Axelent and Alcomij join forces for robust and durable collision protection and mesh walls

In the Dutch town of ’s-Gravenzande, Alcomij designs, manufactures and installs innovative greenhouse structures for horticultural companies worldwide. “On our shop floor we are faced with a complex logistical operation, with intensive forklift traffic and constantly changing hall layouts,” says Rolf de Raaf, Team Leader Technical Services at Alcomij. “We asked Axelent to install the necessary collision protection and mesh walls. That cooperation went very smoothly, with a team that actively thought along with us.”

Alcomij has been a solid partner for international greenhouse construction since 1969. Based in ’s-Gravenzande, the company provides sustainable solutions that contribute to future-proof food production. This ambition naturally requires the necessary production and warehouse space, where safety for employees, visitors and machines is no superfluous luxury. “In our halls there is constantly a lot of movement,” says Rolf de Raaf. “That means you not only have to work efficiently, but also invest to the maximum in robust and reliable safety systems.”

Growing in a complex logistics environment

That combination of dynamics and safety was the starting point for the cooperation with Axelent. The Dutch greenhouse builder found in Axelent a reliable partner for crash protection and mesh walls. “We were looking for a party that could provide strong and adaptable crash protection,” says de Raaf. “Axelent stood out because their systems are modular and can be easily adapted as our situation changes.”

That modular approach is crucial in an environment where processes and flows evolve regularly. “Instead of fixed installations that are difficult to change, we opted for solutions that are easily expandable and reconfigurable,” says de Raaf. “The installation also went quickly and without much inconvenience. That's important in an operational environment where downtime costs money.”

Technical challenges cleverly solved

The implementation also presented some specific technical challenges. For example, the collision protection had to withstand intensive forklift use without damaging the warehouse floor.

“We needed a system that was strong but at the same time limited the impact on the infrastructure,” explains de Raaf. “Axelent works with anchoring with few attachment points, and that turned out to be perfect for our situation. In addition, vulnerable areas in our production and warehouse environment were additionally protected with shock-absorbing materials. This approach not only increases safety, but also limits damage to installations and goods.”

“At the same time, we enjoy the benefits of numerous accessories, such as cable trays. The supply of power and air at the machines was also a challenge. Axelent turned this into a win-win situation.

More than just protection

The added value of collision protection and mesh walls goes beyond mere physical protection. They contribute to a clear structure in the hall, visually and physically separating walking routes, work zones and storage areas.

Rolf de Raaf: “This not only increases safety, but also efficiency. Our employees know exactly where they are allowed to walk and where risk zones are present. For visitors, it also creates a controlled and orderly environment.”

An added advantage is integration with other safety solutions. “What I find strong is that their collision protection works perfectly together with their machine protection,” says de Raaf. “That makes for a coherent whole.”

Long-term partnership

In addition to the quality of the products, cooperation also played an important role. “For me it is essential that a supplier is accessible and thinks along,” de Raaf emphasizes. “Axelent offers advice and support through local partners and stays involved from design to after installation.”

This commitment translates into trust and future prospects. Alcomij therefore sees the cooperation as a long-term relationship. “Our working environment is constantly changing,” concludes de Raaf. “It is then a great advantage that their systems can grow with us. There is a good chance that we will also realize future projects together.”