Fuel Cell Manufacturer

Supporting Advanced Testing: PortaFab Modular Office Installed for Burnaby Fuel Cell Facility

With over 45 years of experience, this Burnaby, BC-based company is a leader in developing and manufacturing proton exchange membrane (PEM) fuel cell products that drive innovation in heavy-duty motive power, portable energy, and material handling markets. Known for pushing the boundaries of clean energy technology, they have partnered with Hi-Cube Storage Products on several occasions to enhance their facility operations.

Most recently, they needed to build an office in their warehouse to serve as a dedicated, enclosed testing area—one that could integrate within their active production floor and accommodate specialized tools, including an overhead crane.

Challenges Faced:

To support their growing operations, the client needed a modular warehouse office within their existing Burnaby production facility that would:

Provide a fully contained area for accurate product testing
Integrate seamlessly within the production floor without disrupting operations
Allow for future reconfiguration or relocation as testing needs evolve
Be designed with the structural clearance to accommodate an overhead crane

Solutions Provided:

Custom PortaFab Modular Office Installation

Hi-Cube installed a high-quality, customized PortaFab inplant modular office within the production area, standing at 20 ft tall, 43 ft long, and 31 ft deep. Key features included:

A clean, fully enclosed environment for consistent and accurate product testing
Structural engineering to accommodate the installation and operation of an overhead crane, highlighting PortaFab’s structural versatility
Modular design flexibility for future adjustments or relocation
Use of high-performance PortaFab components, known for durability and easy integration to support evolving testing needs

Seamless On-Site Installation

Hi-Cube worked closely with the client’s operations team to ensure the modular warehouse office was installed safely and efficiently, without disrupting daily production workflows.

Results:

By integrating a PortaFab modular office into their facility, this Burnaby-based fuel cell manufacturer was able to create a dedicated testing space that met both their functional and technical needs. The solution offered privacy and structure, all while supporting continued growth in the clean energy sector without disrupting daily production.

Build Your Modular Office With Hi-Cube

Serving Burnaby and the Greater Vancouver area, Hi-Cube specializes in prefabricated warehouse offices and custom modular environments for flexible and effective workspace solutions. Whether you need a cleanroom, an enclosed environment engineered around your equipment, or to simply build an office in your warehouse, we provide expert design, engineering, and installation services tailored to your space.

Ready to optimize your workspace with modular solutions? Contact Hi-Cube today to get started.

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Fuel Cell Manufacturer

Powering Growth: Custom Vertical Lift Modules for Burnaby Fuel Cell Manufacturer

A leading manufacturer specializing in proton exchange membrane (PEM) fuel cell products, based in Burnaby, BC, provides solutions for various markets, including heavy-duty motive applications (buses and trams), portable power, material handling, and engineering services. As part of their ongoing expansion and to support their growing hydrogen fuel cell production capacity, they partnered with Hi-Cube, a trusted provider of Modula automated storage solutions in the Lower Mainland.

Challenges Faced:

With increasing demand in hydrogen fuel cell production, the Burnaby-based manufacturer faced difficulties managing their growing inventory. The existing system was not able to handle the volume, leading to bottlenecks and space constraints. They needed a solution that would provide:

Increased storage capacity
A compact footprint to conserve valuable floor space
Customizable height to accommodate their unique inventory sizes

Solutions Implemented:

Custom VLM Installation:

Hi-Cube installed two Modula Lift Vertical Lift Modules (VLM) at the Burnaby plant.
With a height of 19.36 ft (5.90 m), the two Modula Lift VLMs can now store up to 1,467.14 cu ft (41.54 cu m) of material in just 239.64 sq ft (22.26 sq m) of floor space, significantly increasing the storage capacity of the client’s facility.
Each VLM featured an internal bay and a single delivery system. The customizable tray heights of the Modula Lift provided an ergonomic and efficient way to store unique inventory sizes.

Collaborative Planning:

We worked closely with the client to design the optimal VLM configuration for both current and future needs. Considering the growing demands of the fuel cell manufacturer, the solution was not only scalable but perfectly aligned with their Burnaby-based operations.

Summary:

The implementation of Modula Vertical Lift Modules (VLM) significantly improved inventory management for the Burnaby fuel cell manufacturer, optimizing space utilization and facilitating the company’s production growth.

Post-installation, Hi-Cube provided comprehensive employee training to ensure the team could efficiently operate the new storage systems for long-term success.

As an authorized Modula VLM dealer in Canada, Hi-Cube offers full-service solutions from selecting the right automated storage system to expert installation and training. Are you wondering if a VLM is the right solution for your warehouse? Learn more from our blog.

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Public Library

Enriching Community Learning: Custom Shelving Solutions at West Kelowna Library

Our valued customer is a public library system serving the diverse community of BC’s Okanagan region, including Kelowna and West Kelowna, BC. With 29 branches across the area, the library provides access to a vast collection of books, magazines, newspapers, multimedia resources, and digital content, catering to readers and learners of all ages, from children and teens to adults. This library system plays a crucial role in fostering literacy and lifelong learning in the Okanagan community.

Challenges Faced:

After successfully partnering with other library locations throughout Kelowna and the Okanagan, we were approached by the new West Kelowna Library. They faced challenges in organizing their book collection, which hindered the creation of a clean and aesthetically pleasing environment for patrons. Enhancing the space’s visual appeal and functionality was essential, and our expertise was sought to develop a tailored solution that would transform the library experience.

Solutions Provided:

To address these challenges, we implemented the following solutions to the West Kelowna Library:

Stationary Units:

A total of 48 stationary units provides stable shelving for frequently used materials, ensuring a reliable solution for high-traffic areas. This enhances accessibility and encourages greater use of library resources.

Mobile Carts:

The library features 30 mobile carts, comprising a mix of single and duo bays. These versatile carts facilitate effortless movement and reconfiguration, allowing the library staff to adapt quickly for events or community activities.

Wall-Mounted Shelving Units:

With 5 wall-mounted shelving units, this design optimizes vertical storage while freeing up valuable floor space, seamlessly blending with the library’s overall aesthetic. This solution not only maximizes storage but also contributes to a more open and inviting environment.

Design Enhancements:

Custom steel fabricated carts with durable birch tops and siding ensure resilience and add a polished look.
Cantilever shelving parts sourced from Spacesaver provide robust construction, allowing the library to adapt to changing needs.

Summary:

At Hi-Cube Storage Products, we take pride in our ongoing partnership with the Okanagan library system. Having previously collaborated on successful projects across multiple locations in Kelowna, British Columbia, we are committed to enhancing the library’s ability to serve the diverse needs of the local community.

By addressing the unique challenges of organizing their extensive book collection, we were able to create a welcoming and functional space that elevates the patron experience. Our tailored solutions, including stationary units, mobile carts, and wall-mounted shelving, not only optimized the library’s layout but also improved the visual appeal.

The positive feedback from our customer underscores the success of this partnership and the impact of our storage solutions on fostering a vibrant learning environment. As we continue to support the Okanagan library system in its mission to promote literacy and lifelong learning, we are excited about future opportunities to contribute to the growth and development of the community’s educational resources.

As libraries adapt to evolving community needs, Hi-Cube Storage Products offers innovative shelving solutions to enhance accessibility and functionality. Let us help you transform your library in Kelowna and Interior BC into a vibrant space that fosters learning and literacy. Contact us today!

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Rigging Company

Improving Safety Excellence: Engineered Storage Solutions for a Rigging Company in Langley, BC

A leading rigging company based in Langley, BC, known for its expertise in industrial rigging and lifting solutions, faced significant challenges maintaining optimal safety standards and regulatory compliance within its warehouse operations. The client turned to Hi-Cube for expert guidance in upgrading its warehouse infrastructure.

Challenges Faced:

The project commenced with a revisit to a job site where Hi-Cube had supplied racking 3-4 years earlier. The client encountered permitting and structural challenges from outdated racking systems and anchoring issues, resulting in improper storage utilization.

Solutions:

Pallet Racking Replacement:

Upgraded the old racking with a durable roll-formed racking system from North American Storage Equipment.
This 56 ft long system, comprising 4 ft and 8 ft beams, is known for its resilience in handling heavy loads and tough warehouse conditions, providing a dependable solution for replacing damaged racking and ensuring compliance to warehouse racking regulations.

Engineering Enhancements:

Addressed structural concerns by lowering beams to meet engineering criteria, ensuring stability and safety. 
High anchoring was rectified to industry standards, addressing both security concerns and WorkSafe BC racking requirements.

Summary:

The comprehensive solutions implemented by Hi-Cube brought the client’s warehouse in Langley, BC up to industry standards, including compliance with WorkSafe BC racking regulations, and facilitated a smooth permit application process without any issues. Premium-grade products like the North American Storage Equipment roll-formed racking system improved safety and optimized space utilization, showcasing the effectiveness of tailored engineering solutions.

The client’s return business highlights the trust and satisfaction derived from Hi-Cube’s services. We prioritize long-term relationships with our clients, ensuring that every interaction is marked by professionalism, expertise, and a dedication to exceeding expectations.

This project underscores the importance of regular warehouse racking inspections for ongoing permitting compliance and operational assurance. Are you ready to enhance your warehouse safety? Schedule a consultation with Hi-Cube today. We provide comprehensive storage solutions, including engineering expertise, racking inspections, and seamless Permit Coordination.

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Museum

Enhancing Artifact Preservation: Innovative Spacesaver Solutions at Vancouver Museum

A museum located in Vancouver, BC, found itself at a crossroads, facing the urgent need for a storage expansion to accommodate its vast artifact collection and pave the way for future growth. Recognizing this challenge, the museum engaged in a collaborative partnership with Hi-Cube, leading to the implementation of cutting-edge museum storage solutions. These innovations not only addressed spatial constraints but also prioritized the preservation of the invaluable collections.

Challenges Faced:

Facing challenges to enhance its storage capabilities, the museum fought with limited space and preservation concerns for its extensive 40,000-piece collection. Beyond sheer quantity, artifacts required protection from overcrowded shelves and improved accessibility, which involved meticulous selection of materials and environmental impact assessments to ensure the artifacts’ long-term well-being. In extensive consultation, Hi-Cube collaborated closely with the stakeholders, designing a custom solution, providing materials, and installing components within budget constraints. This comprehensive approach tackled space limitations and ensured the preservation and organized accessibility for the museum’s valuable artifacts.

Solutions

1. Museum Mobile Shelving:

Reconfigured the existing mobile shelving system by adding nine carriages, each stretching an impressive 44 feet.
This upgraded solution boasted 26 rows of shelving, 14 feet of flat tray cabinets, over 90 feet of hanging garment storage, 26 feet of rolled textile storage, and 190 custom trays for small artifacts.
We took steps to protect the environment using low VOC plywood subfloor and water-based, eco-friendly glue. This minimizes harmful fumes and ensures the safety of the stored artifacts.

2. Museum Storage Cabinets (Static Shelving):

Extra shelving was strategically built around the existing concrete building columns, optimizing the available static shelving space.
The existing 336 linear feet of shelving was modified to meet project specifications and to comply with seismic requirements.

3. Art Print Display Racks:

A cutting-edge modular art display rack system was employed to store hanging artifacts, doubling the amount of art storage available.
Additional rails were installed to accommodate the anticipated collection growth, ensuring the seamless expansion and organization of various items within the museum storage system.

4. ActivRAC – Automated Storage System:

An ActivRAC mobile racking system with four carriages was implemented to store heavy and oversized objects, further enhancing the museum’s storage capabilities.
The system included mechanically assisted rows with adjustable gear ratios, ensuring ease of movement for objects.

5. Custom Design Despite the Limited Budget & Disruptions:

Initiated a phased approach, enabling the gradual movement of collections to the completed storage sections during ongoing installation phases.
Executed the project quickly with minimal disruption to the museum’s day-to-day operations.
Hi-Cube assumed full responsibility for architectural design, Engineering, Permit Coordination, and project management.
By repurposing existing museum storage cabinets, Hi-Cube effectively minimized costs while achieving the desired museum collection storage capacity.

Summary:

The joint endeavour between the museum and Hi-Cube resulted in an innovative and cost-effective museum storage solution that not only met the immediate needs of safeguarding artifacts but also allowed for future growth. The storage infrastructure, which integrated museum mobile storage, static shelving, an art display rack system, and an ActivRAC mobile racking system manufactured by Spacesaver ushered in a new era of secure and environmentally conscious preservation for the extensive collection.

Embrace excellence by joining the ranks of esteemed museums that entrust Hi-Cube to preserve and showcase their cultural heritage. Take the initiative today, Contact Us, and let’s embark on a journey to unlock the full potential of your museum’s collection.

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Outlet Mall

Elevating Guest Experience: Spacesaver’s Day Use Lockers in Lower Mainland Outlet

A premier outlet destination within the Lower Mainland BC near an international airport offers a convenient solution for guests to store their luggage while shopping. However, the existing locker system posed challenges due to misplaced keys, making many lockers unusable and inconveniencing guests and staff. Implementing a more secure, user-friendly, and easily accessible day use locker system became imperative to uphold the outlet’s commitment to customer convenience and satisfaction.

Challenges Faced:

The client encountered ongoing problems as guests frequently lost keys to the provided lockers. The misplaced keys resulted in a constant cycle of locked compartments, making them unavailable to guests, with fewer than half of the 33 compartments in working order. This issue significantly hindered the efficiency of the storage service.

Solutions

1. Day Use Lockers:

Hi-Cube supplied and installed Spacesaver day use lockers equipped with mechanical combination locks.
This upgrade removed the reliance on physical keys, effectively mitigating the risk of key misplacement.
The mechanical combination locks ensured enhanced security and convenience for users accessing the compartments.
Additionally, the new keyless locker system increased ease of use, so guests didn’t need to carry or handle physical keys, thereby streamlining the storage service.

2. Robust Construction for Security & Durability:

The day use lockers were equipped with a durable steel welded frame, significantly enhancing security measures for stored items.
Double-panel steel doors added an extra layer of durability, ensuring the safety of belongings within the compartments.
Custom vinyl numbering helped identify compartments, simplifying the retrieval process for users.

3. Enhanced Operational Efficiency Through Streamlined Processes:

Staff were equipped with a master key to assist guests facing locker access issues.
Immediate resolution of access problems reflects our commitment to ensuring a smooth and hassle-free experience for all day use locker service users.
Hi-Cube provided a comprehensive tutorial video demonstrating the straightforward operation of the newly installed mechanical combination locks.

Summary:

Implementing Spacesaver day use lockers with mechanical combination locks showed notable improvements in locker management at the outlet mall. Staff efficiency increased as they could easily access lockers with a master key and swiftly reset them for the next guest without dependency on individual keys.

Energized by the success, the client was so happy with the result that more lockers are being proposed in other locations in the mall.

Moreover, the durable construction improved the reliability and security of the mall’s storage locker system. With enhanced usability and reduced operational hassles, the revamped locker storage solution positively impacted guest satisfaction and the overall effectiveness of the outlet’s luggage storage service, which was their primary goal.

Upgrade your storage locker system today with Hi-Cube’s Spacesaver day use lockers. Perfect for temporary storage for guests, tourists, and more. Contact Us now for safe and dependable storage solutions and stay ahead in providing top-notch services to your visitors.

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Pipe Supplier

Boosting Warehouse Capacity: Structural Cantilever System in Delta, BC

In the bustling landscape of industrial growth, companies often grapple with the challenge of optimizing storage space to accommodate escalating demands. Such was the case with a pipe supplier in Delta, BC, facing exponential growth and the pressing need for enhanced pipe storage rack solutions—Cue Hi-Cube, offering innovative cantilever warehouse racking systems tailored to meet the unique needs of this established business.

Challenges Faced:

The pipe supplier encountered several challenges. As the company expanded its operations, the demand for storage space surged beyond the existing capacity, posing a significant logistical hurdle. A notable portion of the company’s inventory, including different style pipes, fittings, valves, and more, overflowed into the yard, leading to a cluttered and disorganized workspace. This hindered operational efficiency and posed safety concerns for the workforce.

Solutions

1. Structural Cantilever Racking System:

Recognizing the need for a comprehensive pipe storage solution, Hi-Cube employed a structural cantilever racking system—a multi-level storage apparatus tailored for storing bulky and irregularly shaped items to effectively house the diverse array of pipe product lines previously scattered across the yard.
This heavy-duty 200-foot-long system, with a maximum load weight of 9000 lbs, optimizes vertical space utilization while ensuring easy accessibility to inventory. Each column, standing at a height of 21 feet, consists of 8 cantilever rack arms, enhancing its functionality and storage capacity.

2. Collaborative Approach:

Hi-Cube adopted a collaborative approach, working closely with key stakeholders to develop and implement a tailored warehouse cantilever racking storage strategy.
Through thorough management and seamless coordination, Hi-Cube ensured a cohesive and integrated approach in every stage of the process, from the initial consultation, permit coordination, and engineering to installation, ultimately ensuring the project’s success.

Summary:

In summary, this joint effort between the client, a long-standing pipe supplier in Delta, BC, and Hi-Cube Storage Products resulted in a remarkable warehouse environment transformation. Hi-Cube’s innovative solutions, including implementing a structural cantilever racking system and a collaborative approach with key stakeholders, optimized space utilization by overcoming the challenges of rapid growth and disorganized storage. Additionally, these solutions enhanced operational productivity and safety, setting a new industrial warehouse management standard.

Whether facing similar challenges or seeking to enhance warehouse efficiency proactively, Hi-Cube Storage Products offers comprehensive solutions tailored to meet the unique needs of every client. Contact Hi-Cube Storage Products today to embark on your warehouse transformation journey!

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