UNEX FlowCell Modular Flow Racks
Portable, reconfigurable flow rack workstations that boost space utilization by 50% and production efficiency by 30% — assembled in under one hour with a 7-year warranty.
Talk with a specialist. Call (800) 326-4403 or Email Sales@MH-USA.com
What Is UNEX FlowCell?
Modular, gravity-fed flow rack workstations designed for your facility’s unique operation.
UNEX FlowCell modular flow racks are dynamic storage units and workstations engineered to maximize pick efficiency, improve ergonomics, and support lean manufacturing principles. Unlike static shelving or fixed racking, FlowCell units are fully reconfigurable — they can be assembled, reconfigured, and redeployed as your operation evolves, all without specialized tools or equipment.
FlowCell is built on a framework of heavy-gauge steel vertical posts and horizontal beams that bolt together with standard 3/8″-16 hardware (only one wrench size: 9/16″). SpanTrack carton flow beds drop into the framework to create gravity-fed lanes that angle parts and products toward the picker. The result is an organized, ergonomic workstation that keeps inventory flowing with less bending, reaching, and wasted motion.
Material Handling USA supplies UNEX FlowCell modular flow rack systems for manufacturing facilities, distribution centers, retail backrooms, 3PL providers, and any operation that needs flexible, efficient storage that can change with the business. FlowCell complements our full line of carton flow rack and SpeedCell high-density storage solutions.
FlowCell Configurations
FlowCell modular flow racks come in multiple configurations to match your facility’s specific needs. Every unit is built from the same modular post-and-beam framework, so components are interchangeable and reconfigurable.
Stationary FlowCell
Floor-mounted units with foot plates for permanent lineside storage, supermarket racks, and sub-assembly stations. Ideal when the flow rack serves a fixed production line or picking zone. Available with SpanTrack Lane (aluminum rollers) or SpanTrack Wheel Bed (hex hub wheels) on every level.
Mobile FlowCell
Caster-mounted units that roll between workstations, production lines, or staging areas. Mobile FlowCells are perfect for lean manufacturing environments where materials need to move with the process. Each unit supports up to 3,000 lbs total load on casters, with 1,000 lbs per level capacity at 8 feet wide.
FlowCell Workstation
Full workstation configuration with integrated workbench, overhead tool bar for lighting and accessories, and tilted pick trays at ergonomic angles. Combines storage, picking, and assembly functions in one compact unit. Upper levels feature tilted pick trays while lower levels can include return lanes and workbench kits for assembly operations.
FlowCell Benefits & Features
A flexible, ergonomic solution that supports lean principles and keeps inventory organized.
Increase Space Utilization 50%
FlowCell keeps inventory organized in compact, accessible lanes instead of scattered across the factory floor. Totes and boxes are stored in return lanes rather than taking up floor space, increasing usable storage by up to 50%.
Boost Efficiency 30%
Gravity-angled lanes present parts directly toward the picker at ergonomic heights, eliminating wasted motion and reducing cycle times. Operations report up to 30% production efficiency improvements after deploying FlowCell.
Assemble in Under 1 Hour
FlowCell requires only one wrench size (9/16″) and standard 3/8″-16 hardware. The modular post-and-beam framework bolts together quickly — a complete unit can be assembled and operational in under one hour.
Fully Reconfigurable
When production lines change, products shift, or processes evolve, FlowCell adapts. Levels adjust on 1-inch centers, beams swap positions, and the entire unit can be reconfigured to match new requirements without new hardware.
Ergonomic Design
Engineered to angle parts toward the picker, minimizing reaching, bending, and repetitive strain injuries. Clean sightlines let workers see all inventory at a glance. The tilted pick tray option puts parts at the ideal ergonomic angle.
FIFO Inventory Rotation
Gravity-fed SpanTrack lanes ensure first-in, first-out inventory rotation. Replenishment from the back does not interfere with picking from the front, maintaining continuous flow and product quality throughout the process.
FlowCell Technical Specifications
| Component | Specification | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Vertical Posts | 1.75″ square tube | 3′ to 7′ lengths in 6″ increments, 0.375″ dia. holes on 1″ centers |
| Horizontal Beams | 1.75″ square tube | 1′ to 8′ lengths in 6″ increments; used for load and side beams |
| Carton Flow | SpanTrack Lane or Wheel Bed | All duty ratings available; drop-in installation |
| Level Capacity | 1,000 lbs per level | At 8′ wide configuration |
| Total Load (with casters) | 3,000 lbs | Mobile units on 4″ diameter casters |
| Level Adjustment | 1″ centers | Adjustable to any height within post range |
| Finish | Powder coated, FlowCell Blue | Durable industrial powder coat finish |
| Hardware | 3/8″-16 UNC Grade 2 | One wrench size (9/16″), 20 lb-ft torque |
| Warranty | 7 years | Industry-leading manufacturer warranty |
FlowCell Accessories & Options
Customize your FlowCell with integrated accessories for a complete workstation solution.
Workbench Kit
Galvanized steel workbench available in 12″ and 18″ depths. Attaches directly to the FlowCell framework with included brackets, creating an integrated assembly or packing surface at ergonomic working height.
Overhead Tool Bar
Strut channel tool bar mounts to the top of front posts. Provides mounting points for task lighting, power strips, pneumatic tools, monitor arms, and other accessories — keeping everything the worker needs within arm’s reach without cluttering the work surface.
Add-On Pick Tray
Tilted at a 30° angle, pick trays in 12″ and 15″ depths hang over the front beam to present small parts at an ergonomic picking angle. Full-length label holders attach to the tray front with adhesive tape for clear SKU identification.
Casters
4″ diameter swivel or rigid casters with side brake convert any stationary FlowCell into a mobile unit. Casters attach to foot plates with included 3/8″ bolts — no modifications needed to the base frame.
Pick Shelves
Galvanized steel pick shelves available in tilted and flat configurations, up to 48″ deep. Use flat shelves for bulk storage levels and tilted shelves for gravity-fed small parts picking.
How FlowCell Supports Lean Manufacturing
FlowCell modular flow racks align directly with lean manufacturing principles to eliminate waste and improve quality.
Waste Elimination
FlowCell eliminates wasted time, motion, and space by keeping parts accessible at the pick face, supporting FIFO stock rotation, and improving overall visibility within a compact footprint. No more searching for parts on the factory floor.
Continuous Flow
FlowCell keeps inventory moving efficiently from one process to the next, supporting uninterrupted operations in assembly, kitting, and parts replenishment. Ideal for lineside storage, mobile carts, and workstation integration.
Just-In-Time (JIT)
The flexible modular design can be configured to match your workflow, keeping inventory aligned with production needs. Mobile FlowCell units deliver parts exactly when and where they are needed on the production line.
5S System Support
By keeping components organized in smooth-flowing, accessible lanes, FlowCell supports the Sort, Set, Shine, Standardize, and Sustain methodology. Clean sightlines and dedicated lanes for every part make audits and quality checks faster.
Who Benefits from FlowCell?
FlowCell modular flow racks streamline processes across industries with flexible, efficient storage.
- Manufacturing: Optimized and accessible lineside storage and picking areas for production lines. Create efficient manufacturing supermarket racks that align with lean principles by reducing waste and keeping parts within arm’s reach.
- Order Fulfillment Centers: Customized workstations for flow-through picking, packing, and kitting operations. FlowCell adapts to your specific warehouse facility layout and order profile.
- Retail Backrooms & BOPIS: Accommodate space constraints in retail backrooms or pick-up areas. Organize inventory or stage orders at ergonomic elevations with the flexibility to adapt as retail needs change seasonally.
- Third-Party Logistics (3PL): An agile, cost-effective storage solution for 3PL providers who need to accommodate various product sizes and quickly adapt to different client contracts, even in smaller footprints or height-restricted areas.
- Automotive & Aerospace: Deliver components to the assembly line with mobile FlowCell carts. The reconfigurable design handles model changeovers and new component introductions without ordering new equipment.
- Food & Beverage: Organize production ingredients and packaging materials at lineside stations. FIFO rotation ensures freshness and lot traceability. SpanTrack Wheel Bed is freezer and cooler rated for cold environments.
Related Solutions from Material Handling USA
SpanTrack Wheel Bed
The carton flow bed that powers FlowCell. Full-width hex hub wheels handle any carton size with zero hang-ups.
UNEX SpeedCell
High-density vertical storage that fits inside pallet rack bays — compresses shelving rows into compact pick zones.
Carton Flow Rack
Full carton flow rack systems for distribution, fulfillment, and manufacturing. Design, supply, and installation.
Frequently Asked Questions
FlowCell is a self-contained, modular flow rack system with its own steel framework. It stands independently and can be placed anywhere on the factory floor — lineside, at workstations, or as a mobile cart. Standard carton flow installs inside existing pallet rack bays. FlowCell is ideal for point-of-use applications, while pallet rack carton flow is better for large-scale warehouse pick modules.
Under one hour with basic hand tools. Only one wrench size (9/16″) is needed. All hardware is included, and the modular post-and-beam framework bolts together using standard 3/8″-16 hardware with a recommended torque of 20 lb-ft.
Yes. Adding 4″ diameter casters to the foot plates converts any FlowCell into a mobile unit. Swivel and rigid casters are available, with side brakes for locking in place. Mobile units support up to 3,000 lbs total load.
FlowCell accepts both SpanTrack Lane (aluminum rollers for uniform cartons) and SpanTrack Wheel Bed (hex hub wheels for mixed carton sizes) in all duty ratings. Cell SpanTrack uses drop-in installation with notched front ends that rest on beams.
UNEX FlowCell comes with a 7-year manufacturer warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship under normal use. Material Handling USA provides ongoing support and can assist with any warranty claims.
Get a Free FlowCell Quote
Material Handling USA supplies UNEX FlowCell modular flow racks for manufacturing, fulfillment, and lean operations nationwide. Contact us for a custom solution and quote.