What types of depalletizers are there and which one is right for you?

When it comes to optimizing the efficiency and productivity of your filling line, selecting the right depalletizer is an important decision. Understanding your production needs, evaluating the various types of depalletizers available, and considering factors such as space and automation are essential for making an informed choice. This blog provides an overview of the different types of depalletizers and how they work.

1. Understanding your production needs

The operating speed

Before you head out looking for depalletizers, it is important to determine how fast you need your products or containers moving now and for the coming years. The last thing you want is to search for a new depalletizer after just one year of operation because the current one cannot meet your demand.

Analyzing product types and sizes

Matching the right product type to the appropriate depalletizer is crucial for efficient operations. Clearly understanding the types of packaging you need to handle now and in the future will guide your choice. By knowing the specific container types you need to depalletize, you can select the most suitable depalletizer to meet your current and future needs.

2. Types of Depalletizers

Semi-automatic Depalletizer

Semi-automatic depalletizing is a process that requires only one operator. The semi-automatic depalletizer is loaded by moving one layer of packaging onto the machine. The operator then raises the platform, which moves the products into the twist rinser at a speed of 50 cans per minute.

The semi-automatic depalletizer is ideal for relatively low-speed filling lines and is best suited for a single type of packaging. However, it cannot handle fragile packaging like glass.

The Semi-automatic has a maximum capacity of 3.000 cans per hour.

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Can Depalletizer

The Can Depalletizer is a more automated solution for the start of your filling line. This depalletizer can be categorized as a sweep-off depalletizer. The main advantage of a sweep-off depalletizer is that it is capable of unloading many types of packaging, such as cans, cardboard, and PET. The Can Depalletizer is an automatic machine that does the work for you.

After loading the pallet into the depalletizer, the only action required is to press start. Once activated, the depalletizer will remove the top frame and move the slip sheets with its vacuum system. The slip sheets will be placed onto the slip sheet holder, and the depalletizer will sweep off two layers per minute. After the process is complete, the pallet can be unloaded from the depalletizer, and the cycle can start again.

The Can Depalletizer is ideal for more automated filling lines.

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Glass depalletizer

The Glass Depalletizer, like the Can Depalletizer, is a more automated sweep-off solution for the start of your filling line. The biggest difference between the two is that the Glass Depalletizer can handle heavier types of packaging, such as glass.

A full pallet of glass containers can be loaded onto the roller track, which rolls the pallet into the depalletizer. After closing the door and pressing start, the Glass Depalletizer begins sweeping the glass containers into the filling system. All tier and top sheets between each layer are picked up with a vacuum holder and moved to the tier sheet holder.

The Glass Depalletizer is ideal for more automated filling lines.

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Semi-automatic depalletizer

Can Depalletizer

Glass Depalletizer

3. Space and container distribution

Make the Depalletizer fit and distribute the containers

To ensure the depalletizer integrates seamlessly into your filling line, it’s crucial to work with the right supplier and partner. The depalletizer is a large machine that requires expertise and careful planning to position correctly. A supplier like Zomerdijk Engineering can assist you in designing the optimal placement of your depalletizer within the production line. We can also help with the distribution of containers into the filling line using equipment such as lowerator for glass and twist rinsers for cans. Their experience ensures that the depalletizer operates efficiently and effectively within your overall system.

4. Conclusion

Choosing the right depalletizer for your filling and packaging line depends on your current needs and future goals. If you are looking for a low-speed operation, the semi-automatic depalletizer is a straightforward option. However, if you plan to operate at higher speeds in the future, the automatic can or glass depalletizer would be the better choice.

Ultimately, it is important to partner with a company like Zomerdijk Engineering, which can assist you with the design and layout of your filling line to ensure the depalletizer is optimally positioned.