- More stable and 25% lighter than traditional pallets
- Can be cleaned and reused quickly
- Big data in supply chain due to transponder
A completely new pallet concept is set to change the logistics market. The pallets from Dutch start-up company Ahrma combine a new kind of “Internet of Things” (IoT) technology with special functionalities. And a PU coating provides the necessary protection.
More stable and 25% lighter than traditional pallets
The extremely robust hybrid pallets are made from medium density fiberboard (MDF) and plastic. A formulation of BASF’s Elastocoat C spray system was further developed for this purpose. The result is that the PU coating improves the resistance and durability of these pallets and it can now be sprayed on directly in continuous, automated spraying units. There is no need for any further primer coat. The MDF pallets sealed with this coating are not just more stable and around 25% lighter than traditional pallets, but also feature an innovative, comprehensive track and trace system. The life span of the pallets is extended considerably to up to 10 years and individual components of the pallets can be dismantled and replaced.
The smart pallets offer a series of benefits for customers: Costs as a result of unused, lost or stolen pallets are reduced.
Pallets can be cleaned and reused quickly
In addition, the pallets can be cleaned and thus reused quickly. This is a feature that is particularly important especially for customers in the food, beverages and pharmaceutical sectors. The coating is also resistant to chemicals, flexible, crack bridging and wear-resistant. It is resistant to low temperatures, quickly hardens following application, and offers a non-slip surface which makes the load more secure.
Big data in supply chain due to transponder
Using a transponder that is integrated in the pallets and the software from Ahrma, Supply Chain Big Data (SCBD system), the company is able to record not just the position and movement of the pallets, but also their ambient temperature and load state and any possible impact or dropping of the pallets. This offers several advantages: It means that unused pallets can be located and optimum use can be ensured. Costs as a result of unused, lost or stolen pallets are reduced.
