Case Conveyor Systems Overview and Types

Case conveyor systems are designed to transport cases, often in a warehouse or manufacturing setting, and can be customized to fit specific needs. They can be found in various industries such as food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, and e-commerce.

There are several types of case conveyor systems, including roller conveyor systems, belt conveyor systems, and pallet conveyor systems. Roller conveyor systems use rollers to move cases along a track.

Belt conveyor systems use a continuous belt to transport cases, while pallet conveyor systems are designed to transport pallets of cases. These systems can be used in a variety of applications, from packaging and labeling to inspection and shipping.

The design of a case conveyor system will depend on the specific requirements of the application, including the size and weight of the cases, the speed of the system, and the level of automation needed.

Recommended read: Wood Wine Cases

Case conveyor systems have a lot to offer in terms of efficiency and automation. They can reduce forklift traffic and manual labor, making your warehouse operations smoother and less prone to human errors.

Internal transport and palletizing systems are also available, which can help streamline your processes even further. These systems can be integrated into your case conveyor system to make it even more automated.

Automatic sorting and merging are just a couple of examples of the technological features that can be integrated into a case conveyor system. This is especially useful for larger warehouses where these operations are crucial.

Our automated warehouse solutions come with an internal transport and palletizing system for bins. This feature allows for efficient movement of inventory throughout the warehouse.

We also offer goods-to-person piece picking with conveyor systems, which enables totes of inventory to be conveyed to ergonomic workstations. At these workstations, pieces are removed from the inventory tote and transferred to the order container.

Goods-to-person case picking with conveyor systems is another feature of our solutions, where pallets holding cases are conveyed to ergonomic workstations. An ergonomic lift at the workstation supports worker ergonomics for safe and comfortable case picking.

Inventory pallets with residual cases are returned to the AS/RS automatically by the pallet conveyor system. This ensures that inventory is always accurately tracked and stored.

On a similar theme: In a Just in Time Inventory System Suppliers

Conveyors can significantly reduce forklift traffic in warehouses. This is especially beneficial in large warehouses where forklifts can be a major source of congestion.

Using conveyors can also minimize manual labor. This is because conveyors can automate many tasks, reducing the need for manual intervention.

Automatic sorting and merging can be integrated into conveyor systems to make the entire process more efficient. This is particularly useful in larger warehouses where accuracy is crucial.

Conveyors are highly flexible and can be used for all distribution channels. They can also serve as process buffers, helping to manage the flow of goods through a warehouse.

Conveyors can be used in conjunction with other conveyor technologies in processing or shipping applications. This allows for a tailored solution that meets the specific needs of a warehouse.

Intriguing read: Warehouse and Transportation Management System

Conveyors come in various types, each designed for specific applications and tasks. There's the belt conveyor, which uses a continuous belt to move products.

The roller conveyor, on the other hand, uses rollers to support and move products. It's often used in high-speed applications.

Chain conveyors use a chain to move products, providing a more rugged and durable option for heavy-duty use. They're commonly used in manufacturing and packaging facilities.

A case conveyor can come in any type of configuration that best suits your needs. Norpak Handling has a wide range of conveyor models available to suit your case conveying system requirements.

Gravity conveyors are a simple and common case conveyor solution, featuring lightweight constructions and being low cost and efficient.

Portable conveyors are another option for lighter duty applications, which can be folded into compact configurations for storage.

For applications that include loading and unloading cases from containers and trailers, an extendable solution is recommended, as they can be easily extended and raised or lowered.

Here are some common types of conveyor beds:

The Zone Route Network Pick is a discrete order picking system that optimizes order fulfillment by conveying order containers only to warehouse zones with picks. This system is used for distribution operations that need to pick, pack, and ship customer orders with more productivity, accuracy, and speed.

A different take: Order Picking Systems

The Zone Route system is based on a configuration that arranges the warehouse into picking zones, typically 4-16 in number. Each picking zone supports a specific SKU category, often based on velocity.

Workers remain in an assigned zone, focusing on picking a segment of the inventory located in a compact geography. In each zone, SKUs are staged on flow rack, shelving, and pallets, with zones slotted based on attributes such as family groups, velocity, or cube utilization.

The operational method involves routing the order container only to the zones where there are picks. To support this system, a conveyor network is provided to control the flow of order cartons into and out of the zones.

Here are some key benefits of the Zone Route Network Pick:

The conveyor network also accommodates replenishment and returns, providing real-time visibility, control, and insight. This system is modular, re-configurable, and expandable, with the ability to scale up or down as needed.

Understanding the key specifications of a case conveyor system is crucial for its effective operation.

Load capacity is a critical factor, as it determines the maximum weight of cases the system can handle.

Accumulation logic is another important consideration, as it affects how cases are stored and released.

Conveyor speed is a key parameter, as it influences the overall efficiency of the system.

Case feet per minute (CFPM) is a measure of the system's throughput, and it's essential to consider this when selecting a case conveyor.

Throughput is directly related to CFPM, and it's a critical factor in determining the system's overall performance.

The width of the conveyor is also an important consideration, as it affects the space required for the system.

The frame configuration and drive location are also important specifications to consider, as they impact the system's durability and maintenance requirements.

Here are the key specifications to consider when selecting a case conveyor system:

Decanting is a crucial step in the case conveyor system process, where cases are transferred from inventory pallets to totes for further processing.

At receiving, pallets are transferred to and stored in an automated storage and retrieval system (ASRS).

Pallets containing cases are then conveyed to a decant workstation where an operator removes the case(s) from the inventory pallet and transfers the contents of a case into a tote.

The pallet with residual inventory is conveyed back to the ASRS and placed into storage.

Decanting Systems are a crucial part of inventory management, and they can be implemented in various ways. Decanting with conveyor systems is one efficient method, where pallets are transferred to and stored in an automated storage and retrieval system (ASRS).

At receiving, pallets are transferred to the ASRS, where they're stored until needed. This automated process saves time and reduces manual labor.

An operator removes the case(s) from the inventory pallet and transfers the contents of a case into a tote. This is a straightforward process that requires minimal training.

The pallet with residual inventory is conveyed back to the ASRS and placed into storage, freeing up space for new inventory. This closed-loop system keeps inventory organized and easily accessible.

Decanting systems can be customized to fit specific business needs, making them a versatile solution for inventory management.

Intriguing read: Commodity Classification Automated Tracking System

Transporting boxes and products to 50 kg is a breeze with the right equipment.

Conveyor systems can handle cases, boxes, trays, and products of up to 50 kg max.

Cutting-edge box and case conveyor systems are designed to streamline material flow and optimize warehouse automation.

Innovative warehouse automation can be achieved with the integration of machines and connections to efficient intralogistics processes.

Conveyor systems can handle conveying, sorting, in- and out-feeding, buffering, and stowing materials and goods.

This ensures that your logistics keep moving efficiently, reliably, and quickly.

Scott's modular case conveyors offer a range of benefits, including fast start-up and minimised downtime on operating sites. Their range is designed around two key themes: Robustness & Flexibility.

Robustness is achieved through the use of mechanical components that can be reused and refitted as your business develops. This means you can easily adapt your system as your needs change.

The EvoLink control system is a decentralised control system designed for fast reconfiguration, supporting your growth immediately and at a lower cost. It's perfect for businesses that need to adapt quickly.

The EvoLink solution is 100% electric, IP20 and IP54 compatible, and can convey loads of up to 50 kg. Each component is pre-wired and tested in the factory for reduced downtime.

Astec Conveyor Systems are market leaders in the design and manufacture of case conveyor systems in the UK. They offer a range of systems, including simple lineshaft conveyor and high speed Zero Line Pressure (ZLP) systems.

Their systems can be constructed from mild steel (painted to a standard RAL colour of your choice) or S304 or S316 grade stainless steel.

Modular systems are a game-changer for businesses looking to increase agility and reduce downtime. Modular case conveyors, for instance, enable fast start-up and minimize downtime on operating sites.

These conveyors are designed with two key themes in mind: Robustness and Flexibility. Robustness is achieved through the use of mechanical components that can be reused and refitted as your business develops.

You can choose between a classic centralised control system and a decentralised EvoLink control system, which has been designed for fast reconfiguration and supports your growth immediately at a lower cost.

The EvoLink control architecture is based on four key components, which are designed to work together seamlessly. Here's a breakdown of each component:

The entire EvoLink solution is 100% electric, IP20 and IP54 compatible, and can convey loads of up to 50 kg with specific dimensions and power consumption. Most of the modules use 24 VDC for reduced power consumption and are very quiet.

Take a look at this: Shore to Ship Power Systems

In the UK, Astec Conveyor Systems are market leaders in designing and manufacturing case conveyor systems. These systems can range from simple lineshaft conveyor to high speed Zero Line Pressure (ZLP) systems.

Their case conveyor systems are designed to avoid product contact during accumulation, making them a reliable choice for various industries. Astec Conveyor Systems can also supply additional equipment such as right angled transfers and merge units.

Conveyor designs can be constructed from mild steel, painted to a standard RAL colour of your choice, or from S304 or S316 grade stainless steel.