End-of-line equipment for palletizing products needs to be safe and efficient as well as fast. Inthe past, high-speed solutions were reserved for traditional high-level palletizers. Byenhancing its existing machines and processes, Sidel is now able to bring the same level ofperformance to low-level palletizers with its new SP 1000 HS palletizer.
This new palletizer represents improved machinery with intelligent software that increases the productivity of palletizing solutions. This innovative breakthrough is the result of two core functions, layer preparation and palletization, working together more effectively than ever before.
Whereas high-level palletizers work with stationary layers and moving pallets, low-level palletizers, like the new SP 1000 HS, maintain steady pallets while the layers are in movement. During layer formation the machine rotates and positions the packs into a perfectly shaped layer to be transferred onto the pallet. In the following palletization phase, the layers are picked up and safely stacked onto the pallet with precision. Sidel managed to increase the speed of this process by improving the way the two steps of the process interact. Sidel’s new patent-pending “pusher” is able to guide the layers alternatively to the right or to the left while optimizing the “return stroke” time, which, in the traditional approach, is substantially an “empty” movement.
PLACE software: Automatic palletizing pattern configuration
The process is supported by Sidel’s new software program PLACE, short for Pallet and Layer Automated Configuration Editor. It creates and manages diverse pattern configurations before the layer-formation phase. This is particularly useful for short-batch runs that require constant switching between formats and packaging types.
The software, which can be installed either on the touch screen operator panel or on a PC, is compatible with Sidel’s Robo-Smart and Axo-Smart layer-preparation systems. It automatically checks whether the pallets are suitable and stable while optimizing efficiency and preventing errors.
Layer formation: Flexible configuration
Sidel’s Robo-Smart and Axo-Smart form and prepare the layers as the packs come off the production line onto the conveyor belts. Format changeovers regarding layer, bottles, or packs are entirely automatic and software-managed avoiding the need to stop the line. Using the PLACE software, the operator simply chooses the required format on the operator panel controls. As Axo- Smart and Robo-Smart treat packs very gently, there is virtually no risk of product damage. It is nearly impossible for packs to fall due to oscillation, as the device handling the pack travels at exactly the same speed as the surface on which the product travels.
Palletization: Even greater flexibility
For the second step in the palletization process, the new SP 1000 HS palletizer permits use of eitherRobo-Kombi or Robo-Column which physically picks up the packs and places them on the pallets.Both solutions offer high-speed operation, easy integration with existing solutions, and versatilegripping for working with different formats, including crates, shrink-wrapped packs, loose bottles,plastic trays, empty PET bottles and others.
