartTEH’s solution, Tata Steel has experienced substantial improvements in several critical areas:

  1. The automated system has vastly improved the speed at which containers are loaded, allowing Tata Steel to handle larger volumes with greater efficiency. This has been particularly important for time-sensitive projects where meeting deadlines is crucial.
  2. By automating the containerization process, Tata Steel gained more control over the quality of its products. The system’s precision loading reduced the risk of damage and minimized instances of missing products, leading to fewer customer complaints and a smoother overall operation.
  3. The ability to containerize in-house significantly lowered Tata Steel’s operational costs. By cutting out third-party service providers and reducing labor-intensive manual processes, the company became more competitive in its pricing and gained a significant edge over rivals in international tenders.


Client thoughts

Equipment was installed during Covid, level of service from supplier during the period to install was second to none, as the machine had to be installed by our own engineering team due to travel restrictions. Feedback from our team is that the equipment is well built and requires minimal maintenance. Operation of machine is consistent, with no faults raised in the three years we've owned it.
Andy Owen
Supply Chain Manager

Frequently asked questions about the system

Can the Container Loading System handle unloading?
Yes, the container loading system can unload when the cargo is properly prepared. Using additional equipment—a metal plate—the system is equipped for both loading and unloading functions. This metal plate enhances the system’s versatility and efficiency in cargo handling. Watch this video for a demonstration: https://youtu.be/J6l4Q7pZgVo?si=UNRs7kHw5OHb8s2v
Can you deliver Container Loading System to any country?
Yes, we can deliver the CLS to any country. Our equipment is designed for easy transportation, allowing for flexible shipping options. It can be transported by road using standard truck trailers or shipped internationally via sea freight in containers.
How to transport Container Loading System?
CLS fits in 1 standard truck trailer or a 40-foot HC container.
Is there a spare parts list?
Yes, we do provide a comprehensive spare parts list along with the user manual for our equipment. However, we have a thoughtful approach to spare parts:
- We don't provide upfront costs for spare parts, as needs can vary.
- We don't recommend purchasing spare parts in advance, as you may not need them.
- Our equipment uses components from world-renowned brands, ensuring that spare parts are readily available from local dealers in your country if needed.
How is the equipment installed?
The installation takes two to three working days - during this time, the equipment is set up, employees are trained, and tests are conducted.
What are the most popular additional options?
Our customers often enhance their Container Loading System (CLS) with these popular additional options:
- An integrated weighing system enables precise weight measurement during the loading process, ensuring accuracy and compliance.
- Remote control improves operational flexibility and enhances safety during handling.
- A sandwich plate for 20-foot containers simplifies and accelerates the loading of smaller container sizes.
- Towing tail with wheels increases mobility, allowing for quick and easy positioning of the system.
- 45-foot container loading capability expands the system’s versatility, handling larger containers with ease.

Revolutionize your loading process with

automated loading systems

Connect with our experts to learn how you can supercharge your logistics.

Tell a friend

Share with someone who might be interested.

Ready to upgrade?
Request your custom solution
Experience tailored industrial solutions designed to elevate your operations.
Talk with us to discuss your unique needs and discover how we can upgrade your industrial solutions with a personalized approach.
Stay updated. Subscribe.

Receive our latest updates and your new opportunities to grow. You can unsubscribe at any time.

We are SmartTEH - an industrial equipment engineering and production company, launched in 2016

Norway grants
Project number:
No. NAG1-IES-2021/6

View full details