Packaging System Phase Two - Transferring

Once bottles and containers are loading on to an automatic packaging system - via an unscrambler, indexing conveyor, turntable or other method - they must be transferred along the line to accomplish the various packaging tasks.  Both power and non-power conveyor systems can be used to accomplish this feat consistently and efficiently.

Power conveyor systems are available in a number of different models and materials to automatically move product from packaging machine to packaging machine on an automated system.  From low profile conveyors to fit into tight spaces between machines to sanitary conveyors designed for washdown facilities, each of the conveyors can handle a wide variety of products and containers.  Conveyor guiderails play a large part in allowing a power conveyor to handle different bottle sizes and types.  Accomodations for width variations can be made by simply adjusting the guiderails in and out, limited of course by the frame and conveyor belt.  Tall, top heavy or other unique bottles may require a double rail system to add support as containers are transferred along the conveyors.  

 

Materials for conveyor systems include aluminum, stainless steel and HDPE.  Aluminum conveyors offer lightweight solutions and are often used for low profile systems where space is an issue.  Stainless steel conveyors offer a more durable solution for use in environments that may be slightly more harsh or for sanitary and washdown systems.  HDPE will most often be used when dealing with harsh products and chemicals that may have an adverse effect on metals.  HDPE conveyors are most often used to prolong the life of the conveyor system when bleaches, acids and other products are being packaged.

 

Power conveyors are manufactured for the specific products to be transferred and the space available for the packaging system.  They may include curved conveyor sections or inclines and declines if necessary to successfully move product from Point A to Point B.  The versatility of power conveyors makes these packaging machines an invaluable part of any packaging system.

Like power conveyors, non-power conveyor systems can be set up in a number of different formats, but the most common non-power conveyors are roller conveyors and skate conveyors, each of which are more or less self-explanatory.  Roller conveyors use set of aluminum or stainless steel rollers, lined up side by side to move items down the conveyor system.  Skate conveyors are similar except the rollers are placed by specifically spaced skate wheels.  Though non-power conveyors can move single items, they are most often used to move bundled products or products that have been packaged into a case or carton.  Non-power conveyors may also be used as one method of accumulating product after it passes through the filling machine, capping machine and labeling equipment.  Once accumulated on the roller or skate conveyor, the products may be manually packed into boxes or crates or onto pallets for shipping.

 

Of course, many packaging systems will use both power and non-power conveyors to accomplish their goals.  Unique situations may also require unique conveyor solutions.  For example, cooling conveyors and serpentine conveyors help molten and hot fill products cool while continuing to move along the packaging line.  The type of conveyor used will depend, as noted above, on the product, container and packaging environment.  However, many other factors, including production requirements and labor available will help to determine the optimal conveyor system for any given packaging line.  

 

For more information on conveyor systems, or for assistance in determining the best conveyor system for your packaging process, call a representative toll free today at 1-888-393-3693.