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Maximise Storage with Follett Bins

Maximise Storage with Follett Bins

The Coast Team on 6th Feb 2025

Follett Storage Bins stand as a testament to innovation and efficiency. These remarkable storage solutions are revolutionising how businesses manage their ice storage needs, offering capacities that reach up to 2,105 kg. These storage bins represent the pinnacle of quality and performance in the industry. Whether you're operating a bustling food service establishment or managing industrial operations requiring reliable ice storage, Follett bins deliver the perfect combination of capacity, safety, and user-friendly features that streamline your daily operations.

The SmartGATE Innovation: Redefining Ice Management

At the heart of Follett's storage solutions lies the patented SmartGATE ice shield system, a revolutionary feature that sets these bins apart from conventional storage solutions. This innovative system represents a significant advancement in ice storage technology, offering unprecedented control over ice flow and access.

The SmartGATE system employs a unique design that allows for precise control of ice flow within the bin. This patented technology ensures that ice is dispensed in a controlled manner, significantly reducing waste while maintaining optimal ice condition. The system includes a sophisticated ice shield that locks in three distinct positions, providing versatile access options while ensuring the gate returns effortlessly to its full down position, even when the bin is completely full.

Beyond basic ice control, the SmartGATE system incorporates safety features that protect both workers and the ice itself. The design allows for safe loosening of congealed ice without requiring users to lift the gate, significantly reducing the risk of accidents and spillage. This thoughtful design element exemplifies Follett's commitment to user safety and operational efficiency.

Construction Excellence: Built for Durability

Follett Storage Bins are engineered with durability as a cornerstone principle. The construction features reveal a dedication to longevity and performance that makes these bins a reliable investment for any business.

The exterior construction showcases full stainless steel design, including the back and bottom panels, providing exceptional resistance to environmental factors and daily wear. This robust construction ensures the bins can withstand the demands of high-traffic commercial environments while maintaining their appearance and functionality.

Inside the bins, non-corroding poly liners serve as an additional layer of protection. These liners extend throughout the bin's interior, including the top and trim, creating a hygienic environment that resists corrosion and simplifies maintenance. The poly liners effectively eliminate common issues such as rusting and pitting, while also preventing staining that can occur from chlorine release.

The PowerHinge™ door hinge system represents another engineering achievement. This heavy-duty feature allows for easy one-hand operation without the need for door catches, incorporating a moulded-in gasket that never requires replacement. This attention to detail in the door mechanism ensures smooth operation while minimising maintenance requirements.

Enhanced Accessibility and Safety Features

Follett has prioritised user safety and accessibility in their bin design, incorporating features that make daily operations safer and more efficient. The bins come equipped with translucent double-wall poly windows, allowing staff to monitor ice levels without opening the bin, thereby maintaining temperature stability and reducing energy waste.

The poly ice access door assembly demonstrates thoughtful design considerations. With no sharp corners and a space-saving depth of only 204 mm, the door assembly can be easily removed using just four screws, without the need for sealant. This design feature significantly simplifies installation and maintenance procedures.

For operations requiring frequent ice access, the bins feature a first-in-first-out ice rotation system, ensuring proper stock rotation and maintaining ice freshness. The SmartGATE ice shield provides positive control over ice flow into the access door area, making it equally convenient to use either a scoop or shovel for ice retrieval.

Versatile Storage Solutions for Every Need

Understanding that different operations have varying requirements, Follett offers a comprehensive range of storage bin models. The E-SG-D Series, for example, includes three models with widths ranging from 1250 to 1520 mm and capacities from 600 to 890 kg. These extra-deep bins, measuring 960 mm in depth, are specifically designed to accommodate both self-contained and remote scale ice-makers.

The modular design of Follett Storage Bins allows for customisation to meet specific operational needs. Custom-cut stainless tops are available for specific ice maker configurations, ensuring perfect compatibility with your existing equipment. The bins come with 153 mm stainless steel adjustable legs, providing flexibility in installation height and ensuring proper leveling.

Installation and Maintenance Considerations

Installing a Follett Storage Bin is straightforward, thanks to their user-friendly design features. The bins arrive assembled, requiring only the installation of legs. For locations with narrow doorways, the front door assembly can be easily removed, reducing the required installation clearance to manageable dimensions.

Maintenance requirements are minimal, thanks to the thoughtful selection of materials and construction methods. The non-CFC foamed-in-place insulation provides excellent thermal efficiency while contributing to environmental sustainability. The poly liners and stainless steel construction make cleaning simple and effective, helping maintain optimal hygiene standards.

Accessories and Additional Features

Follett offers a range of accessories that enhance the functionality of their storage bins. The SmartCART™ 75 ice cart with three Totes™ ice carriers provides mobile ice transport solutions, perfect for operations requiring ice distribution to multiple locations. Additional accessories include an ice paddle with hanging bracket, plastic shovel, and an 82 oz plastic ice scoop, all designed to complement the bins' operation.

For larger operations, center bin partitions are available for bins 121.9 cm wide and wider, allowing for separate storage of different ice types or creating designated zones for specific purposes. These partitions maintain the bins' efficiency while providing additional organisational options.

Warranty and Long-term Value

Follett demonstrates confidence in their products through comprehensive warranty coverage. The cabinet exterior, including top and trim, and the interior liner are warranted to be free of corrosion for five years from the installation date. This coverage extends to parts and labor for corrosion repair, providing peace of mind for business owners.

All other integral components are covered against defects in material and workmanship under normal use for five years from the installation date. This warranty coverage reflects Follett's commitment to quality and customer satisfaction, making their storage bins a sound investment for any business requiring reliable ice storage solutions.

Conclusion

Follett Storage Bins represent the pinnacle of ice storage technology, combining innovative features with robust construction to deliver superior performance and reliability. The patented SmartGATE system, durable materials, and thoughtful design elements work together to create storage solutions that enhance operational efficiency while maintaining ice quality and safety standards.

For businesses seeking to optimize their ice storage capabilities, Follett bins offer the perfect balance of capacity, functionality, and durability. Contact Coast Ice & Cold Solutions today to explore the full range of Follett Storage Bins and find the perfect solution for your ice storage needs. Our team of experts can help you select and configure the ideal storage system to meet your specific requirements, ensuring you maximise both storage capacity and operational efficiency.