Material handling technologies are being designed to give manufacturers more flexibility as products move across packaging operations.
In this edition of On the Line, we look at the latest conveyors, equipment support, and motion technologies designed to keep products moving across the line.
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AMC Automation targets single-piece flow with new conveyor system
Product mixes continue to change, requiring material handling systems to manage different products moving across the same line.
Coesia’s AMC Automation introduced a Zero-Pressure Accumulation Conveyor System that uses independently controlled zones to move products without contact. The modular system can adapt to different product sizes and changing layouts while using run-on-demand technology to help reduce energy consumption.
“What we see more and more, especially with e-commerce and packaging, is single-piece flow, where parts are different from one to another,” said Xavier Le Gros, general manager at AMC Automation. “Zero pressure permits the system to actually handle all on a single-piece flow and less damage.”
→ See it in action
Designing for change: How modular conveyors keep packaging lines moving
Packaging lines need to accommodate changing products, formats, and production requirements without requiring a complete redesign.
Our material handling report explores how modular conveyor systems can give OEMs more flexibility to modify layouts and support future changes. We explore how configurable conveyor platforms and interchangeable components are designed to help equipment adapt as production needs change.
→ Download the report
mk North America uses QR codes to simplify conveyor support
Access to equipment information can play an important role in keeping conveyors running after installation.
mk North America is adding unique QR codes to its conveyors, giving machine builders and end users direct access to manuals, approval drawings, recommended spare parts, and other information tied to the equipment.
“There is, in my opinion, no quicker way to be your own service manager aside from going up and scanning that QR portal,” said Scott Blais Jr., sales and business development manager at mk North America.
→ Read more
SEW-EURODRIVE expands PxG servo lineup with economy series
Machine builders also need components that match the performance requirements of different material handling applications.
SEW-EURODRIVE expanded its PxG planetary servo gear unit portfolio with three economy performance classes designed for standard industrial applications, including packaging equipment, carton erectors, and material handling systems.
“The PxG economy series gives machine builders more flexibility to select the performance their machines actually need while maintaining the quality, engineering support and long-term reliability they expect from SEW-EURODRIVE,” said Anecia Hoffield, servo product manager at SEW-EURODRIVE, in a statement.
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Final takeaway
Material handling is about more than moving a product from one point to another. Conveyors, equipment support, and motion components are giving OEMs more options to keep products moving while adapting to changing production needs.
