Tips for Increasing Speed & Flexibility of Robotic Case Packers
Apr 24, 2018Tips for Increasing Speed & Flexibility of Robotic Case Packers
By: Stephen Gandy, Applications Engineer, Brenton part of the ProMach family of brands
The rule of thumb when deciding between robotic or conventional case packers has been:
- Use a robot when top loading regular slotted cases (RSC) at a rate of 30 to 40 cases per minute.
- For higher speeds, use a high-speed conventional sideload case packer
The rule is no longer as true today, because robots now cost less and are easier to use, creating more options for packagers. Here are three suggestions for gaining advantages from the new economic realities of robots in case packing.
- Consider adding multiple robots to increase throughput It is now economically feasible to have two, three, four, or more robots in a case packing application where before there was only one. With each additional robot comes higher throughput. Multiple robots can have a smaller footprint than a conventional sideload case packer. When adding robots, size the units correctly. Smaller robots cost less and if the payload is low, there is no reason to invest in larger units. This helps to make multiple robot systems more cost effective.
- Utilize both Delta and multi-axis robots for product orientation benefits If product orientation and pack pattern would slow down a multi-axis unit, ask the supplier about installing a Delta robot paired with a multi-axis arm unit in an integrated system. The Delta robot creates the pattern and a multi-axis arm unit loads the case. This dual solution rapidly changes pack patterns, increasing flexibility.
- Utilize automatic tool changeover when greater flexibility is required Automatic tool changeover decreases downtime, lowers labor costs, and makes the line more flexible in terms of packing a wide range of products. Be sure to discuss with the OEM the potential benefits of adding automatic tool changing capabilities.
About Brenton
A leader in servo technology packaging applications, Brenton engineers and manufactures case packing equipment, shrink-wrapping machines, robotic packaging systems, custom packaging systems, and product handling equipment for the food, beverage, pharmaceutical, personal care, and household products industries. Brenton also manufactures the Currie line of conventional and robotic palletizers. Brenton is a product brand of ProMach, a global leader in packaging line solutions. As part of the ProMach End of Line business line, Brenton helps our packaging customers protect and grow the reputation and trust of their consumers. ProMach is performance, and the proof is in every package. Learn more about Brenton at www.BrentonEngineering.com and more about ProMach at ProMachBuilt.com.
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