SINAMICS G115D distributed drive system specifically designed for conveyor applications
Comprised of the drive, motor, and gearbox, this new distributed drive system is available as a complete solution for motor-mounted and wall-mounted horizontal motion control conveyor applications. With its new SINAMICS G115D, Siemens is introducing a new, compact, and powerful drive system specifically designed for horizontal conveyor applications. The drive system comprises the motor, drive, and gearbox in one unit and is offered in two versions — wall-mounted and motor-mounted. The SINAMICS G115D drive system is characterized by a robust design with a high IP protection class (up to IP66 / UL Type 4X) and is suitable for use in harsh environments. Thanks to its compact dimensions, the SINAMICS G115D can be easily installed in confined areas. The drive system can also be operated reliably over a wide temperature range of -30 to 55 degrees Celsius (-22 to 131 degrees Fahrenheit), enabling operation in deep freezing applications. SINAMICS G115D is suitable for applications in intra-logistics and airports, as well as in the automotive and food and beverage industries. Its power ranges from 0.37 to 7.5 kilowatts (1/2 to 10 hp) for wall-mounted applications and 0.37 to 4 kilowatts (1/2 to 5 hp) for motor-mounted applications. The drive system can be put into operation quickly and easily with comprehensive integration into the Totally Integrated Automation (TIA) portal including Startdrive commissioning software or the SINAMICS Smart Access Module (SAM) web server for Wi-Fi setup and diagnostics. To be prepared for digital transformation and to enable cloud-based analysis, SINAMICS G115D is integrated into the entire MindConnect portfolio and is compatible with MindSphere applications such as Analyze MyDrives. Thanks to Profisafe, the SINAMICS G115D has Safety Integrated in the form of STO (Safe Torque Off) SIL2, which standardizes and facilitates the certification process. For flexibility in terms of installation, service, and maintenance, the solution is equipped with a plug-in connector and flexible connection possibilities. The device is particularly suitable for interaction with SIMATIC controllers such as the S7-1200 or ET200 for motion control. Siemens offers warranty extensions for SINAMICS G115D through its Service Protect package. As part of this service package, an additional one or two-year warranty extension may be purchased for failure coverage. The package offers simplified processing under normal warranty conditions for an extended period.
Flex-Line Automation, Inc. to shine on national television
Flex-Line Automation, Inc., a family-owned business in southern Illinois, has been selected to feature on a national television program. For 17 years the World’s Greatest TV Show has been taking viewers on a fast-paced tour around the world, by providing behind-the- scenes footage and interviews of some of the most amazing and unique companies, products, services, technologies, people, and travel destinations the world has to offer. On 2/17/24 they will be showcasing the remarkable journey of Flex-Line Automation, Inc. and the legacy of excellence it has cultivated over the years. Flex-Line Automation, Inc. is an example of integrated innovation in the manufacturing industry and demonstrates unwavering commitment to customer service and creative thinking. Rhett Rinne founded Flex-Line Automation with his parents and wife Cathy in the early 1980’s when he saw an opportunity for his rural ingenuity to provide excellent material handling solutions for manufacturers. His daughter, Lauren, joined the company upon graduation. The company has become well-known in the industry for creative conveyor and robotic solutions. The segment on Flex-Line Automation, Inc. will provide an insightful look into the behind-the-scenes operations, the dedication of our employees, and our ongoing commitment to advancing innovation in rural America. “We are extremely honored and excited to be featured as one of the World’s Greatest!…,” said Cathy Rinne, president and majority owner of Flex-Line Automation, Inc. “Our selection is a testament to the hard work and creativity of our team. We are excited for this opportunity to represent the mission and values that make Flex-Line Automation stand out in our field.” The episode featuring Flex-Line Automation, Inc. is scheduled to air on Saturday February 17, 2024 at 1:00pm CST on BLOOMBURG TV. We encourage our suppliers, customers, collaborators, friends, and supporters to tune in and witness the remarkable story of our family business.
Cimcorp to feature end-to-end automation for fresh food distribution at MODEX 2024
MODEX 2024 booth #B6019, attendees will discover how Cimcorp’s automation helps grocery retailers, bakeries, and dairies improve speed, sanitation, and sustainability Cimcorp, an intralogistics automation specializing in fresh food handling and tire-handling solutions, will exhibit at MODEX 2024 booth #B6019. The company will showcase its comprehensive range of automated storage and order-picking systems, specifically designed to optimize fresh and perishable food distribution for grocery retailers, bakeries, and dairies. MODEX attendees will have the opportunity to explore Cimcorp’s technology through interactive demonstrations and discussions with company experts. As a trusted automation partner, Cimcorp helps grocery retailers transform warehousing operations through efficient product handling. Cimcorp’s modular systems combine gantry robots, intelligent software, AS/RS, AGVs, conveyors, shuttles, palletizers, and more to optimize operations from end to end, boost productivity, and improve overall performance. Additionally, Cimcorp offers continuous maintenance through its Success Services—including spare parts, training, and 24/7 support—to help customers secure a lifecycle of 20 years or more for their automation technology. Throughout the show, MODEX attendees can meet with Cimcorp representatives to discuss their biggest operational challenges and explore how Cimcorp’s solutions: Modernize order fulfillment for fresh produce, dairy products, and baked goods Minimize lead times and maximize freshness for perishable foods Save costs and time by retrofitting existing facilities Support supply chain sustainability efforts Ensure 100-percent uptime, backed by lifetime support Notably, Cimcorp will highlight its flexible, modular solution for retrofitting existing distribution centers with automation. The solution enables rapid installation in any existing facility footprint and allows grocery retailers to introduce automation modules based on present needs, with the ability to scale as the business grows. “We’re excited to highlight our end-to-end automation at MODEX 2024! Automation is the future of fresh food distribution, and our unique solutions make it easier than ever to get started with automation in a way that is quick, cost-effective, scalable, and sustainable,” said Adam Gurga, National Manager of Grocery and Retail Partnerships, Cimcorp. “Equipped with Cimcorp technology and support, our clients can future-proof their operations and delight their customers with the freshest products for years to come.”
ProVeyance Group debuts new conveyor pulley solutions at MODEX 2024
ProVeyance Group will be exhibiting at MODEX 2024 from March 11th through March 14th at Georgia World Congress Center in Atlanta, Georgia BOOTH #13818. ProVeyance is a North American manufacturer of advanced conveyance components and subsystems for package and material handling applications that go to market through its Woodsage and Ashland brands. The company will be introducing its new Conveyor Pulley product line at the event. ProVeyance’s Woodsage is a supplier of high-quality, precision-manufactured rollers for conveyor and sortation systems. The brand manufactures specialty steel rollers and roller assemblies, including tapered, grooved, motor-driven, sleeved, and precision-fabricated tube products for niche applications. The Ashland brand manufactures and assembles conveyor systems, sub-systems, and related parts and accessories. Ashland offers a standard line of gravity rollers, skatewheel, telescoping gravity, flexible gravity and powered belt conveyors, ball transfers, and tables, along with a complete selection of accessories. “Along with our well-established product lines, I am excited to have the opportunity to introduce Conveyor Pullies as the newest addition to our component products offering stated Tim Carpenter, President & CEO. “Our focus is to deliver the highest quality, conveyor pullies, at industry-best lead times, while ensuring maximum customer satisfaction through our streamlined customer service process.” Visit ProVeyance at Modex Show 2024, where we have more conveyor solutions than ever before. You’ll get a sneak peek at our new Conveyor Pulley offering and the ability to speak with an experienced representative.
Kadant acquires KWS Manufacturing Company
Kadant Inc. (KAI) announced it has completed the acquisition of KWS Manufacturing Company, Ltd. (KWS) for approximately $84 million in cash, subject to certain customary adjustments. The acquisition was financed primarily through borrowings under Kadant’s revolving credit facility. KWS is a manufacturer of conveying equipment for the bulk material handling industry. The company manufactures screw conveyors, screw feeders, slide gates, and bucket elevators for process industries, including the food, chemicals, and wood industries. Located in Burleson, Texas, with approximately 165 employees, KWS had revenue of $45 million for the trailing twelve months ended September 30, 2023. KWS will become part of Kadant’s Material Handling reporting segment. “We are pleased to welcome our colleagues from KWS to the Kadant family,” said Jeffrey L. Powell, president and chief executive officer of Kadant. “Our acquisition of KWS expands our respective product portfolios and enhances our internal capabilities. With our shared focus on bringing highly engineered customer solutions to process industries and our past successes working together, we believe KWS is an excellent fit with Kadant.” William C. Mecke, president of KWS, commented, “We are proud of the leading position KWS has established in the screw conveyor market. Our reputation for quality products and excellent service fits well with Kadant’s culture and values. We look forward to being a part of Kadant and leveraging opportunities to increase value for our customers and other stakeholders.” Conference Call Kadant will hold a conference call and webcast on Monday, January 29, 2024 at 1:00 p.m. eastern time to discuss the acquisition. To listen to the call and view the webcast, go to the “Investors” section of the Company’s website at www.kadant.com. Participants interested in joining the call’s live question and answer session are required to register by clicking here or selecting the Q&A link on our website to receive a dial-in number and unique pin. It is recommended that you join the call 10 minutes prior to the start of the event. A replay of the webcast presentation will be available on the Company’s website through March 1, 2024.
Dorner appoints new Business Development Manager
Dorner has hired Dave Giffels as Business Development Manager. Giffels will be working with the sales team to grow Dorner’s industrial and automation conveyor business into new markets and customer bases. Giffels joins Dorner after spending most of his career in automation sales, including 12 years with Bosch selling palletized conveyor systems. His experience spans across the material handling industry including work with manufacturers, integrators, channel partners, and customers. “Dorner has a long, distinguished history and has developed a reputation as a company that knows how to make conveyor systems the right way,” Giffels said. “I look forward to getting to work with this well-established brand on the manufacturer side again and get out into the field with customers and salespeople.” One of the first initiatives Giffels will be working on is incorporating a solutions-based sales approach in which salespeople will work with customers and channel partners to understand their operations before making recommendations based on each user’s specific goals.
Achieve precision product movement with the new DualMove Pallet System Conveyor
Dorner, a conveyor technology, has introduced the new DualMove Pallet System conveyor. This product excels in many applications, including – but not limited to – electronics, appliances, automotive, and battery production. Joining Dorner’s collection of innovative pallet systems, the DualMove utilizes twin-strand timing belts to precisely place, orientate, and transfer pallets to workstations for robotic or human interaction. DualMove completes the portfolio of Dorner’s pallet system offering, providing a more cost-effective option for those needing to move products safely and securely. DualMove is a fully configurable conveyor with seven different pallet lengths and widths and several accessory modules, allowing you to customize it to your unique requirements. Because of the variety of pallet sizes, it can carry a load of up to 100 lbs. per pallet, making it perfect for small to medium-sized appliances and electronics that require assembly and packaging processes to be completed. DualMove is easily configurable with several options that help end users achieve the production goals needed. Both regular and heavy load corners allow for seamless navigation of pallets. Accessory modules such as lift and transfer, lift and locate, and lift and rotate allow DualMove to prioritize getting products where they need to be on time and in the correct position. Diving into the standout attributes and benefits of the DualMove: Extruded Aluminum Frame: Increasing flexibility with a sturdy framing with an industry-standard T-slot Low Product Lead Time: Dorner’s production process is designed to get solutions to customers faster than the competition. For standard DualMove products, you can expect an industry-best lead time of 20 days or less. Larger T10 Timing Belt: The DualMove has been outfitted with a larger T10 timing belt that allows for increased load capacity and strength. Flexibility of Automation Sensors or Equipment: The DualMove can be equipped with automation sensors and modules to meet product requirements. Engineered Excellence: DualMove is designed with the end user in mind by promoting easy installation and configuration based on unmatched flexibility in construction, utilization, and process matching. Take the next step in your automation journey with the DualMove Pallet System – where robust strength, unparalleled versatility, and innovative engineering combine to elevate your production.
Cisco-Eagle announces strategic acquisition of Trinity Controls
Cisco-Eagle, a material handling systems integration company has announced the acquisition of Trinity Controls, an innovative controls engineering company located in Birmingham, Alabama. “This acquisition is a significant milestone in for both companies,” said Cisco-Eagle President and Chief Operating Officer Bryan Gauger. “Trinity’s expertise in creating efficient and reliable control systems aligns with our commitment to delivering outstanding value to our customers and helps us expand our ability to serve industrial automation customers of all types.” Established in 2005, Trinity specializes in PLC (programmable logic controls) engineering. It focuses on design, programming and PLC panel fabrication for automation projects in the manufacturing and distribution sectors. Trinity is highly experienced in conveyor systems, material handling, heavy machinery and motor control applications. “With Trinity’s exceptional talent and track record, Cisco-Eagle is better positioned to address the needs of our clients and stay ahead in a rapidly changing automation landscape,” said Gauger. This acquisition transfers Trinity Controls operations to Cisco-Eagle, forming the Cisco-Eagle Systems Technology Group. Trinity’s staff will join the family of Cisco-Eagle employee-owners. “Our culture is built on empowered employees who all own shares in the company. I’m thrilled to welcome Trinity’s staff to our family and look forward to our journey together,” said Gauger. “We are excited about the opportunities for developing more advanced and integrated solutions,” said Tim Norwood, founder of Trinity. “Our combined expertise, experience and ability to create solutions will let us serve our industrial automation customers even better.” Norwood will continue his leadership as Cisco-Eagle’s Director of Systems Technologies. The company will continue its work with a variety of clients throughout the industry in the material handling and industrial automation space.
Creform to feature several of its products at 2024 Assembly Show South
Creform Corporation, a manufacturer of unique products for the design and building of material handling structures and AGVs, will showcase AGVS, gravity roller conveyors, workstations, carts, and flow racks in booth 863, at the 2024 Assembly Show South, May 1-2, 2024 Nashville, TN. Highlighting the exhibit will be gravity roller conveyors and an AGV which can control up to 50 courses with 128 commands each via HMI touch screen and built-in RFID for traffic control. The Creform System consists of over 700 components including plastic-coated steel pipe, fittings, and accessories for building AGVs, flow racks, carts, workstations, and other material handling structures. The company has over 15 gravity roller conveyors, including Placon and skatewheel. Gravity roller conveyors are effective for difficult material handling challenges because their superior construction and wide plastic wheels accommodate a broad range of applications while being noticeably quiet. AGVs, from simple bolt-on units to sophisticated low-profile tuggers. Systems can be simple loops for kit cart delivery to plant-wide material delivery that are managed by Creform’s traffic control system. Units have a variety of load ratings, configurations, and power sources. Flow racks are designed and built as single-lane parts feeders to supermarket systems for kitting. As with all Creform flow racks, capacity, size, and configurations are all custom-designed for the application. Carts, from small general-purpose push carts to model-specific kitting carts are Creform specialties. They are built using a system of 28 mm and 42 mm plastic-coated steel pipe and metal joints and can be configured for ESD (anti-static) applications. Creform workstations are built for single-person use to multi-person assembly cells. Workstations can be configured for a stand-up or a sit-down position and can be built and designed on wheels or stationary. The Creform System is used to create an array of material handling and efficiency-enhancing devices and is a proven component in continuous improvement and lean manufacturing programs. The company partners with customers in developing and enhancing these programs.
LOBO Systems revolutionizes sortation super hub efficiency with innovative conveyor system application
LOBO Systems, a provider with its evolved scaffolding system, has recently partnered with one of the leading users of automation in the world. This collaboration aims to address a critical operational challenge in sortation plants; accessing and maintaining motors beneath the conveyor systems. The global company has a requirement to access and maintain the motors underneath each conveyor system within its hubs and super-hubs. These motors drive the automated system, ensuring the efficient operation of sites. A breakdown in any of these motors could result in significant downtime and require a substantial allocation of resources to resolve the issue, typically involving the hiring of scaffolders. Admittedly, the usage of a scaffolding company would also resolve the issue faced however, this would result in a major increase in downtime for staff onsite, not to mention the cost implications of hiring in. The benefit of the LOBO System is that any staff member can be certified, providing they attend a LOBO certification course and pass an examination. This not only minimises downtime but also presents a comprehensive and cost-effective solution to the company. Having members of staff ready to go onsite, once an issue arises, ensures they can be resolved at maximum efficiency. In the first instance, LOBO delivered an online product demonstration to showcase the system, to highlight its unique safety aspects and discuss potential requirements. After a successful meeting, the LOBO Sales Team created technical drawings to bring the ideas to life (see images). “LOBO is thrilled to work closely with such a key-player within the sortation and automation industry” shares Robert Bokros, CEO of LOBO Systems. “This collaboration underscores the team’s capabilities and speaks volumes about our access platform system.” Rob adds.
TAWI announces new Mobile Lifting and Conveying solution for freight container unloading
TAWI, the inventor of the vacuum lift (also known as a vacuum tube lifter) has launched a new, portable vacuum lifter designed to be used inside of any ocean freight or box truck to reduce manual lifting of materials during the unloading process. This solution enables a more flexible workforce by reducing the need to team lift heavy objects while also minimizing the opportunity of injury. This is a faster, safer, and easier material handling method when compared to individual or team lifting of materials by hand. Capable of lifting materials up to 110 lbs (50 kg), TAWI’s Container Unloader is comprised of a vacuum lifter integrated with an operator platform and conveyor. With its trigger style controller, the operator can lift and move product without exerting any lifting force and at a faster rate than performed manually. The Container Unloader features a patented jib arm for low overhead spaces which is capable of horizontally gripping packages or materials to remove them from the top of a container or box truck. The unit is free-standing, completely mobile, and powered by either 3-phase electrical or optional battery pack for cordless mobility. Operators can use the remote control to drive the unit as well as the controls on the control panel. This mobilization makes it so that operators can maneuver the Container Unloader in and out of docks and shipping containers as well as to move around your facility or to other facilities in your organization,. “Many businesses are seeing workforce issues in today’s complex economy. This can include locating, training, and retaining qualified material handling employees,” states Nick Hajewski, Global Marketing Director for TAWI. “A vacuum lift reduces this issue of locating human capital by reducing the number of material handlers needed to perform an existing task – especially when team lifting is required. It also opens these heavy lifting applications up to employees not physically capable of manual handling such weights, as the lift does the lifting for the operator – all the operator needs to be able to do is squeeze the control handle. So that’s the secret –less labor required, faster performance due to a lack of physical fatigue, and at the end of the day, everyone is safer because they are not physically lifting the materials themselves. In trials we are seeing a reduction of employees in container unloading operations by 25%, while cutting the time to unload containers in half. This doubles the capacity of existing loading docks and reduces the dependence on hard to find labor”
Dorner & Garvey combine expertise to unveil the AquaGard GT Conveyor in booth C-1455 at PACK EXPO 2023
If you are looking for a sure bet in Las Vegas, it’s the AquaGard GT, a new conveyor system that combines the strengths of Dorner and Garvey®, both Columbus McKinnon brands. The AquaGard GT leads an impressive lineup of conveyors in action in booth C-1455 at PACK EXPO 2023, September 11-13, at the Las Vegas Convention Center in Las Vegas. Dorner is a global manufacturer in conveyor automation system design, manufacturing, and integration. Garvey is a recognized leader in the conveyor and accumulation industry, serving customers of all sizes primarily in the food, beverage, pharmaceutical and household product industries. The AquaGard GT is a meticulously designed infeed and outfeed conveyor ideal for accumulation-type applications to prevent bottlenecks in industries such as packaging, bottling, dry food processing, and part handling. All components (except motors) are either stainless steel or FDA-approved plastics, which are ideal for operating in environments that require wipe-down or occasional washdown cleanings of the conveyor. The AquaGard GT integrates features and benefits such as powered transfer units, flush side tails, and pre-engineered transfer modules, among others that in-house machine builders cannot match. The conveyor is competitively priced and comes with a short 10-day lead time. At PACK EXPO 2023, the AquaGard GT will be operating in a fully functional loop with Infinity™ and Bi-Flow™ accumulation tables from Garvey. A versatile machine, the Infinity uses Garvey’s patented technology to accumulate and sort unstable products at high speeds into a single or multi-lane configuration. The Bi-Flow uses opposing conveyor movement to create a buffer for product accumulation in a small footprint. The loop also includes Dorner’s FlexMove Helix and Wedge conveyors which allow vertical product movement to maximize a smaller footprint. This demonstration illustrates the seamless integration Dorner and Garvey can bring to industries worldwide to maximize production in accumulation-type applications. Show attendees will see a second operating loop highlighting the DCMove belted and the 2700 Medium Duty conveyors. DCMove conveyors provide a streamlined approach to conveyance, which more industrial-focused material handling applications call for in their equipment. Helping achieve that goal is the conveyor’s painted steel frame, which includes the right amount of strength and agility for material handling applications. The second portion of this loop is the 2700 Medium Duty Conveyor, which adds an extra boost in load capacity to carry heavier products for various industrial automation and packaging applications including palletizers, multi-lane processing, case- and tray-handling and end-of-line packaging. A third operating loop linking two 3200 Series conveyors with Activated Roller Belt (ARB) technology, a belted Edge Roller Technology (ERT), a FlexMove Side Acting Merge Module and a Powered Side Guide showcases Dorner’s package-handling capabilities. Conveyors with ARB technology are perfect for moving boxes and packages in merging, diverting and aligning applications. They use low- and high-friction angled rollers within the belt to help smoothly guide and align items. ERT platforms employ Dorner’s patented Edge Roller gear-drive technology to move product smoothly for pacing packages, bags and boxes. The FlexMove Side Acting Merge Module is a fully mechanical design to easily merge products from two lanes into one on FlexMove conveyors. Finally, Dorner’s Power Side Guide positions a compact 2200 Series belted conveyor on its side to create a simple pneumatic side plow guide that can pull or eliminate gaps as needed. PACK EXPO attendees can see several other conveyor systems on display, including a fourth operating loop highlighting Dorner’s sanitary platforms. The AquaPruf VBT (Vertical Belt Technology) conveyor, designed to move bulk products in straight-up 90° sanitary applications, features a proprietary staggered sidewall belt designed to increase pocket capacity and improve product release. The AquaGard LPZ Conveyor can be configured with one or two fixed angle points that allow the conveyor to accommodate a variety of height and angle requirements. Lastly, the AquaGard Modular Belt Conveyor features a center bearing to eliminate friction. It can carry a heavier load and allows four curves to be driven by a single motor, which saves valuable floor space as the conveyor can make tight turns around existing machinery and equipment without being hindered by extra motors. Finally, Dorner will feature the versatility of the low profile 2200 Series in its own operating loop. The 2200 Series features a stronger, single-piece frame design that reduces the overall number of needed stands. The frame is a Universal T-Slot compatible with industry-standard hardware, making attaching accessories and guiding fast and simple. The 2200 Series loop moves product through 90° turns as it diverts items quickly and accurately into various lanes with the use of Precison Move technology. For pallet movement Dorner will showcase the Shuttle ERT250, which uses rollers to move pallet conveyors smoothly with no friction. Rounding out the show will be a demo of Columbus McKinnon’s newest acquisition montratec and its intelligent monorail shuttle system which will be expanding in more markets soon.
Dematic names Mohamed Vaid Senior Vice President Business Solutions P&L, Americas
Dematic announced the appointment of Mohamed Vaid to Senior Vice President, Business Solutions Profit & Loss (P&L), Americas. In this role, Vaid will oversee the project execution team for the Americas region, deliver excellence in project execution for customers, and partner closely with all functions within the organization to enable future success for Dematic Americas. “Mohamed was a natural choice for this position, as he’s exemplified strong leadership within the organization over the past four years,” says Mike Larsson, Executive Vice President, Americas. “With a strategic mindset and an unwavering dedication to success, his appointment ensures that Dematic will continue to excel and deliver exceptional projects and solutions for our customers.” Prior to this new role, Vaid served as Dematic Americas’ Senior Vice President, Customer Service, where he facilitated steadfast operational benefits for Dematic customers and ensured support throughout the entire lifecycle of their operations. “I am excited to take this next step in my journey with Dematic, now managing a new team with strategic project execution at the forefront of all my work,” says Vaid. “The execution phase of our work is the lengthiest and most critical part of our duties, and I look forward to further supporting our customers throughout the process.” Vaid joined Dematic in 2019 as Vice President, Global Solution Development. Before joining the organization, he garnered extensive professional experience driving global revenue with cross-functional teams over the course of his career, including executive roles with General Electric, United Technologies, ALJ Toyota, and Saudi Cable Company. A graduate from Harvard Business School, Vaid holds an MBA and a bachelor’s degree in commerce, finance, and management information systems from the University of Virginia. He is a certified Six Sigma Black Belt for excellence in professional leadership. Vaid will continue to be based out of Dematic global headquarters in Atlanta.
Add efficiency with Edson’s Case Management Solutions in Booth C-3833 at Pack Expo 2023
Edson, a ProMach brand, is taking its decades of proven case packing expertise and applying it to help automate other parts of the packaging process. Edson will be demonstrating its strengths with RPC erecting and automatic product settling in booth C-3833 at PACK EXPO 2023, September 11-13, at the Las Vegas Convention Center. Edson has been an industry-leading manufacturer of case and tray packing solutions for the converted paper, diaper, and nonwoven markets for decades. Now, they’re utilizing their automation expertise to help other industries. The RP-200 Fully Automatic RPC Erector uses high speed servos to accurately and consistently form trays, making it an ideal solution for produce, protein, and several other industries that use RPC style trays. The RP-200 is a compact machine that takes up very little floor space. It can be easily moved within a facility or to different locations where the work is centered. This is especially helpful in the produce industry where picking and processing is seasonal and tends to occur in different locales. The machine features an ergonomic easy load, single feed-in magazine to facilitate fast loading with minimal handling. The RP-200 can accommodate both standard and custom tray sizes with speedy, easy changeovers. Edson will also be showcasing their WRC Rotary Case Settling Conveyor, which is designed as an on-the-go settling solution that simultaneously transports and settles cases. The advantage the WRC brings to customers is an all-in-one settling and conveyance solution that can transport up to 100 cases per minute without slowing production. The machine brings added versatility as it can operate as a standard conveyor with the settling function turned off. The compact WRC is available with either a 3 or 6-foot-long option. To see how the RP-200 Fully Automatic RPC Erector and the WRC Rotary Case Settling Conveyor can add speed, efficiency, and safety to your packaging process, visit Edson in booth C-3833 at PACK EXPO 2023, September 11-13, at the Las Vegas Convention Center.
Multi-Conveyor builds an Ultra-Controlled Custom Stainless 24VDC MDR
Multi-Conveyor recently built this multi-sectional stainless steel, wash-down rated, 24VDC MDR (motor-driven roller), conveyor system for a food application. The system is a combination of straight running and curved MDR with an incorporated 90° case turner and pop-up reject section. The customer required maximum product flow control. Multi-Conveyor’s electrical team used photo eyes and reflectors across incremental targeted locations to precisely detect and engage product stop and start motion. In the video, Multi-Conveyor removes one box of product to show how the system senses the opening, then triggers prior sections of MDR to activate and move the product forward to close the gap. Likewise, the guide rail prevents the product from going beyond the conveyor frame – providing even more control. 24VDC power supplies and drive cards are housed in stainless steel boxes mounted on the roller conveyor frames. Each drive card controls two drive rollers – one per section. The drive cards operate using standard accumulation logic, allowing the conveyor zones to remain full during production. A seamless transition transfers boxes from the roller section to a 90° dual strand or dual lane case turner. Opposing belt speeds rotate cases to be accepted into an elevator ahead where cases are lifted onto a palletizer (that section is not shown). NOTE: Multi-Conveyor does not build gravity roller or stationary roller systems. They specifically build custom, wash down, or sanitary 24VDC motor-driven roller systems on an individual project basis.
Haver & Boecker Niagara offers Make and Hold and Stocking Agreement programs for improved convenience
Haver & Boecker Niagara offers Make and Hold and Stocking Agreement programs for screen media and wear parts. The programs provide mining and aggregates customers options for short lead times, pricing stability, and simplified inventory management. “We put customer service first, which is why we’re one of the only manufacturers in this industry to offer a Make and Hold program,” said Karen Thompson, president of Haver & Boecker Niagara’s North American and Australian operations. “Programs like this give producers the assurance of timely deliveries at a price they can budget for at the beginning of the year. In addition, they can virtually eliminate the challenges of inventory management.” Under the Make and Hold program, Haver & Boecker Niagara stocks products in quantities and prices agreed upon at the beginning of the year. The product is produced and packaged in a pre-determined quantity so that it can be shipped the same day the order is placed. Once an order is shipped, the product is automatically replenished in preparation for the next time the customer requires it. A Stocking Agreement — or blanket order — the program is also available as an alternative for customers interested in a one-time annual agreement. Prices are locked in at the beginning of the year for a predetermined quantity of product. Customers draw on their stock throughout the year as required, and pay per shipment. Stocking Agreement shipments are shipped the same day the order is placed. Both programs are an opportunity for operations to ensure product availability and price stability and are particularly beneficial for products that may otherwise have long lead times.
Automated Parcel Infeed Solutions from Endura-Veyor Inc
Endura-Veyor, Inc.’s specialization in bulk material handling extends to the bustling world of E-Commerce and Logistics. Providing custom Parcel Infeed Solutions that establish maximum efficiency at the very start of each operation, Endura-Veyor is actively helping customers manage rapid flows of inbound goods that optimize a wide range of downstream processes. Serving applications in Reverse Logistics, Last Mile Delivery, Return Goods, Sortation, Warehousing, and more, our team of specialists is dedicated to creating a user-friendly, agile, ergonomic process to unload and transport inbound parcels, packages, and goods. Our equipment and versatile systems initiate singulation, control product flow, reduce labor dependency, and accelerate productivity. Whether you’re looking to manage higher volumes of inbound parcels after consolidation or to automate your infeed, sortation, or returns process, our Parcel Team specialists will ensure that your unique needs are fulfilled. To get started, explore our top automated solutions that have successfully transformed our customer’s operations by bolstering product management, efficiency, productivity, and flow control. If there are customizations that we can make to enable seamless integration or to accommodate your product type and flow, please get in touch with us!
Jungheinrich AG Commits to Strategic Collaboration Utilizing Configura as an All-in-One Plant-Design-Solution for the Company’s Warehouse and Automation Projects
Jungheinrich AG chose Configura to be a strategic partner for the development of various product and system configurators for highly complex customer solutions for its logistics systems division. The aim is to jointly establish an all-in-one plant-design solution for customer projects which covers Jungheinrich’s entire process from initial planning to calculation and the creation of a bill of materials. “Configura has officially been awarded the contract as the central software solution for the ‘System CPQ’ topic at Jungheinrich, which covers our fully automated intralogistics solutions and several other products,” said Dr. Florian Kuzmany, Head of Business Tools Sales Warehouse & Automation Projects at Jungheinrich. The cooperation between Jungheinrich and Configura began in 2020, starting with a pilot project for the configuration of automated pallet racking systems. With the latest development in this strategic collaboration, further racking systems, as well as materials handling components, will be added to Configura’s CET Material Handling planning software, providing Jungheinrich’s sales department with an efficient, intuitive, and cross-product project planning solution. “We value Jungheinrich’s continued commitment to Configura,” said Rich Trahey, VP Sales & Marketing at Configura. “This strategic collaboration enables Jungheinrich to take full advantage of our software ecosystem—enabling them and their network of partners to concept and engineer warehouse systems with speed, accuracy, and efficiency.”
LogiMAT 2023: Interroll presents new High Performance Conveyor Platform (HPP)
LogiMAT 2023: Interroll presents a new High-Performance Conveyor Platform (HPP) for courier, express, and parcel service providers. Following the example of its globally successful Modular Conveyor Platform (MCP), Interroll is launching a modular conveyor solution that meets the specific robustness and throughput requirements of courier, express and parcel (CEP) service providers. The new High-Performance Conveyor Platform (HPP)—a powerful addition to Interroll’s sortation solutions in particular—can significantly increase large and small distribution centers’ productivity, capacity, and energy efficiency. As part of Interroll’s comprehensive platform strategy, the HPP primarily uses proven technical products that have already proved themselves hundreds of thousands of times with users. The new offering will be on display for the first time from April 25–27, 2023, at Interroll’s LogiMAT trade fair stand (Hall 1, Stand K41) in Stuttgart, Germany, where visitors will also be able to experience the company’s platform strategy for material flow solutions in a playful way. The popularity of online shopping is generating an ever-increasing quantity and variety of goods that need to be transported and sorted in the distribution networks of CEP service providers worldwide. The number of parcels processed by corresponding conveyor and sorting systems in the largest 13 countries is set to rise from 159 billion in 2021 to 256 billion in 2027. Interroll’s automatic sortation solutions have played a key role in mastering these material-handling challenges for over 20 years. More than 500 sorters have been deployed globally by industry leaders such as Amazon, DHL, FedEx, UPS, Hugo Boss, Inditex (ZARA), and Zalando as well as postal services. “For our innovation course, we have been consistently leveraging the benefits of our platform strategy for many years. The latest example is the new High-Performance Conveyor Platform (HPP), which we developed based on our many years of industry expertise in the CEP market. It offers system integrators and courier, express, and parcel service providers important added value in achieving their business goals,” explains Jens Strüwing, Executive Vice President Products & Technology at Interroll. “In addition to the maximum flexibility and proven product quality of this modular system of freely combinable conveyor modules, these are above all the energy efficiency, ease of use, and speed with which automation projects can be implemented. In combination with a corresponding service offer, productivity in large and small parcel centers can be significantly increased in this way—for new installations, but also for retrofit projects.” Fast project implementation through digital processes The Interroll Layouter can be used, for example, to clearly design and plan complete HPP system concepts on a computer and implement them virtually. The solution drastically reduces the effort, planning time, and, therefore, project duration. It also makes for more informative and greatly simplified presentations and decision-making processes for users. At the same time, the standardized modules reduce the time required for installing and implementing solutions. What’s more, the seamless processing of data from the Interroll Layouter in enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems at production sites enables short delivery times. As with Interroll sorters, customers are supported with consistent and agile project management. The new conveyor platform consists of a large number of standardized line and curve modules that can be freely combined to meet the respective customer requirements. These include, for example, straight conveyor modules and modules for inclines and declines. The rigidity has been increased by one-third compared to the MCP. The robustness of the platform allows loads of up to 50 kilograms per meter, while the maximum conveying speed is 2.5 meters per second. Depending on the dimensioning and the goods transported, a throughput of up to 10,000 units per hour is possible. The solution can process a huge range of goods to be sorted, including cardboard boxes, small packages, padded envelopes, manila envelopes, and polybags. Energy-efficient drive technology, simple start-up, and maintenance Depending on customer needs, conveyors based on this platform are driven by gear or drum motors, which offer an efficiency of around 90 percent and enable a quiet and productive working environment with very high throughputs. When using conveyor lines with a central drive, the belt is tensioned from just one side, which significantly simplifies startup and maintenance. The design of the side guides is also well thought out in terms of construction. Thanks to their symmetrical and modular structure, they use only a few standardized components for the left and right conveyor sides. In addition, the overlapping design creates closed transitions from one conveyor line to the next, preventing transported goods from getting stuck at the transitions. The module integrates conveying and sorting The functional core of the HPP is the innovative Interroll Multibelt Switch (MBS). The module combines conveying and sorting functions in a unique way. By seamlessly overlaying the straight-line and lateral movements, the conveying goods are diverted onto additional conveyor lines at a constant speed in the conveyor either straight ahead or on two sides. This method ensures not only a gentle and safe transport process but also a very high speed and throughput values of over 10,000 units per hour. With the Interroll MBS, customers can further increase the capacity of their distribution centers through a higher degree of automation, based on the High-Performance Conveyor Platform. This applies not only to conveying presorted goods in the direction of or behind large sorting systems, such as those used in major distribution centers; even in smaller, customer-oriented package centers with few destinations now being constructed in many places, the automation solution can greatly increase work productivity and economic efficiency. In addition, the MBS can be used as a gateway to automatic sorting for applications that need only a few destinations. The HPP will go into production in Europe in the second quarter of 2023, and in America and Asia in 2024.
New improved Vacuum Grippers from COVAL with communications interface
COVAL offers manufacturers a range of vacuum grippers suitable for handling of parts of various sizes, weights, and materials. This gripper range has been extended with the latest CMS HD series multistage vacuum pumps, developed by COVAL. With this enhancement, the new generation of grippers meets the demands of Industry 4.0 with greater robustness, communication, and modularity. COVAL’s range of vacuum grippers is based on two complementary solutions. The CVGL is characterized by its lightness and great adaptability. It is available as standard in several lengths, power ratings, and gripping interfaces. The MVG, on the other hand, offers the possibility of configuring the gripper to allow it to be perfectly adapted to each application by determining the length, width, gripping interface, and vacuum generator while guaranteeing extreme lightness. It offers a tailored solution that integrates perfectly with handling robots. HEAVY DUTY at the Heart of COVAL Vacuum Grippers COVAL’s new generation of vacuum grippers now incorporates the latest CMS HD series of vacuum pumps. These pumps have a heavy-duty design for high reliability even in harsh environments (IP65), capable of ensuring 50 million cycles. A factor of the pump’s longevity is its modular design which allows specific configurations and targeted maintenance of specific parts to optimize repairability. As a result, the new generation of CMS HD multistage pumps adds to the vacuum grippers´ reliability and adaptability. Vacuum Grippers Become Intelligent The new COVAL vacuum grippers offer a choice of three multistage vacuum pump configurations, depending on the needs of the integrator or end user: non-piloted, piloted, and communicating. The communicating configuration, which makes the vacuum grippers easier to use and parameterize, is obtained by integrating the CMS HD VX version of the multistage pump. The VX pump version features an IO-Link communication interface, compliant with the international IEC 61131-9 standard, for fast and cost-effective installation, continuous diagnostics, centralized parameterization, and efficient communication with higher-level protocols (EtherNet/IP, PROFINET, EtherCAT, etc.). It can also support a Human Machine Interface (HMI) with NFC interface, enabling the operator to read and modify setup parameters and diagnostics from a mobile device (Android or iOS) using the dedicated COVAL Vacuum Manager app. With these pump capabilities, the new generation of COVAL vacuum grippers become even more versatile and perfectly compatible with the robot systems at the heart of Industry 4.0. A Vast Range of Applications Thanks to their great modularity and ease of integration in all contexts, CVGL and MVG vacuum grippers can be found in many industries: packaging, plastic, metal, and wood for handling porous and non-porous objects. Qualities that make the difference: • Solutions adapted to each process • Configurable vacuum grippers • Robustness, longevity, and economy of use • Vacuum grippers with communications capability for Industry 4.0