Can A Palletiser Be Purchased as OpEx rather than CapEx?

Posted on October 5, 2023 by Granta

The primary purpose of distinguishing between capital expenditures (CapEx) and operating expenditures (OpEx) in accounting is to allocate costs and determine how they impact financial statements and taxes. Typically, the purchase of a palletiser is considered a capital expenditure (CapEx) rather than an operating expenditure (OpEx) because it involves a significant upfront investment in a long-lasting asset that will provide value to the business over an extended period. CapEx is usually capitalized on the balance sheet and depreciated over its useful life.

However, there are scenarios where a palletiser’s purchase could potentially be treated as an OpEx depending on your specific accounting practices and circumstances. Here are a few considerations:

  1. Operating Leases: If you acquire the palletiser through an operating lease, the lease payments are typically treated as operating expenses (OpEx) rather than capitalizing the asset. In this case, the palletiser is not recognized as an asset on the balance sheet, and the lease payments are expensed as incurred.
  • Service Contracts: Some palletiser vendors may offer bundled packages that include not only the equipment itself but also ongoing maintenance and service. In such cases, the entire package cost, including equipment and services, may be treated as an OpEx. This approach would be more common in situations where the service component is substantial, and it’s challenging to separate the equipment cost from the services provided.
  • Accounting Policies: Your company’s accounting policies and practices, as well as applicable accounting standards, may influence how you classify the purchase. Some companies may have more flexibility in classifying certain expenditures as OpEx based on their internal accounting policies.
  • Tax Considerations: Depending on local tax regulations and incentives, there may be instances where it makes sense to classify a palletiser purchase as OpEx for tax purposes. However, this would typically require consultation with tax professionals and may not align with standard accounting principles.

It’s crucial to work closely with your finance and accounting teams, as well as consult with accounting experts or auditors, if necessary, to determine the most appropriate treatment of a palletiser purchase based on your specific situation and accounting guidelines. Keep in mind that how you classify the expenditure can have implications for financial reporting, tax treatment, and financial ratios, so it should be done in accordance with relevant accounting standards and legal requirements.

In summary, while the acquisition of a palletiser is typically considered to be a capital expenditure, by leasing a palletiser, it can then become an operational expenditure which brings with it certain tax advantages. The specific treatment may vary depending on your financial and accounting practices.

If you would like to know more about palletiser leasing, please contact us on 01223 499488 or helpline@granta-automation.co.uk. Or follow this link to read more about palletiser leasing and payback.  https://www.granta-automation.co.uk/about-granta/service-and-support/palletiser-leasing

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How Often Do Palletisers Break Down?

Posted on September 21, 2023 by Granta

The frequency of breakdowns for palletisers can vary widely depending on several factors, including the quality of the equipment, maintenance practices, the type of products being handled, and the overall operating conditions. Here are some factors to consider:

1. Quality of Equipment: The reliability of a palletiser can be influenced by the quality of the machine itself. High-quality, well-built palletisers from reputable manufacturers are likely to have fewer breakdowns than lower-quality machines.

2. Maintenance: Regular maintenance and servicing are crucial to preventing breakdowns. Palletisers that receive proper maintenance according to the manufacturer’s recommendations are less likely to experience unexpected failures.

3. Type of Products: The type of products being handled by the palletiser can affect its reliability. Some products may be more challenging to handle or may cause more wear and tear on the equipment, increasing the likelihood of breakdowns.

4. Operating Conditions: The environment in which the palletiser operates can also impact its reliability. Dust, humidity, temperature extremes, and other environmental factors can affect the machine’s performance and longevity. Robots and other equipment specified with extra, features like dust protection, low temperature ratings etc can usually overcome these challenges.

5. Operator Training: Adequate training of the machine operators is essential. Improper operation or setup can lead to breakdowns or damage to the equipment.

6. Age of Equipment: Older palletisers may be more prone to breakdowns due to wear and tear, outdated technology, and the unavailability of replacement parts.

To minimize the frequency of breakdowns, it’s essential to:
• Invest in a high-quality palletiser from a reputable manufacturer.
• Follow the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule and practices.
• Train operators to use the equipment correctly and safely.
• Provide a suitable operating environment for the palletiser.
• Consider upgrading or replacing older equipment if breakdowns become frequent and costly.

By taking these steps, you can reduce the likelihood of breakdowns and ensure that your palletiser operates reliably and efficiently.

Taking out a support contract at the time of purchasing a palletising system is also a good way to minimise break downs, as the support package will typically include regular site visits to check and maintain the system.

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How Easy Is ‘Easy Programming’ Palletiser Software? How Does It Differ To Traditional Palletisers?

Posted on September 20, 2023 by Granta

“Easy programming” palletiser software refers to software that is designed to simplify the programming and operation of palletising robots or machines. The ease of use can vary depending on the specific software and equipment being used, but the primary goal is to make the setup and configuration of palletising tasks more user-friendly and accessible to a wider range of users, including those without extensive programming or technical skills.

Here are some ways in which “easy programming” palletiser software differs from traditional palletisers:

  1. User-Friendly Interface: Easy programming software typically features intuitive, user-friendly interfaces with drag-and-drop functionality or graphical programming. This allows operators to create palletising patterns and routines without needing in-depth programming knowledge. Some easy programming software will auto generate stack patterns and you can simply select the stack pattern you require.
  1. Reduced Coding Requirements: Traditional palletisers often require complex programming codes, such as robotic arm movement sequences written in specialized programming languages. Easy programming software abstracts much of this complexity, allowing users to define palletising tasks with simple commands or visual cues.
  1. Rapid Setup: Easy programming software is designed to minimise the time it takes to set up and reconfigure palletising tasks. Traditional palletisers may require extensive programming and testing, which can be time-consuming.
  1. Flexibility: Easy programming software is often more adaptable to changes in production needs. Users can easily modify palletising patterns, product configurations, or other parameters without extensive reprogramming.
  1. Integration with Other Systems: Many easy programming palletiser software solutions are designed to integrate seamlessly with other automation systems, such as conveyor systems, barcode scanners, and warehouse management systems, to optimize the palletising process.
  1. Error Handling: These software solutions often include error handling and diagnostic features, making it easier for operators to identify and address issues quickly.
  1. Training Requirements: Easy programming software can reduce the training required for operators and technicians, as it doesn’t necessitate in-depth programming knowledge.

It’s important to note that the ease of use and capabilities of “easy programming” palletiser software can vary from one solution to another. Factors such as the complexity of the palletising tasks, the types of products being handled, and the specific software and hardware used will all influence how easy or effective the software is in practice. Organizations should carefully evaluate different options to choose the one that best aligns with their specific needs and production requirements.

This video shows an example of the Granta GA15 easy programming palletiser software.

 

If you would like to know more about the Granta GA15 easy programming software, then please do get in touch on 01223 499488 or contact us at helpline@granta-automation.co.uk.  We will also be very happy to arrange a free trial of your product on a palletiser if you require this.

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Robotic Palletiser vs Layer Former Palletiser

Posted on September 19, 2023 by Granta

Robotic palletisers and layer former palletisers are both types of automation equipment used in material handling and palletising processes within various industries, including manufacturing, logistics, and warehousing. Whilst they effectively serve the same purpose, they have distinct features, advantages, and disadvantages.

Robotic Palletiser:

  • Robotic palletisers use robotic arms with various end-of-arm tools (EOAT) to pick up single or multiples of items, cases, or bags and stack them onto a pallet in a specific pattern.
  • They offer high flexibility and adaptability since the robot’s programming can be changed to handle different product types and palletising patterns easily.
  • Robotic palletisers are suitable for handling a wide range of products, sizes, and weights.
  • They are ideal for businesses with diverse product lines or frequently changing packaging requirements.
  • Robotic palletisers can also be integrated into other automation systems for material handling and packaging.

Robotic Palletiser Advantages:

  • Flexibility and adaptability, can simultaneously palletise different product off multiple lines.
  • Efficient handling of various products and patterns.
  • Can be integrated with other systems.
  • Reduced manual labour and increased productivity.

Robotic Palletiser Disadvantages:

  • Initial setup and programming can be time-consuming if it is not an easy programming system.
  • Programming expertise required if it is not an easy programming system.

Layer Former Palletiser:

  • Layer formers are specialised machines designed to create complete product layers on pallets.
  • They are typically used for uniform products that are palletised in consistent layers, such as cases or boxes of the same size and weight.
  • Layer formers automate the process of creating layers by arranging products in a predetermined pattern.
  • They are efficient for high-volume production lines with consistent packaging.

Layer Former Palletiser Advantages:

  • High-speed and efficiency for uniform product palletising
  • Sometimes more compact floor footprint than a robotic palletiser for high speeds

Layer Fromer Palletiser Disadvantages:

  • Limited flexibility; not suitable for handling a variety of products or palletising patterns.
  • Less adaptability to changing production requirements.
  • May require manual adjustments for different product types.
  • More moving parts and higher maintenance costs
  • Often higher than a robotic palletising system

In summary, the choice between a robotic palletiser and a layer former palletiser depends on the specific needs and requirements of your production line:

  • If you have a diverse range of products, frequently changing packaging patterns, or require flexibility in your palletising process, a robotic palletiser is a better choice.
  • If your production involves high-volume, uniform products that are consistently palletised in specific patterns, a layer former palletiser can provide cost-effective automation.

Ultimately, the decision should be based on your production goals, budget, and the nature of your products. In some cases, a combination of both types of palletisers may be the most efficient solution.

If you would like to discuss your specific application in more detail, please contact us on 01223 499488 or helpline@granta-automation.co.uk.

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Can Palletiser Systems Work with AGVs?

Posted on September 12, 2023 by Granta

Yes, palletiser systems can work in conjunction with Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs) to automate and streamline material handling and palletising processes in warehouses and manufacturing facilities. This combination of technologies can enhance efficiency, reduce labour costs, and improve overall productivity. The two key ways in which AGVs are used to work alongside palletiser systems are shown below:

  1. Product Delivery: AGVs can be used to transport raw materials or finished products to and from the palletiser. They can pick up products from production lines, storage areas, or other locations and deliver them to the palletiser’s loading area.
  2. Pallet Transport: Once the palletiser has completed the stacking process, the AGV can transport the loaded pallets to designated storage areas or shipping docks. AGVs can navigate autonomously and follow predefined routes to ensure efficient transport.

There are many benefits to using AGVs in this way, and some of these benefits are outlined below:

  1. Integration and Coordination: The AGVs and palletiser system can be integrated into a centralized control system, allowing for seamless coordination and communication between these machines. This integration ensures that the right products are delivered to the palletiser at the right time and that the pallets are transported to their destination without delays.
  2. Flexibility: AGVs can be programmed to adapt to changes in production schedules, product types, and palletising patterns. This flexibility is valuable in environments where there is a need for frequent product changeovers or varying pallet configurations.
  3. Safety: Safety features such as sensors, cameras, and collision avoidance systems are incorporated into AGVs to ensure safe interaction with the palletiser and other equipment, as well as to protect workers in the vicinity.
  4. Efficiency and Labour Savings: The combination of AGVs and palletiser systems can significantly reduce the need for manual labour in material handling and palletising tasks, leading to cost savings and increased operational efficiency. They also reduce the need for multiple conveyors to transport product, thus creating further cost and space savings.

Overall, the integration of palletiser systems with AGVs is part of the broader trend toward automation and Industry 4.0 principles in manufacturing and logistics. This combination allows for smoother and more efficient operations, reduces the risk of errors, and enables businesses to adapt to changing demands more effectively.

If you would like to discuss your specific application in more detail, please contact us on 01223 499488 or helpline@granta-automation.co.uk.

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What is the Best Palletiser for use in the Food Industry?

Posted on September 12, 2023 by Granta

The “best” palletiser for use in the food industry can vary greatly depending on your specific needs, production volume, space constraints, and the type of food products you’re dealing with. There isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer. However, there are a several generic factors that are important to consider which are listed below.

  1. Type of Food Product: Different food products have varying shapes, sizes, and packaging requirements. Some palletisers are better suited for handling specific types of food, such as bottles, boxes, bags, or cans. There are multiple gripper types available to suit different applications and the type of gripper you will need will depend on the products attributes
  2. Throughput and Speed: Depending on your production volume, you’ll need a palletiser that can handle your required throughput. Collating technology and multi product gripping may be required for higher speed applications. This may involve picking and placing a row of product at a time, or picking and placing complete layers.
  3. Automation Level: Automated palletisers range from systems that require manual placing of empty pallets and removal of full pallets, through to fully automated cells that include automated pallet feeding and slipsheet placement, with full pallets being fed out of the cell, enabling the system to continuously run. The level of automation you choose will depend on your budget, available space, and labor resources.
  4. Footprint and Layout: Consider the available space in your facility and the layout of your production process. It is importance to consider infeeds and outfeeds to the palletiser, access requirements for existing machinery, and fork lift/pallet truck access for removing finished pallets of product from the system.
  5. Flexibility: The ability to handle various packaging configurations and adapt to different products can be important, especially if you produce a wide range of food items.
  6. Maintenance and Reliability: Look for a palletiser that is known for its reliability and ease of maintenance to minimize downtime. It is also important to choose a company that has a good support system available, including both on site and remote support options.
  7. Integration: Ensure that the palletiser can easily integrate with your existing production line equipment and software systems.
  8. Safety: Palletisers should adhere to safety regulations and have features that protect operators and prevent accidents.
  9. Future proof: Ensure that the system you choose is future proof and can be modified as your requirements change. A modular system is the best type of system for this.

Based on these factors, there are several types of palletisers commonly used in the food industry:

  • Robotic Palletisers: Robotic palletisers use industrial robots to pick, place, and stack products onto pallets. They are highly versatile and can handle various product types and sizes. Robotic palletisers are often used in industries with frequent product changes.
  • Layer Palletisers: Layer palletisers are designed to stack entire layers of products onto pallets at once. They are commonly used for products that are palletised in consistent layers, such as cases of beverages or boxes.
  • Bag Palletisers: These palletisers are specialised for handling bags of various sizes and shapes, such as sacks of flour, pet food, or fertilizer. They can use robotic arms or mechanical systems to stack bags onto pallets.
  • Case Palletisers: Case palletisers are designed to handle individual cases or boxes of products, often found in industries like food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, or consumer goods. They can be equipped with various end-of-arm tools, such as vacuum grippers or clamps. Row grippers and layer formers can also be used to enable the palletiser to lift multiples or complete layers of product at a time.
  • De-palletisers: While not exactly palletisers, de-palletisers are machines used to remove products or materials from pallets. They are often used in industries like recycling or food and beverage to unload products from incoming pallets.
  • High-Level Palletisers: These palletisers are typically used in industries with high production rates. They can stack products at high speeds and are often integrated into conveyor systems. High-level palletisers can be either robotic or conventional machines.
  • Low-Level Palletisers: Low-level palletisers are usually smaller and operate at lower speeds compared to high-level palletisers. They are commonly used in smaller production facilities or when cost considerations are a priority.
  • Mixed-Load Palletisers: These systems are designed to create mixed-load pallets with multiple product types or SKUs on the same pallet. They are commonly used in distribution centres and warehouses.

Remember that the best palletiser for your food industry needs depends on a careful assessment of your production line, the type of food products you’re working with, your budget, available space, and your desired level of automation. It’s recommended to reach out to manufacturers, discuss your requirements in detail, and potentially request demonstrations or references to find the most suitable palletiser for your specific situation.

If you would like to discuss your specific application in more detail, please contact us on 01223 499488 or helpline@granta-automation.co.uk.

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Problems with Robotic Palletisers

Posted on September 7, 2023 by Granta

Robotic palletisers are automated machines designed to stack and organise products onto pallets. While they offer many benefits, they may also come with potential problems and challenges. Here are some common problems associated with robotic palletisers, and the suggested solutions to overcome these problems.

  1. Programming Complexity
    Problem: Setting up and programming a robotic palletiser can be complex and time-consuming. It requires expertise in robotics and automation, and any mistakes in the programming can lead to operational issues.Solution: Invest in user-friendly programming interfaces and easy-programming software that simplifies the robot programming and enables your factory staff to reprogram the robot for new products and stack patterns.
  1. Product Variability
    Problem: Robotic palletisers may struggle with handling products of different shapes, sizes, and weights. They often require customization or additional tooling for various product types.Solution: Implement adaptive grippers and end-effectors that can handle a wide range of product sizes and shapes. Consider modular tooling that can be easily swapped for different products.
  1. Speed and Efficiency
    Problem: While robots are generally efficient, they may not always be as fast as needed for high-volume production lines. Speed limitations can lead to production bottlenecks.Solution: Optimize the layout of your production line to ensure a smooth flow of products to the robotic palletiser. Consider upgrading to faster robots if necessary.
  1. Maintenance
    Problem: Like any machinery, robotic palletisers require regular maintenance to ensure they operate smoothly. Unexpected breakdowns or downtime can be costly.Solution: Implement a proactive maintenance schedule with regular inspections and preventive maintenance tasks. Invest in high-quality components and robots with a reputation for reliability.
  1. Palletising Patterns
    Problem: Achieving optimal palletising patterns for different products can be challenging. Ensuring stability and proper weight distribution on pallets is crucial to prevent damage during transport.Solution: Utilise advanced software algorithms that can automatically generate optimised palletising patterns. Palletiser with easy-programming software will have this included in the software and your factory staff will be able to re-program stack patterns in just minutes.
  1. Product Handling
    Problem: Delicate or irregularly shaped products can be difficult to handle for robotic palletisers, potentially leading to product damage or misplacement.Solution: Invest in grippers and end-effectors with adjustable sensitivity and compliance to handle delicate products. Implement vision systems to improve product recognition and handling.
  1. Safety
    Problem: Robots in the workplace require strict safety measures to prevent accidents and injuries. This includes safety fencing, emergency stop systems, and ongoing safety training for personnel.Solution: Ensure compliance with safety regulations, including proper safety fencing, emergency stop systems, and safety training for personnel. Regularly review and update safety procedures.
  1. Integration
    Problem: Integrating a robotic palletiser into an existing production line can be complex, especially if the equipment and software are not compatible.Solution: Work closely with experienced system integrators to ensure seamless integration of the robotic palletiser into your production line. Choose equipment and software that are compatible with your existing systems.
  1. Cost
    Problem: The initial investment for a robotic palletiser can be significant, and the return on investment (ROI) may take some time to realize. Smaller businesses with limited budgets may find it challenging to justify the expense.Solution: Calculate the long-term ROI to justify the initial investment, it is well worth looking at the cost savings relating to intangible benefits as well then investigating this. Explore financing options or consider leasing equipment to spread out the cost. Look for grants or incentives that may be available for automation investments.
  1. Software and Control Issues
    Problem: Software glitches or control system malfunctions can lead to errors in palletising, causing delays and potentially damaging products.Solution: Keep software and control systems up to date with regular updates and maintenance. Invest in redundancy and fail-safe mechanisms to minimize the impact of software glitches.
  1. Maintenance Costs
    Problem: Maintaining and servicing robotic palletisers can be expensive, especially if specialized technicians are required.Solution: Negotiate service contracts with the equipment manufacturer or a trusted service provider to control maintenance costs. Train in-house staff to perform routine maintenance tasks. Typically, a good robot palletiser system with an industrial robot will last for many years with minimal maintenance costs
  1. Environmental Conditions
    Problem: Robots may be sensitive to environmental factors like dust, temperature fluctuations, or humidity, which can affect their performance.Solution: Create a controlled environment for the robotic palletiser if environmental factors are a concern. Use protective enclosures or clean rooms as needed.
  1. Operator Training
    Problem: Employees responsible for overseeing and maintaining the robotic palletiser must receive adequate training. Lack of trained personnel can lead to inefficiencies and downtime.Solution: Invest in comprehensive training programs for operators and maintenance personnel. Ensure that your team is well-prepared to operate and troubleshoot the robotic palletiser.
  1. Product Changeovers
    Problem: Switching between different product types can require reprogramming and adjustments, which can lead to downtime.Solution: Develop standardized changeover procedures and tools to minimize downtime during product transitions. Consider using quick-change tooling for flexibility.

Continuous monitoring, feedback, and improvement are essential to address these problems effectively. Regularly assess the performance of your robotic palletiser and make adjustments as needed to optimize its operation within your specific production environment.

As outlined above, whilst there are some problems that are associated with robotic palletisers, with good training, regular maintenance and a well-established integrator, these issues can be overcome or at least minimised.

If you would like to discuss your specific application in more detail, please contact us on 01223 499488 or helpline@granta-automation.co.uk.

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Can a Palletiser Palletise Product Off Multiple Production Lines?

Posted on August 1, 2023 by Granta

Yes, a palletiser can palletise products from two or more separate lines, commonly referred to as “dual-line palletising” or “multi-line palletising”. This is a standard feature in many industrial palletising systems and is used to increase efficiency, optimize palletising operations, and reduce the need for additional palletising equipment.

In dual-line or multi-line palletising, products from two or more independent production lines are conveyed to the palletiser through their respective conveyors, and the palletiser can handle the multiple lines simultaneously. Here’s how the process typically works:

  1. Separate Conveyors: Each production line has its own conveyor system that feeds products to the palletiser. These conveyors typically run parallel to each other and can be set up side by side.
  2. Product Identification: The palletiser’s control system can identify the source of each product based on its origin line. This ensures that products from Line 1 are palletised together separately from products from Line 2, etc.
  3. Palletising Pattern: The palletiser’s software is programmed with the palletising patterns for each product line. Each line may have its unique stacking arrangement or palletising sequence.
  4. Robotic Palletising: The robotic arm of the palletiser picks up products from the various lines and places them onto the pallets based on their respective palletising patterns. With dual-line palletising, depending on the specific system setup, the palletiser will typically alternate between picking products from Line 1 and Line 2, ensuring a balanced and efficient palletising process. The system can also be set up to give palletising priority to one lane or the other, or to palletise on demand.

Benefits of dual-line and multi-line palletising:

  • Increased Throughput: By handling products from two or more lines at the same time, the palletiser achieves a higher throughput, reducing overall palletising time.
  • Space Optimization: A dual-line or multi-line palletising system allows manufacturers to use the same palletiser for multiple lines, optimizing floor space and reducing the need for additional equipment.

It’s important to ensure that the dual-line/multi-line palletising system is properly designed, and to ensure that the gripper head on the robot is suitable for picking and placing the products from the lines. The palletiser’s control system and software must be set up correctly to handle the different lines without any collision or safety issues.

A key factor to consider when choosing a double lane palletising system is the speed; the speed of the system will be defined by the number of cycles the robot can do in a minute multiplied by the number of products it can lift per cycle. Some systems have row gripping which enables the system to pick and place multiples of product, for a better understanding of this see https://www.granta-automation.co.uk/news/how-many-boxes-or-bags-per-minute-or-hour-can-a-palletiser-palletise/.  It is very important to ensure that the speed requirements including any pallet moving and slipsheet placement between layers is met, as having a dual lane system does halve the maximum speed per lane of a single lane system.

If you are considering implementing a dual-line or multi-lane palletising system, it’s best to consult with palletiser manufacturers or automation experts. They can provide guidance on the most suitable setup for your specific production requirements and ensure smooth integration with your existing production lines.

If you would like to discuss your specific application in more detail, please contact us on 01223 499488 or helpline@granta-automation.co.uk.

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How Many Boxes or Bags Per Minute or Hour Can A Palletiser Palletise?

Posted on August 1, 2023 by Granta

The number of boxes or bags a palletiser can handle per minute or hour depends on several factors, including the specific model and type of palletiser, the size and weight of the boxes/bags, and the complexity of the stacking pattern. Palletisers are machines used to automatically stack boxes or bags onto pallets for efficient transportation and storage.

There are different types of palletisers, such as robotic palletisers and conventional palletisers, each with its own speed and capabilities. High-speed robotic palletisers tend to have a faster throughput compared to conventional palletisers.

There are also a wide variety of griper head types available on a robotic palletiser, and each of these is able to lift different amounts of product per cycle. Depending on the product and gripper size, robot grippers can pick many products at a time speeding up the throughput of the palletiser, so an accurate calculation of boxes/bags per minute/hour will need to be done for your application to get the specific cycle time for your application.

This table does however show some typical speeds that can be achieve using different gripper types.  They are only approximate average speeds and as each application is unique the accurate speeds would need to be calculated based on the application.

The speed that the robotic palletising system can run in products stacked per minute is calculated as follows:

cycles per min with the robot and gripper
X
no of products picked by the gripper each cycle
=
palletising speed in products per minute

To convert boxes/bags per minute (BPM) to boxes/bags per hour (BPH), you can use the following formula:

BPH = BPM * 60

So, for example, a palletiser running at 100 BPM can handle:

100 BPM * 60 minutes = 6,000 boxes/bags per hour

Keep in mind that these numbers are general estimates, and actual performance may vary depending on the specific palletiser and the application. Additionally, the manufacturer’s specifications will provide the most accurate information regarding the palletiser’s speed and capabilities.

There are also several other contributing factors to consider that can affect the speed in addition to the cycle time of the palletising system such inclucing;

  • Conveyor speeds
    Often the restriction in speeds can be the conveyor system feeding the palletiser. Advanced conveyor systems are required when you get over 25 products per minute in order to control the product flow into the palletiser. An advanced conveyor system will orientate the product correctly whilst keeping it sequenced, and will stop/start as required for feeding into the palletiser system. Whilst a palletiser might be able to run at significantly higher speeds it is essential to get the conveyor system feeding the palletiser correct to enable the optimum performance of the palletising system.
  • Pallet feeding
    Another restriction in speed is the feeding of finished pallets out of the system and the feeding of new pallets into the system. A high speed palletising system will need to have an auto pallet feed system, where the new pallets can be fed into the cell without the palletising system having to stop.  This is often done by installing a auto pallet feeder which can be loaded form outside the palletising cell, and will then feed the emptly pallets into the cell via a conveyor system.  Filled pallets will also need to be able to leave the palletising cell without the palletiser having to stop palletising.  They is typically done using pallet conveyors and light curtains, which enable the pallet to safely leave the palletising cell without the palletiser having to stop.
  • Slipsheet placement
    Another restriction on the cycle time of a palletising cell is the time needed for slipsheet placement. Each slip sheet that is placed creates a break in the palletising process, and reduces the cycle time per hour by the amount of slipsheet placement/time taken to place the slipsheet per hour. Slipsheet placement therefore needs to be taken into account in any cycle time calculations.

If you could like help with calculating cycles times for your process, please contact us on 01223 499488 or helpline@granta-automation.co.uk.

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Posted in Auto Palletiser, Automated Container Unloading, Automated Palletising, Bag Palletiser, Box Palletiser, Container Destuffing, Container Destuffing Palletising, Container Unloading Palletising, GA15 Palletiser, Palletiser - Granta GA15 Palletiser System, Palletising, Robotic Palletising | Tagged , | Comments Off on How Many Boxes or Bags Per Minute or Hour Can A Palletiser Palletise?

What Are The Benefits of a Modular Palletiser System?

Posted on August 1, 2023 by Granta

A modular palletising system offers several benefits that make it a popular choice for various industries. Here are some of the key advantages:

  1. Flexibility: The modular design allows for easy customization and configuration to match specific production requirements, product types, and palletising patterns. Companies can choose the appropriate modules and arrange them in different ways to achieve the desired palletising solution.
  2. Scalability: Modular palletisers can be easily scaled up or down to accommodate changes in production demands. As business needs evolve, additional modules can be added to increase throughput or reconfigured to suit new production layouts.
  3. Cost-Effectiveness: The modularity of the system enables companies to invest in only the necessary components, avoiding unnecessary expenses on features that may not be needed. This cost-effectiveness is particularly beneficial for smaller operations or those with varying production volumes.
  4. Easy Integration: These systems are designed for seamless integration with existing production lines and processes. The plug-and-play nature of modular components simplifies installation, reducing downtime during setup.
  5. Versatility: Modular palletising systems can handle various product types, sizes, and weights. With the ability to swap out end-of-arm tooling and adjust settings, the system can accommodate different products without major reconfiguration.
  6. Maintenance Efficiency: Individual modules can be easily serviced or replaced when needed, streamlining maintenance efforts and minimizing downtime. This is especially advantageous in industries where uptime is critical.
  7. Future-Proofing: As technology advances and industry requirements change, modular palletisers can be upgraded or enhanced by adding newer modules or integrating advanced software and controls.
  8. Reduced Footprint: The flexibility of modular palletisers often allows for more efficient use of floor space, making them suitable for facilities with limited space.
  9. Enhanced Safety: Modular palletising systems come with built-in safety features, ensuring compliance with industry regulations and reducing the risk of accidents during operation.
  10. Quick Deployment: Due to the pre-designed and tested nature of modular components, these systems can be deployed more rapidly than fully customized palletising solutions.
  11. Improved Productivity: The adaptability and efficiency of modular palletisers contribute to enhanced productivity and optimized palletising processes, resulting in increased throughput and reduced manual labour requirements.

The benefits of a modular palletiser system make it an attractive choice for various industries, including food and beverage, consumer goods, pharmaceuticals, logistics, and more. By leveraging modularity, companies can design and implement palletising solutions that align precisely with their specific needs, thereby improving overall production efficiency and cost-effectiveness.

To find out more about modular palletising systems, or if you would like to discuss your application in more detail, please contact us on 01223 499488 or contact us at helpline@granta-automation.co.uk.

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Bag Palletiser

Bag Palletiser

Barrel Palletiser

Barrel Palletiser

Box Palletiser

Box Palletiser

Crate Palletiser

Crate Palletiser

Tray Palletiser

Tray Palletiser

Posted in Auto Palletiser, Automated Container Unloading, Automated Palletising, Bag Palletiser, Box Palletiser, Container Unloading Palletising, GA15 Palletiser, Palletiser - Granta GA15 Palletiser System, Palletising, Robotic Palletising | Tagged , | Comments Off on What Are The Benefits of a Modular Palletiser System?