The decision to upgrade your packaging line can benefit your operation in many ways: increased production, reduced labor and insurance costs, less liability, improved product handling and protection during transport. Or maybe you are looking to solve an operating issue that has been plaguing your line. In any case, the decisions you make during the upgrade can affect your productivity for years to come. Understanding your options, and what you need to consider during your selection, will help you to make the right decision that will bring long-term gains to your productivity.
Robotic, conventional, hybrid? Automatic or semi-auto? High or low level? The right machine for your line will depend on many factors. Not long ago, there were major differences in cost and capabilities between conventional and robotic palletizers. Robots were best for multi-SKU applications that ran at relatively low speeds, while conventional palletizers were applicable for dedicated medium and high-speed lines. Today’s robotic palletizers can achieve higher speeds, and new control technology has given conventional units greatly increased flexibility with no downtime for changeover. Added to the mix is a new breed of hybrid palletizers that combine robotic product placement with conventional squaring devices. Finally, semi-automatic palletizers that offer a cost effective upgrade from manual palletizing for low speed lines. So, what is best for your application? First, you need to analyze your requirements: