Pallet Handling Conveyors

Pallet handling conveyors move loaded and empty pallets between production, packaging and automated handling processes.

Systems can be configured using roller conveyors, chain conveyors, transfer units, turntables and other pallet handling equipment, either as standalone conveyor sections or integrated with palletisers, de-palletisers, wrapping machines, strapping machines and automated storage systems.

The conveyor arrangement is designed around the pallet, load, required throughput and how each pallet needs to move between processes.

Powered roller conveyors are used to transport pallets between different stages of a production or packaging line. They can be installed as individual conveyor sections or combined with other pallet handling equipment as part of a larger automated system.

Roller spacing, conveyor width and direction of travel are specified around the pallet being handled, ensuring the pallet is correctly supported as it moves through the system.

Roller conveyors can also be combined with transfer units, turntables and positioning equipment where pallets need to change direction or move between different sections of a line.

Chain pallet conveyors transport pallets on parallel strands of driven chain rather than across a series of rollers. They can be used where the pallet construction, support points or direction of travel makes chain transport more suitable.

The number and position of the chain strands are specified around the pallet being handled and the support required as it moves through the system.

Chain conveyors can also be combined with roller conveyors to create 90° pallet transfers, allowing pallets to move between conveyor sections running in different directions.

Pallet handling systems can incorporate transfer equipment where pallets need to change direction, orientation or move between different conveyor lines.

90° chain and roller transfer units move pallets between conveyors running in different directions, without necessarily changing the orientation of the pallet itself.

Turntables and rotating platforms rotate the pallet where its orientation needs to change before the next stage of the process.

Pallet shuttles can transfer pallets between separate conveyor positions as part of a larger automated handling system.

The equipment used depends on the required pallet route, available floor space and the machinery the conveyor system needs to connect with.

Automated equipment often requires a pallet to arrive in the correct position before the next machine cycle can begin. Pallet centring and positioning equipment can be incorporated where this is required.

Pallet accumulation can also be built into the conveyor system where loads need to wait between processes. This is particularly relevant where connected machines operate at different cycle times.

The conveyor layout and controls can then manage pallet movement between each stage of the line while providing the required accumulation between machines.

Pallet conveyors can connect individual machines and processes as part of a complete automated handling system.

Conveyor systems can be integrated with palletisers, robotic palletising systems, de-palletisers, strapping machines, pallet wrappers, stretch hooding equipment and automated storage systems.

The conveyor arrangement is configured around the required production sequence, including how the pallet enters and leaves each machine, where it needs to stop and how it transfers between processes.

The conveyor controls coordinate pallet movement with the machinery connected to the system. Pallets can be detected and controlled as they move between conveyor sections and through the different stages of the line.

Where conveyors connect with palletisers, wrappers, strapping machines or other automated equipment, signals are exchanged between the machines so pallet movement follows the required operating sequence.

For conveyors being added to an existing line, the current controls and surrounding equipment can be assessed as part of the integration.

Pallet conveyor systems can be configured around the pallet type, load dimensions and weight, required throughput and available production space.

Roller and chain conveyors can be combined with transfers, turntables, shuttles and positioning equipment to create the required pallet route. Conveyor heights, changes in direction and accumulation can also be incorporated into the system layout.

Phoenix Handling Solutions provides installation and commissioning for pallet conveyor systems throughout the UK and Ireland.

Systems can be installed as part of a new automated handling line or integrated with existing conveyors, machinery and controls.

Ongoing support includes servicing, preventative maintenance, technical support and spare parts for installed equipment.