Palletizer System (Conventional & Robotic) 1) System Types A) Conventional Layer Palletizer How it works: Cases/bags are arranged on a forming table; a layer pusher deposits complete layers onto the pallet. Best for: Very high speeds, uniform products, few SKUs. Speed: Cases: 25–60+ cpm (cartons) Bags: 20–40+ bags/min (with conditioning) Pros: Highest throughput, predictable patterns, rugged mechanics. Cons: Less flexible for SKU changes; larger footprint. B) Robotic Palletizer (4/5/6-axis) How it works: Robot arm picks product(s) and places to pattern; optional pre-layer table. Best for: Medium speed, frequent changeovers, mixed SKUs, multiple infeeds. Speed (single cell): Cases: 10–24 cpm Bags: 12–28 bags/min (higher with dual-pick/pre-layer) Drums/Pails: 4–8 units/min Pros: Flexible patterns, compact cells, easy recipe changes. Cons: Ultra-high speeds may need multiple cells or pre-layer tables. 2) What to Choose (Quick Guide) Throughput ≥ 30–40 cpm and single SKU → Conventional. Many SKUs, frequent changeovers, limited space → Robotic. Multiple lines to one palletizer → Robotic with multi-infeed or conventional with accumulation. Heavy/irregular items (bags, drums) → Robotic with tailored EOAT or conventional bag palletizer with conditioning. 3) Core Modules (Both Types) Infeed & Conditioning: alignment, turning, spacing; for bags—flattener/vibrator. Pattern/Forming: layer table (conventional) or robot pathing/pre-layer (robotic). Pallet Handling: pallet dispenser, centering, slip/top sheet dispenser. Outfeed: to stretch wrapper (turntable/ring/orbital), corner posts, pallet labeler. Safety: fencing, interlocks, light curtains/area scanners, E-stops. Controls: PLC + HMI recipes, automatic changeover, OEE/downtime logging. 4) End-of-Arm Tools (Robotic) Vacuum frame – cartons/cases, tight film bags. Clamp/finger bag gripper – powder bags; anti-sag plate. Fork/Tine – drums, pails, crates. Combo tool or auto tool-changer – quick SKU switches.