Start, Connect and Finish Packaging Systems with Power Conveyors
Power conveyors are the circulatory system of an automatic packaging line. They allow a packager to move bottles from one machine to another, in almost any path desired or required. But as discussed below, on an automatic system, conveyors can be used for more than just transportation.
An automatic packaging line that includes a bottle rinser, liquid filler and spindle capper would lose a large amount of efficiency without power conveyors to move bottles from one machine to the next. The time spent transporting bottles by hand would negate much of the time saved by automatically rinsing, filling and capping bottles. In addition to saving time through bottle movement, conveyors can be laid out in a specific manner to save operators time as well. For instance, a conveyor system can start near bottle storage, making it quick and easy to replenish the empty containers needed for the line. From there, the power conveyors need not run in a straight line either, as curved conveyors, transfer turntables and other methods can be used to direct bottles as needed, perhaps ending the system near a shipping door or packing stations, again saving time and effort for those doing the shipping prep work.
Conveyors can also be used to introduce bottles to a packaging line, collect them at the end of a line and help to perform a multitude of tasks within the packaging line. Loading and laning conveyors can be used to allow rows of bottles to be introduced to the main power conveyor and taken to the rinser, filler, capper or other equipment. These loading conveyors are ideal for non-round bottles that may jam turntables or bottle separators, offering an alternative to the same. Cooling conveyors can take different forms, but all will typically be used between the filling and capping machine when preparing a molten or hot product. The cooling conveyor allows the product time to recover from the heating process, often assisted by a fan system, and helps to avoid damage to the bottle, cap or product that might be caused by the heat. Diverting conveyors within a system can help separate products when necessary, or act as a reject station to remove bottles that do not meet the required specifications after moving through some packaging process.
Finally, end-of-the-line conveyors, sometimes called accumulation conveyors, may be used by some packagers to collect finished product or even assist in the packing and shipping of products. Again, while other accumulation options exist, such as an accumulation turntable, depending on the products, project and the desire of the packager, an accumulation conveyor may be the best solution.
Whether setting up a new packaging line or looking to add efficiency to existing packaging machinery, power conveyors can help in a multitude of ways. To learn more about power conveyors, or to consult with a Packaging Specialist to get maximum efficiency from a new or existing conveyor system, contact Liquid Packaging Solutions today.