PALLETIZING: MODULAR, FLEXIBLE, EXPANDABLE
Simple order picking thanks to clever details
After production, an automated, cost-effective and gentle product packaging process is essential. In addition to complete production lines, Kurre Systems has increasingly specialized in the end-of-line sector over the years, offering a wide range of complete solutions: from palletizing and labelling to dispensing faulty products and stretch wrapping of entire full pallets.
The special feature: “All components are modular. From the palletizing areas and the gripper arm to the stretch film, all elements are customizable. This means the machine can be adapted to changing requirements throughout its entire life cycle,” reports Marco Kreuzkam, sales representative at Kurre Systems.
“Many small details in the design of the machine and its individual components make this possible. A customer can initially start with minimal equipment, consisting of one palletizing station with manual ejection system and a 3-axis system, for example. However, if the requirements change, we can react in a targeted manner, add missing functions and expand the machine,” explains Kreuzkam. As a result of this enormous flexibility, the equipment can easily be expanded to include additional palletizing stations (for example, storage stations for intermediate and top layers), an automated ejection system for faulty spools or coils can be installed and the gripper pintle (for spools) can be converted to a gripper arm (for coils).
“Many suppliers on the market offer palletizing systems, but at Kurre Systems the major advantages are in the details. Due to the daily changes in production conditions, our in-house experts have developed a concept for the most flexible solution to protect our customers’ investment as long as possible,” adds Kreuzkam. Through many small adaptations and special solutions, the pallet dispenser, for example, can accommodate a wide range of pallet dimensions and orientations. Euro pallets or special dimensions (e.g. 800 x 800 mm or 1,200 x 1,200 mm) are no challenge. Different materials such as wood or plastic as well as reused pallets are also processed reliably and gently.
The product gripper of the palletizing system offers many options for the entire process. A fully equipped 4-axis system enables the movement and palletizing of spools horizontally or vertically. Additional integrated vacuum arms guarantee a reliable placement of intermediate and top layers – depending on customer requirements. Gripper arms are used for processing ring goods.
“In addition to palletizing, many customers have special needs for labeling,” Kreuzkam continues. Depending on the requirements, labels can be applied to the spools and rings fully automatically. Labels are either placed on the product or on the flange of the spools. Saving material is achieved by printing directly onto the spool flange. The products can also be labeled at various and multiple positions.
A semi-automatic or fully automatic final stretch unit ensures additional securing for the products. The unit is designed to handle even very thin foils. “This assures safe shipping and reduces the costs,” concludes Kreuzkam.
Although the design of a palletizer is as individual as the product to be processed, Kurre Systems always finds the perfect solution through close cooperation with its customers and expandable modules. Although the design of a palletizer is as individual as the product to be processed, Kurre Systems always finds the perfect solution through close cooperation with its customers and expandable modules.
