Premier Automation Robotics

Robotic Drum Palletizing System

Project Summary and Challenge

A manufacturer of chemical products required an automated solution for loading 55-gallon drums onto wooden pallets. The Robotic Palletizing Cell features a FANUC M-410iC/500 robot that picks up the drums and places them onto the pallets.

Objective/Challenges:

Increase the efficiency of the palletizing process by automating it using a robotic system
Reduce the risk of injury to workers by minimizing their interaction with heavy drums and pallets
Position incoming drums into a repeatable location
Ensure repeatable pallet positioning and prevent pallets from shifting during the loading process
Ensure the safety of workers by preventing access and providing emergency egress options

Solution

The solution to the challenges outlined above involves the following:

Install a Fanuc M-410iC/500 4-axis robot with 3143mm reach and 500kg payload to palletize the drums
Utilize a pallet magazine capable of holding up to 17 pallets to provide a steady supply of empty pallets to the system
Design a Drum Centering Station to position incoming drums into a repeatable location
Use an outfeed conveyor with pallet squaring cylinders to ensure repeatable pallet positioning and prevent pallets from shifting during the loading process
Install muting light curtains at the entry and exit points of the cell to prevent unsafe access and meet safety requirements

Benefits:

Increased efficiency in loading drums onto pallets
Improved consistency in drum and pallet positioning
Reduced risk of pallets shifting during the loading process
Improved worker safety through the use of light curtains and access doors

Result:

The installation of the Robotic Palletizing Cell resulted in a significant increase in productivity and efficiency, while reducing labor costs and minimizing manual intervention. The system efficiently loads drums onto pallets, ensures worker safety, and provides consistent drum and pallet positioning. The appropriate safety measures implemented in the system ensure the safety of workers, making the facility a safer work environment.