Ulti Group https://ultigroup.co.nz/ Mon, 24 Jul 2023 06:09:22 +0000 en-NZ hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.2.2 https://ultigroup.co.nz/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/cropped-UltiGroup_Logo_U_Solid_col_RGB.png Ulti Group https://ultigroup.co.nz/ 32 32 State-Of-The-Art Systems For Countdown’s New Auckland Distribution Facility https://ultigroup.co.nz/blog/state-of-the-art-systems-for-countdowns-new-auckland-dc/ https://ultigroup.co.nz/blog/state-of-the-art-systems-for-countdowns-new-auckland-dc/#respond Sun, 23 Jul 2023 22:02:15 +0000 https://ultigroup.co.nz/?p=4779 The post State-Of-The-Art Systems For Countdown’s New Auckland Distribution Facility appeared first on Ulti Group.

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The Challenge

Countdown needed a state-of-the-art facility to centralise their fresh product operations for the North Island and keep their fresh products cool and safe.

The Solution

Ulti Group designed and installed 21 fully interlocked dock loading systems to ensure their products are kept fresh and cool from storage through to transport, as well as a range of other specialist doors systems including Ulti Rolls, Ulti Spirals, and more, all with additional lighting systems for enhanced safety.

The Result

The new distribution centre was completed in October 2022, achieving a Green Star 4 rating for design and providing Countdown the capacity to distribute 350,000 crates of fresh produce a week to its 150 North Island stores.

With over 180 stores across the country, Countdown is one of New Zealand’s largest supermarket brands. In 2022, they opened a new, state-of-the-art temperature-controlled fresh produce distribution centre in Wiri, Auckland, to centralise their fresh product operations in the region. Built to handle 350,000 crates of fresh produce at one time and operate 24/7, it’s a high-tech facility that
plays an integral role in the full cool chain required to get fresh produce from farm to store in prime condition.

The building is also linked to the adjacent Hilton Foods warehouse to the West via an air bridge. An automated conveyor within the air bridge delivers packaged meat products to the distribution centre, allowing trucks to be loaded with both veggies, fruit and meat at the same time – reducing carbon emissions and providing efficiencies of scale.

Ulti Group worked closely with Countdown and its contractors to design and install specialist door and dock loading systems that would efficiently maintain temperatures across the facility and provide high levels of safety and energy savings to meet Countdown’s requirements. The new facility included 21 fully interlocked dock loading systems, including sectional dock doors, vertical dock levellers, inflatable dock seals, global wheel locks, sliding dock bumpers, and combined dock commander operation panels, enabling Countdown to quickly and efficiently distribute their fresh produce. In addition, we installed 40 specialist doors including Ulti Rolls, Ulti Spirals and Roller Shutter Doors throughout the site, all with virtual vision light systems for enhanced safety. Also included were 42 hinged chiller doors and an acoustic sliding door.

The new distribution centre was completed in October 2022 and achieved a Green Star 4 rating for design. Countdown was very pleased with the outcome of the project and the quality and safety features of Ulti Group’s products and services.


“Ulti Group was great to work with. I’ve worked at a lot of big manufacturing plants in the past and I’d 100% use them again for future projects.”
–   James Robson | Countdown – Primary Connect


Ulti Group is a trusted partner to Countdown providing full-service backup to all their products, long-term warranties, and peace of mind to know that they are in safe hands. We are proud to partner with cutting-edge companies in New Zealand, such as Countdown to complement efficient and effective operations with innovative door and dock loading systems.

If you want to learn more about how Ulti Group can help your business achieve your goals, reach out to us on 0800 807 753 for a free consultation.

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Employee Spotlight – Grant Keys, the man Behind the Curtains at Ulti Group https://ultigroup.co.nz/blog/grant-keys-curtain-manufacturing/ https://ultigroup.co.nz/blog/grant-keys-curtain-manufacturing/#respond Mon, 03 Jul 2023 20:52:49 +0000 https://ultigroup.co.nz/?p=4788 The post Employee Spotlight – Grant Keys, the man Behind the Curtains at Ulti Group appeared first on Ulti Group.

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Ulti Group is known for its innovative and high-quality products, here’s a look behind the door. In this video, we introduce you to Grant Keys, one of key members of our NZ manufacturing and distribution team.

Grant explains how Ulti Group has invested in the best tools and processes to ensure a seamless production of curtains, from cutting the fabric to installing the doors. He also reveals his pride and satisfaction in seeing the final product being used by customers, and how he feels part of a team that delivers excellence every day.

Watch the video to learn more about Grant and his role at Ulti Group and see why he loves working for a company that making a difference with its innovative products.

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Fighting Food Waste & Hunger With Kiwi Harvest https://ultigroup.co.nz/blog/fighting-food-waste-hunger-with-kiwi-harvest/ https://ultigroup.co.nz/blog/fighting-food-waste-hunger-with-kiwi-harvest/#respond Thu, 29 Jun 2023 00:26:59 +0000 https://ultigroup.co.nz/?p=4768 The post Fighting Food Waste & Hunger With Kiwi Harvest appeared first on Ulti Group.

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Food waste is a huge problem in New Zealand and around the world. According to the Ministry for the Environment, New Zealanders throw away about 157,389 tonnes of food every year, which is enough to feed the population of Dunedin for nearly three years! Meanwhile, many people struggle to access enough nutritious food for themselves and their families.

That’s why here at Ulti Group, we decided to partner with Kiwi Harvest, a national food rescue organisation that collects surplus food from supermarkets, wholesalers, farmers, and other sources, and distributes it to over 250 charities and community groups across the country. Kiwi Harvest has recently celebrated their 11th birthday, and the incredible milestone of collecting 10 million kilograms of rescued food – that’s equivalent to over 28.5 million meals!

To show our support, Ulti Group donated an Ulti EX5 high speed door to Kiwi Harvest’s largest branch in Highbrook, Auckland. The Ulti EX5 door is designed to seal the warehouse from air leakage, pests, and birds, and to allow fast and safe movement of forklifts and staff. It also has large vision panels that let in natural light and create a pleasant working environment. We will also be providing regular maintenance, free of charge, to ensure their operations are never impeded.

The door helps Kiwi Harvest maintain the quality and safety of the food they rescue, and reduce their energy costs and carbon footprint. It also frees up resources that can be used to deliver more food to the people who need it most. As Angela Calver, the CEO of Kiwi Harvest, says: “It’s upwards of $30,000 for a rapid door. $30,000 means that we can deliver an additional 90,000 meals to the communities that we serve.”

Ulti Group is proud to support Kiwi Harvest’s mission of reducing food waste and feeding hungry Kiwis. We’re about protecting what matters, and we are very proud to partner with Kiwi Harvest. to help them continue rescuing food, providing to people in need and removing wastage from our society. We believe that by prioritising CSR in our business strategy, we can help create a more sustainable and prosperous future for all, and we invite you to join us in our mission to protect what matters most.

Thank you for choosing Ulti Group as your trusted partner!

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Raising the Bar in Rapid Door Manufacturing in NZ https://ultigroup.co.nz/blog/raising-the-bar-in-rapid-door-manufacturing-in-nz/ https://ultigroup.co.nz/blog/raising-the-bar-in-rapid-door-manufacturing-in-nz/#respond Wed, 28 Jun 2023 23:59:49 +0000 https://ultigroup.co.nz/?p=4769 The post Raising the Bar in Rapid Door Manufacturing in NZ appeared first on Ulti Group.

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If you’re looking for a world-class rapid door provider that can deliver on quality, innovation, and speed, look no further than Ulti Group. We have invested significantly into our local NZ manufacturing over the past 5 years ensuring that every door that leaves our plant meets the highest standards of excellence – and our clients love it, we’ve seen significant growth.

Increased Curtain Manufacturing Capacity – What does that mean for you?

We are passionate about creating innovative products that stay ahead of the curve, and we are always looking for ways to enhance our performance and customer satisfaction. That’s why we have increased our capacity in the curtain manufacturing space, allowing us to produce more doors in less time, all while improving product quality.

• It means that you can even shorter lead times on our products made in NZ
• It means custom-made rapid doors produced faster than ever before.
• It means that you can save time and money on your projects.
• It means that you can enjoy the benefits of our high-quality products without any delays or hassles.
• It means you never have to worry about delays and defects from overseas shipping for these products.

Our manufacturing lead, Justin Baldwin, has been instrumental in bringing this vision to life, travelling overseas to learn from the best in the industry and bringing back the best practices, techniques, and insights from the experts and implementing them in our own NZ factory. He says that this has been a game changer for our clients, who are really benefitting from the latest technology and best practices in rapid door production.

Grant Keys – The Man Behind the Curtains at Ulti Group

Ulti Group is known for its innovative and high-quality products, here’s a look behind the door to learn more about Grant and his role at Ulti Group and see why he loves working for a company that is making a difference with its innovative products.

 

 

Why Local? Why NZ Made?

One of the reasons we are proud to manufacture our rapid doors locally is that we believe in the benefits of buying local. Buying local is not only good for our business, but also for our community, our environment, and our country as a whole. When you buy local, you support New Zealand’s economy and create jobs for kiwis. You also reduce your environmental impact by choosing products that have less transportation and packaging. You also get to enjoy and higher quality product that’s made with care and passion. Buying local is a way of showing your love for New Zealand and its people.

These products are available on short lead times, thanks to our local production and service centres located throughout New Zealand.

Rapid Doors: Ulti Roll Door, Ulti Fold Door, Ulti Spiral Door
Freezer and Coolroom Doors: Ulti Frigo 2, Ulti Flex, PVC Strip Curtains
Loading Systems: Rollout Container Shelter

Ulti Group protects what matters for you from right here in NZ. We are the leading and most trusted rapid door provider in NZ, and we are committed to supporting kiwi manufacturing and local businesses. When you choose Ulti Group, you choose NZ quality, innovation, and speed.

Contact us today to find out how we can help you with your rapid door needs.

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What are Industrial Curtain Walls, and How Can They Help You? https://ultigroup.co.nz/blog/what-is-an-industrial-curtain-wall/ https://ultigroup.co.nz/blog/what-is-an-industrial-curtain-wall/#respond Mon, 26 Jun 2023 15:02:02 +0000 https://ultigroup.co.nz/2018/08/what-is-an-industrial-curtain-wall/ The post What are Industrial Curtain Walls, and How Can They Help You? appeared first on Ulti Group.

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Industrial curtain walls are a type of flexible barrier that can be used to divide and enclose spaces in various industries. They are made of durable and fire-resistant materials that can withstand harsh environments and provide insulation, noise reduction, and temperature control.

Unlike permanent walls, industrial curtain walls can be easily installed, moved, or removed according to your changing needs. They can also be customized to fit any size, shape, or layout of your space. Whether you need to create separate work zones, protect your products from dust and contaminants, or improve your energy efficiency, industrial curtain walls can offer a cost-effective and versatile solution.

Where can Industrial Curtain Walls be used?

Industrial Curtain Walls can be used in place of a conventional wall in virtually any non-loadbearing application.

Industrial curtain walls come in various sizes, shapes, styles, and features that can suit different needs and preferences, which means that they can be used in a large number of situations. Some of the most common uses include:

                          • Temperature separation of up to 22 degrees
                          • Humidity control
                          • Heat Containment
                          • Dust Containment
                          • Odour and fume containment
                          • Noise attenuation and control
                          • Wash Down areas
                          • Product separation in store rooms
                          • Loading dock enclosures
                          • Machine and workshop separation
                          • Other special and unique applications
What are Industrial Curtain Walls made from?

The fabrics used to form the actual walls differ in materials and properties, allowing them to be precisely matched to the application. Acoustic, food grade, washdown, Insulated and non-insulated systems are available. However, the operating environment and site-specific factors dictate the type of fabric wall and the configuration best suited for a given situation.

How are Industrial Curtain Walls attached to a building?

Every curtain wall is custom-built for each project and designed by our professional technicians. This allows the curtains to be configured in virtually any size, shape or dimension – making them rich in potential applications.

Stationary versions can be affixed to existing building structures like ceiling joists, or custom metal framework. Sliding versions operate on a track and trolley system.

Our curtain walls have sweeps at the bottom of the panels, which seal against the floor and match any voids or elevation changes in the floor slab. In the event the curtain needs to be anchored to the floor, steel angles can be positioned on the floor and the curtain secured to the steel angle. We don’t recommend attaching Industrial Curtain Walls to the floor unless there is a heavy negative or positive pressure situation or if it is required for certification.

Can you add doors to Industrial Curtain Walls?

Yes, we can incorporate any type of door (PVC strip doors, high-speed doors, sectional/rolling steel doors, steel man-doors, etc.) with the addition of steel framing into the fabric.

How much do Industrial Curtain Walls cost?

Quick to repair and maintain, Industrial Curtain Walls can be easily reconfigured, relocated or removed as a facilities needs change. In most applications Industrial Curtain Walls are considered as a temporary wall, meaning that no permitting or building consents are required. This together with the quick and easy installation, means a HUGE cost saving over traditional permanent walls. They can also mostly be installed without a factory shutdown, or any disassembly or removal of racking, allowing operations as normal during installation. This means measurable and immediate time and cost savings over traditional methods.

The price per square meter for the Ulti Industrial Curtain Walls vary due to the many different types of curtain we can offer. It’s best to get in touch with us to ensure that we evaluate your needs and get the right sort of fabric – acoustic, food grade, wash down, thermal – for your facility. The simplicity of the product saves money as installation is done through Ulti and a sub-contractor is not required. This results in roughly 40-60% savings over traditional construction costs on sizeable in-built wall systems, allowing you to optimise your facility for a fraction of the price.

Benefits of Industrial Curtain Walls:
  1. CUSTOM DESIGNED – This means that any protrusion or quirk can be accommodated for any application with minimal use of floor space. Its flexible design gives you the ability to easily reconfigure, relocate, or remove them based on your changing needs whereas traditional rigid walls lock you into a layout and make future changes timely and costly.
  2. MAXIMISES YOUR SPACE – An industrial curtain wall can diversify a large facility to create an almost instant segregation of diverse activity areas like separating the retail side of a store from the racking where stocks are kept, defining clean rooms from open dock areas, isolating noisy work areas inside a large room, enclosing cold or warm areas in your workshops and many more!
  3. FAST, CLEAN INSTALLATION – The industrial curtain wall is constructed in an adaptable, modular design that allows you to partition spaces quickly and affordably. Installation is fast, clean and generates minimal disruption and contamination in your facility.
  4. DESIGNED FOR PERFECT FIT – Industrial curtain walls can be used for specific applications such as temperature separation, humidity or heat control, noise reduction, dust and fume containment, wash-down situations, or for other special applications. They can be non-insulated or insulated for temperature and noise control. The wall is tightly fitted and attached to the floor and ceiling providing a clean look. It can also include any custom printing of photos, designs and logos on the curtain.
  5. SHORTCUTS THE PAINFUL CONSENT PROCESS – Another benefit to you is that there is no requirement to get a building permit, the walls aren’t permanent and can be reconfigured based on your changing needs and of course, this means the cost of construction does not even compare.

Industrial Curtain Walls are better walls because they are flexible, affordable, and simple.

Enquire Now > Enquire Now >

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The Benefits Of Preventative Maintenance https://ultigroup.co.nz/blog/the-benefits-of-preventative-maintenance/ https://ultigroup.co.nz/blog/the-benefits-of-preventative-maintenance/#respond Sun, 18 Jun 2023 22:56:26 +0000 https://ultigroup.co.nz/?p=4713 The post The Benefits Of Preventative Maintenance appeared first on Ulti Group.

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You service your car regularly, so why not service your doors regularly? Just like a car, your Ulti doors need to be regularly maintained to keep them running smoothly and prevent bigger issues down the road.

Even if your doors display no obvious signs of damage, a Preventative Maintenance program will keep them in top working order and can catch faults before they result in an expensive mechanical failure. And just in case you need a bit more convincing, here are some of the benefits of preventative maintenance:

 
A Safer, More Productive Working Environment

Unexpected door system failures can cause significant disruption to daily operations, but regular maintenance helps identify and address potential issues early. By discovering issues, such as malfunctioning sensors or faulty door mechanisms that could result in safety hazards or unnecessary downtime, you have the chance to remedy the problem before it impacts your people or your operations.

Extending The Lifespan Of Your Doors

Regular inspections and minor adjustments can significantly extend the lifespan of your doors, delaying the need for larger repairs or full replacements.

Long-Term Cost Efficiency

By dealing with issues before they escalate into major problems, you’ll minimise expensive repairs and avoid costly emergency replacement. This is especially important in cold storage areas or highly secure facilities and any downtime without a sufficient door in place can have devastating consequences for the product held inside. A proactive facility management strategy helps to optimise the performance and longevity of your door systems, for overall cost savings and a higher return on investment.

Increased Energy Efficiency

Well-maintained door systems can have a big impact on your energy efficiency. Regular maintenance is more likely to identify cracks in seals or damage that may be causing air leaks, both of which can cause spikes in your power bills.

Reliable Security

Poorly maintained doors may not close or lock properly, presenting potential security risks, but with regular preventative maintenance, you’ll be able to address any issues early. This is especially important to high-security facilities and personnel access doors.

Overall, preventative maintenance is worth every penny. It keeps your facilities running smoothly and efficiently and minimises the possibility of bigger issues like breakdowns, security breaches, or health and safety incidents.

We recommend getting your door serviced by an experienced technician at least every 12 months, if not more frequently. And don’t forget, if proper maintenance and servicing are not carried out regularly, your warranty may be void. Your facility’s doors perform an important role every day in keeping your people, your products, and your profits safe so keeping them operating at their best should be a high priority.

Talk to our team of experts today and see how we can help you make a preventative maintenance plan that works for you.

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How Healthy Are Your Doors? https://ultigroup.co.nz/blog/how-healthy-are-your-doors/ https://ultigroup.co.nz/blog/how-healthy-are-your-doors/#respond Sun, 18 Jun 2023 22:48:35 +0000 https://ultigroup.co.nz/?p=4706 The post How Healthy Are Your Doors? appeared first on Ulti Group.

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Being able to identify an ‘unhealthy’ door is a big part of keeping your operations moving. The last thing you want is to be caught unaware with a damaged or malfunctioning door that results in costly emergency repairs. Understanding what to look for can save you time and money as you’ll be more aware of when a door may need repairs or replacing and can plan accordingly.

Enquire Now >

Let’s take a look at the 5 things that can impact your doors operations and what to look for in each area to make sure things are healthy and running smoothly.

1: The Curtains and Seals

Be sure to take a close look at the curtain and surrounding vermin seal for any cracks, holes or tears. Make sure the curtain is hanging straight and not popping out from the retainers along the sides. If it’s a freezer door, the curtain should be heavy and stiff.

2: The Door’s Operation

Run the door up and down two to three times to check if it’s running smoothly. Keep an eye out for any sticky spots and make sure it always stops in the right place at both the top and the bottom. This is also a good time to listen for any unusual noises when it’s in operation.

3: The Tracks and Guides

Check along the tracks and guides and their covers for any sections that may be twisted or bent. Make sure they’re parallel and properly aligned with the floor and not impeding the door’s movements in any way.

4: The Motor and Head Unit

Take a look for any visible wear and tear and make sure the door is still firmly anchored to the wall. Check for any electrical smells or strange noises when the door is running or immediately after.

5: The Electrical Components

Examine the electrical connections and components for any sign of damage, making sure the control box is in good condition and all activations are working properly. It’s also a great time to test the emergency stop to make sure it’s functioning well.

Running through these 5 things regularly will keep you in the know about your doors’ health and make sure you’re aware of any issues that might come up before they’re a problem.
For a full door health audit or advice on your door options, get in touch with our experts.

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4 Biggest Trends in the Cold Storage Industry https://ultigroup.co.nz/blog/4-biggest-trends-in-the-cold-storage-industry/ https://ultigroup.co.nz/blog/4-biggest-trends-in-the-cold-storage-industry/#respond Sun, 04 Jun 2023 02:06:16 +0000 https://ultigroup.co.nz/2019/12/4-biggest-trends-in-the-cold-storage-industry/ The post 4 Biggest Trends in the Cold Storage Industry appeared first on Ulti Group.

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Cold storage and refrigerated warehouses are an integral part of supply chains with temperature control initiatives, and they are only getting bigger – literally – with cold storage space expanding at roughly 4% annually since 2013.

This growth in cold storage warehousing has been driven by a variety of factors, including online shopping, delivery time expectations, regulatory changes and new production technologies. In this sea of change, however, there are four trending paradigm shifts that facility managers should consider when making safety and efficiency upgrades to their cold room facility operations.

Automation/Robotics

Throughput speed is essential in cold storage facilities, particularly those fulfilling online orders. To maximise efficiency, automated guided vehicles (AGVs), automated storage/retrieval systems (AS/RS) and other automated/robotic technologies are quickly becoming the norm. The automation trend can even be seen in loading dock equipment, such as smart controls and light communications systems like the Rite-Vu Hazard Recognition System. Utilizing motion sensors, LED lights, audible/visual alarms, and interlocking controls, to safeguard and protect workers on foot both inside and outside the loading dock in addition to protecting forklift operators inside trailers. Nothing matters more than life and limb!

Energy Efficiency Initiatives

Energy efficiency and cold chain integrity are key considerations for today’s cold storage industry. At the loading dock, the drive-through dock design is considered the gold standard for achieving both. The system’s key component is a vertical storing leveler and recessed pit, which allows trailers to completely back-up to the dock before breaking the seal and opening their doors into the facility. This design prevents energy loss, as well as potential cargo tampering or exposure to outside elements.

Updating your cooler and freezer doors can also contribute to energy efficiency. High-speed doors like the FasTrax Rapid Door, minimize air exchange between spaces, as equipment and material pass through, reducing energy loss. The Frastrax also automatically snaps back into its tracks when impacted by forklifts, saving costly repairs.

Taller Warehouses

To combat high operating costs and the need for quick delivery, many industrial cold storage facilities are being built in expensive, urban areas – forcing companies to “go vertical” with their workspace. This trend makes fall protection equipment a top safety priority. Barriers are a common choice for elevated workspaces; since they create a controlled access area in which the inner gate and outer gate cannot be opened at the same time.

Air Door Systems

Air door systems are an innovative solution that creates an invisible barrier of high-speed air across an opening, preventing thermal loss and maintaining hygiene by blocking outside air from entering while allowing vehicles and workers to pass through without obstruction. As they prevent heat transfer and moisture accumulation, they therefore also save energy by reducing refrigeration costs and eliminating ice formation on the floor or walls, all without affecting visibility or accessibility. The high-speed air stream creates enough pressure difference between inside and outside zones to prevent mixing of air, providing optimal sealing even when the door is in use. Vehicles can pass through at normal speed without stopping, accelerating or braking. Air doors are the ultimate option for cold storage applications in high-use doorways that need unobstructed access, offering superior performance, efficiency, hygiene and safety compared to other options, and they pay for themselves with their energy savings.

Keeping Pace with the Market

The cold storage industry is constantly evolving and adapting to the changing needs and expectations of customers, regulators, and competitors. To stay ahead of the curve, you need to keep up-to-date on the best practices, new technologies, and latest trends in the industry.

Fastrax FR

 

 

At Ulti Group, we have the solutions you can trust to optimize your cold storage facility operations. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you improve your safety and efficiency in your cold storage warehouse.

Enquire Now >

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How do I Choose the Right Industrial Door? https://ultigroup.co.nz/blog/how-do-i-choose-the-right-industrial-door/ https://ultigroup.co.nz/blog/how-do-i-choose-the-right-industrial-door/#respond Sat, 03 Jun 2023 02:37:10 +0000 https://ultigroup.co.nz/2018/10/how-do-i-choose-the-right-industrial-door/ The post How do I Choose the Right Industrial Door? appeared first on Ulti Group.

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Today, selecting the right industrial door for your facility is more complicated than ever. There are a variety of door styles, types and configurations on the market, so it’s easy to understand why choosing the best industrial door is a difficult decision.

It’s also a critical decision to make, as a misapplied door can cause serious problems with environmental control, efficiency, durability and safety, while a properly applied door can: improve safety, increase productivity, save energy, minimise maintenance and repair costs, enhance plant productivity, and provide the best overall return on investment.

There are generally six factors to consider, which will help you determine the best total door solution for your facility:

1. What is the Purpose of the Door?

Some of the main purposes of industrial doors are to provide a barrier between different environments and to regulate the temperature, sound attenuation, humidity control and contamination control of the indoor spaces. Industrial doors also help to reduce traffic speed and improve safety and efficiency in the workplace.

2. Determine the Importance of Environmental Control.

The most common reason for purchasing an industrial door is to separate different environments. There are several factors which can affect environmental control. These include environmental separation, sealing, speed of operation, security and quality control. Do you need to prevent air transfer between different environments? Do you need to keep pests out? By examining these factors and their importance to you, you will be one step closer to choosing the door that will provide the best environmental control for your application.

3. Examine how Efficiency can be Improved.

Proper door selection can improve the efficiency of a facility. For example, a fast passage time allows equipment to move quickly through the opening, increasing productivity. Also, optimizing the traffic flow through a facility will improve efficiency, and will increase the productivity of your employees and machinery. A closer look at the issues affecting efficiency will further help you make the right door decision.

4. Choose a Door Designed for Durability.

The durability of a door can be determined by the following criteria: performance, impactability, maintenance needs and service support. Consider how much of a beating your doors will likely take on a regular basis and then choose a door which is designed to meet your durability requirements whether that be impact-resistant, heavy-duty, capable of high cycle or something else.

5. Make the Safest Choice Possible.

Because safety is important at every facility, factors must be considered which can affect safety. For example, the type and flow of traffic at the opening can contribute to safety concerns. Also, consider visibility needs at the opening. A high-traffic opening will require more visibility than an opening with minimal traffic and this can be catered for by choosing a door that allows vision panels. Finally, look for the potential for accidents to occur and choose a door which will help prevent those accidents or minimise the damage/harm from one.

6. Activation of Power Doors is as Important as the Door Itself.

Activation is often taken for granted indoor selection, however properly activated doors can provide many benefits. Use activation to your advantage to improve safety, increase environmental separation, customize door operation, improve productivity, eliminate false cycles, minimize door impacts, and lower maintenance and downtime. To determine the best activation for your application, look at the traffic, equipment going through and around the opening, and the physical characteristics of the opening.

 Other factors to consider when choosing the right industrial door:

Traffic
  • Type of traffic
  • Width and height of the loads
  • Number of cycles
  • Traffic patterns
Jamb Conditions
  • Width of jamb
  • Construction of jamb, steel or wood
  • Can a correct jamb be installed
  • Should mounting brackets be used
Specific Conditions
  • Wash Down
  • Pressure
  • Floor incline or decline
  • Interior or exterior location
  • Existing transom
  • Existing overhead door or fire door
  • Oversized opening for transom or dutch door design

Ultimately, it’s the combination of all of these factors that will determine the best door for your individual applications.

The door manufacturer you choose should provide a total solution, not just hardware. You should expect innovative products with state-of-the-art features. But, you’re not only choosing an industrial door, but you’re also choosing a partner. Make sure you select a manufacturer and local dealer who will stand behind the equipment and provide complete service and support. Ask about a company’s track record with existing customers. Ask for a product demonstration and visit a field site where the equipment has been installed for some time. Check out the availability of service specialists. Ask about guaranteed life expectancy of the door and make sure you get written warranties.

Having been in the business now for over 25 years, we have watched the industry needs change and have the expertise to recommend the best solution to your unique needs. Plus we’re always willing to help so feel free to reach out!

Enquire Now >

 

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How Golden Bay Fruit Achieved USDA Approval at the Loading Dock https://ultigroup.co.nz/blog/how-golden-bay-fruit-achieved-usda-approval-at-the-loading-dock/ https://ultigroup.co.nz/blog/how-golden-bay-fruit-achieved-usda-approval-at-the-loading-dock/#respond Thu, 01 Jun 2023 04:28:17 +0000 https://ultigroup.co.nz/?p=4628 The post How Golden Bay Fruit Achieved USDA Approval at the Loading Dock appeared first on Ulti Group.

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The Challenge

Golden Bay Fruit needed to meet the stringent USDA approval levels for fruit export, simplify processes and procedures, and improve safety and efficiency.

The Solution

Ulti Group designed and installed a bespoke USDA-approved loading dock system including Ulti Roll Rapid Door, Insulated Sectional Door, Vertical Storing Dock Leveller, Inflatable Dock Seal and Smart Interlocked Controls, that prevents bugs or insects from entering the container area, with added safety tech such as a reversing notification system and smart interlocked wheel chock with safe loading confirmation.

The Result

Golden Bay Fruit achieved USDA approval levels, increasing their quality and production efficiency, reduced hazards and delays, and now have access to premium export markets.

If you are looking for a success story of how technology and automation can improve the quality and efficiency, and therefore profits made from fruit export, look no further than Golden Bay Fruit in Motueka, New Zealand. Golden Bay Fruit partnered with Ulti Group, a leading provider of industrial doors and dock loading systems, to install a USDA-approved loading dock system, that met the highest standards of safety and hygiene, giving them access to premium export markets.

Golden Bay Fruit is a family-owned company that grows apples, pears and kiwifruit for export markets. They have over 750 hectares of apple orchards and 100 hectares of kiwifruit orchards in Motueka. They have invested heavily in automation and technology aiming to simplify processes and procedures wherever possible to optimize their efficiency and productivity, with the goal of providing fruit of the highest quality to their customers.

As part of their investment in world-class automation, Ulti Group was asked to design and install an exclusive USDA-approved loading dock for Golden Bay Fruit, requiring complex equipment design with careful sequencing. USDA approval levels are very stringent and hard to achieve, and they guarantee that the fruit meets the highest quality standards for export markets. The USDA loading dock system helps ensure that no bugs or insects gain access to the area of the container being loaded, which is one of the requirements of USDA approval levels. 

The loading dock system also provides several benefits for Golden Bay Fruit in terms of safety and efficiency. It eliminates the need to climb up onto the scally trailer, which is a common but dangerous practice in the industry. It also reduces hazards and delays associated with loading containers. It uses a reversing notification system that tells the truck driver where to stop, a smart interlocked wheel chock system that prevents accidental drive-off, and a safe loading confirmation for the forklift drivers inside the building.

Ulti Group is a trusted partner to Golden Bay Fruit providing full-service backup to all their products, long-term warranties, and peace of mind to know that they are in safe hands. We are proud to partner with cutting-edge companies in New Zealand, such as Golden Bay Fruit to complement efficient and effective operations with innovative door and dock loading systems.

If you want to learn more about how Ulti Group can help your business achieve your goals, reach out to us on 0800 807 753.

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Making a Difference – A Safer and More Sustainable Future https://ultigroup.co.nz/blog/making-a-difference-a-safer-and-more-sustainable-future/ https://ultigroup.co.nz/blog/making-a-difference-a-safer-and-more-sustainable-future/#respond Thu, 25 May 2023 03:46:20 +0000 https://ultigroup.co.nz/?p=4423 The post Making a Difference – A Safer and More Sustainable Future appeared first on Ulti Group.

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At Ulti Group, we are passionate about creating a safer and more sustainable future, where food insecurity is a thing of the past and good food is never wasted. That’s why we have adopted a corporate social responsibility (CSR) policy that guides our everyday decisions and actions.

CSR is a concept that refers to a company’s commitment to operating in a socially responsible and ethical manner while contributing to the social and environmental well-being of the communities in which it operates. CSR is important because it recognises that businesses have a broader responsibility than just making profits. By being socially responsible, businesses can build stronger relationships with their customers, employees, and communities, and contribute to long-term sustainability.

One of our main CSR initiatives is to work with organisations to tackle food insecurity and prevent food waste. Food insecurity is a serious issue that affects millions of people around the world. According to the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), more than 690 million people suffer from chronic hunger, while more than 2 billion people do not have regular access to safe, nutritious, and sufficient food. At the same time, food waste is a huge problem that contributes to environmental degradation and economic losses. According to the FAO, about one-third of all food produced for human consumption is lost or wasted every year.

DID YOU KNOW:

  • 1/3 of food globally is wasted
  • It’s estimated up to 40% of produce grown doesn’t leave the farm gate
  • 40% of New Zealanders experience low to moderate food security
  • Up to 305,000 Kiwi children are living in poverty
  • New Zealand industry generates more than 103,000 tonnes of food waste per year
  • It is estimated that 60% of food going to landfill is edible.

We believe that as a company that provides energy-efficient and innovative solutions to conserve food and save lives, we have a responsibility to positively impact this issue. That’s why we work with organisations such as the New Zealand Food Network (NZFN), Kiwiharvest, local Food Banks and the Rapid Relief Team (RRT) among others, to help ensure good food goes to those who need it most, instead of to a landfill. Organisations like NZFN collect surplus food from farmers, manufacturers, retailers, and other sources, and distribute it to charities and community groups that feed people in need. By supporting these organisations with our products, services, donations, and volunteering efforts, we are trying to do our bit to reduce food waste and hunger in our communities.

We are proud of the positive impact this work has on our stakeholders and society at large. We believe that by prioritising CSR in our business strategy, we can help create a more sustainable and prosperous future for all, and we invite you to join us in our mission to protect what matters most.

Thank you for choosing Ulti Group as your trusted partner!

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Is it time to replace my Industrial Door? https://ultigroup.co.nz/blog/is-it-time-to-replace-my-industrial-door/ https://ultigroup.co.nz/blog/is-it-time-to-replace-my-industrial-door/#respond Thu, 18 May 2023 23:19:18 +0000 https://ultigroup.co.nz/?p=4593 The post Is it time to replace my Industrial Door? appeared first on Ulti Group.

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Industrial doors are designed to last for years of use, so you can get a good return on your original investment. But, for one reason or another, even industrial doors need changing every now and again. So when might it be time to consider door replacement?

To help you decide, start with our handy, free Door health checklist. This will give you a good indication if your door is getting past repair stage and is due for replacement. If your door scores below 40, it’s time to consider replacement and if it’s below 20, it’s almost certainly done it’s dash.

 Overworked

It’s the same with Industrial Doors as it is with virtually everything, people included. If you overwork and underpay them (which in Industrial Door terms means not looking after them and keeping them in good condition), they’ll become less effective.

As mentioned, rapid doors are designed for years of use. But, like anything else, they do get old. And with age can come problems of overuse. Tell-tale signs include the curtain popping out of the tracks a lot by itself, if the tracks or covers are twisted or bent, the motor moving a lot when the door is operating, unusual noises or electrical smells, and more.

When you find yourself regularly facing malfunctions, and need to get your door repaired more regularly than not, you are no longer enjoying the benefits of a reliably operating door. You’ll likely have the headaches of regular callouts, which brings with it downtime, air leakage and a loss of environmental control. Once is bad enough but if it’s on a regular basis, it’s probably time to switch it out for a new one.

Expensive repairs

In some cases, if your door gets damaged you might find that the repairs costs are as much, if not more, than getting a replacement door. This can be due to a number of factors, including the following:

In the case of a roller shutter or sectional door for example, with solid slats or panels over against a rapid door with a self-repairing PVC curtain, the cost to repair or replace damaged slats, wind-locks, springs, etc due to damage from forklifts and other vehicles, can be very expensive, and that’s not including downtime or production loss while the door is inoperable.

In saying that, if your rapid door curtain is damaged, for example if forklift forks go through the door and tear it, there can be a considerable cost associated with getting this repaired, which is mainly due to the time and labour involved.

The main factor in this however, is if your door has been installed for a number of years, replacement parts may not be as readily sourced and therefore could be very expensive (plus an old door is also a sign that your door is due for replacement anyway as it is likely no longer as effective as it could or should be).

Changing needs

Finally, if usage changes, you may need to replace your automatic door.

For plant operators who want to enhance the energy efficiency of their factories, you should consider replacing old industrial doors for newer ones. New industrial door models are designed in such a way that makes them highly energy-efficient, which will enable you to save considerable money on energy costs.

Your doors need to operate optimally for their desired function. So if one of your entrances has to become an escape route, you may have to consider a whole new door to ensure high safety standards. Or if you now need to regularly wash-down the area around the door. A lot of doors aren’t designed to cope with the often harsh, wash-down chemicals used, so you’ll want to make sure your doors are suited for this or replace them if necessary.

Equally, you might find that overall door condition or the appearance of your door no longer meet the standards or image of your building and it’s time for a change to meet your aesthetic expectations.

Ultimately, while we recommend keeping your doors well serviced to ensure a long and reliable lifetime, we also think it’s important to know when replacement parts are no longer the answer and it is time to replace your door system. This is so you can minimize the risk of accident or injury at your entrances and always enjoy reliable operations and great aesthetics. Furthermore, you are set to get more for your money with a new door in the long run anyway, as it will be updated with the latest features and technology advancements.

If you’d like a consultation to see what’s best in your situation, get in touch with our friendly and knowledgeable team today! Or in the meantime, feel free to find out more about our Preventative Maintenance program.

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