8th November 2024

Optimising warehouse efficiency with internal partitioning solutions

Modern warehouses need more than simple storage; they demand versatile environments that cater to evolving operational requirements. Whether it’s the need to control temperatures, manage noise levels, or create designated work zones, having flexible, durable partitioning solutions can transform how warehouses function.

Galebreaker’s Flexipart internal partitioning solutions offer a unique approach to warehouse optimisation, delivering dust and temperature control, noise reduction, and more – through flexible, custom-fit partition walls.

Warehouse partition walls like Flexipart are designed for modern logistics needs, creating safer, cleaner, and more efficient spaces. With over 40 years in fabric engineering, Galebreaker brings trusted industry expertise to facilities needing adaptable, durable internal partitioning systems.

Flexipart systems are ideal for creating zones that support operational needs without the complexity or permanence of traditional walls.

What are the main benefits and reasons to consider installing warehouse divider walls?

The main benefits of using warehouse partitioning include:

  • Zoning: Dividing areas enables warehouses to better-utilise the building, creating dust, temperature, and sound control zones for better workflow management
  • Enhanced hygiene: Ideal for sensitive environments such as food processing and packing facilities which require sealed areas for cross-contamination control
  • Flexible space configurations: Easy-to-install and reposition, Flexipart provides layouts that can adapt with changing demands
  • Maximising vertical and horizontal space: Partitioning can extend across mezzanines, optimising available warehouse space for multi-level usage.

Flexipart offers unique adaptability for warehouses looking to optimise their internal space,” explains Mike Bryan, Galebreaker’s area sales manager. “It’s all about creating the right environment to boost productivity and control your conditions effectively.

There’s multiple uses for our internal partition walls, we’ve done installations across all manner of sectors and clients up and down the country – from segregating clean areas in food manufacturing facilities for the likes of Walls ice cream and Brecon Water, to partitioning off book distribution centers, creating veranda spaces at the Royal Highland Show Ground, and even an installation at Aston Martin’s facility in Coventry.

Flexipart: A tailored warehouse partitioning system

The Flexipart system is a versatile warehouse partitioning solution. Unlike rigid walls, Flexipart uses a combination of reinforced, durable PVC coating and polyester. The composite material is designed for both flexibility and resilience, making it easy to install and adjust as required.

We’ve applied our expertise in engineering mesh fabrics for agricultural buildings and applied it to solid materials for the logistics, manufacturing and supply chain sectors.

We can do Flexipart in various treatments and colours, but it’s typically a white, translucent material that is the most common as this allows light transmission through the partitions. The walls can also accommodate custom set-ups of doors and windows for increased access, light and ventilating as and where needed,” says Mike. “They are very durable and although you do need to be mindful of guarding against collisions with forklift trucks, the beauty of the product is that individual panels can be replaced and installed if needed,” explains Mike.  

Key features of the Flexipart system:

  • Custom fit for varied spaces: Flexipart is designed to meet precise requirements, allowing for seamless integration across various floor plans and mezzanine levels
  • Durable fabric construction: Engineered with high-quality materials to withstand industrial conditions, including dust, heat, and general wear
  • Low maintenance and easy setup: Quick installation and minimal upkeep requirements make it a go-to for busy warehouses
  • Ventilation options for airflow management: Flexipart partitions help maintain optimal air quality while managing dust, temperature and contaminants

As Mike points out, Flexipart allows for operational flexibility you don’t get with permanent industrial room partition walls: “You can adjust it to meet your specific needs—whether it’s dust control, zoning, refrigeration, heat control, noise suppression, or adding airflow and ventilation – we’ve got you covered.”

Maximising warehouse space: vertical and horizontal applications

A significant advantage of Flexipart is its compatibility with mezzanine floors. By partitioning vertically as well as horizontally, warehouses can fully use all available space. This is particularly beneficial in high-storage environments where maximising space is critical to productivity, or where safe walkways are needed to link two upper-floor sections.

Flexipart adapts seamlessly to mezzanine setups, making it a valuable option for any warehouse aiming to make the most of its height as well as floor space,” says Mike. “It’s an ideal choice for businesses that need to optimise every square metre.

If, for example, you have a barn or warehouse and wish to divide the space up into two to accommodate different uses or tenants, you can add a length of Flexipart across to effectively create two buildings in one. This is great if you want to add offices – or you might have certain noisy or dusty processes you want to screen off from the customer facing side of your operations or to protect workers from prolonged exposure to – Flexipart can do it all.

Real-life applications of warehouse partitioning solutions

Mike shared a few practical examples of Flexipart’s transformative impact in real-world settings:

  • Dust control in manufacturing facilities: A recent project used Flexipart partitions to manage dust between production zones, improving air quality and reducing contamination
  • Noise reduction in distribution centres: A distribution hub facing significant noise levels successfully implemented Flexipart to create sound-controlled areas, providing a quieter, more focused workspace for employees
  • Temperature-controlled storage: For a warehouse storing perishable goods, Flexipart partitions helped to maintain temperature stability, enhancing energy efficiency without altering the building’s structure

According to Mike: “Flexipart’s internal partitioning  system has proved invaluable across different industries by offering a customisable, practical approach to zoning. It truly enhances both environmental control, working environment and workflow.

How Flexipart is installed: A seamless solution for your warehouse

Another of Flexipart’s defining benefits is its adaptable installation, designed to minimise downtime and fit easily within busy warehouse environments.

Here’s how the process works:

  1. Custom measurements and site assessment: Installation starts with precise measurements of your warehouse space, accounting for any unique layouts, mezzanine levels, or specific zoning requirements. This custom-fit approach ensures Flexipart can segment your space efficiently, whether you need floor-to-ceiling partitioning or zoned areas for specialised uses.
  2. Framework installation and attachments: Flexipart’s lightweight framework attaches directly to existing warehouse structures, such as walls, beams, and purlins, without requiring major modifications. Flexipart can run from floor to ceiling or attach to mezzanine levels, providing flexibility for various layouts and zones. The framework can also be easily modified in sections, scaling up or down to meet your needs.
  3. Fabric fitting and span capabilities: After the framework is installed, Flexipart’s reinforced fabric panels are secured, creating a seamless, durable wall. The system spans up to 20 meters in width and 10 meters in height, ideal for everything from large open areas to smaller, designated spaces. Each panel is made-to-measure, ensuring an optimal fit and immediate functionality upon installation.
  4. Final adjustments and quality check: The installation wraps up with a final inspection, ensuring all panels are properly secured, tensioned, and adjusted. Flexipart integrates seamlessly into the warehouse environment, allowing operations to continue without interruption.

 

Top tips for selecting the right warehouse partitioning solution

To ensure you choose the best partitioning for your warehouse, Mike provides the following advice:

  • Evaluate your layout: Map out areas where separation will improve efficiency and assess how much flexibility you need to adapt spaces over time
  • Identify environmental controls: Consider specific needs or regulations you must comply with for dust, temperature, or sound management to choose the best configurations.
  • Do you need socialist materials? With a thermal resistance measurement of 4 W/m²K, it insulates and maintains temperatures effectively, and it can reduce high-frequency sound by up to 17dB. This combination makes it highly suited for areas where climate and noise control are important
  • Plan for accessibility: Warehouse partitions should support easy access and efficient traffic flow, particularly for high-traffic zones
  • Prioritise low maintenance solutions: Durable systems like Flexipart offer longevity with minimal upkeep and the possibility to replace individual sections, rather than a full wall
  • Assess installation and customisation: Choose systems that are fast to install, especially in large spaces, and can adapt to mezzanine levels and unusual floor plans

Our Flexipart solutions are built to provide lasting value by creating spaces that truly support the operation,” Mike says. “We aim to give businesses the flexibility to adapt their environments as needed, and Flexipart is a key tool in achieving that.”

Thinking about sizing up your warehouse partitioning?

Contact Galebreaker to learn more about Flexipart’s customisable options and how flexible partitioning systems can transform your workspace.