This was part of a Cartesian pick and place robot solution for handling packs of fresh food.
Referred to by UPM as ‘SYSCON’ conveyors, the simplistic ‘groove’ design with side channels made from high molecular, weight polyethene (HMWPE), appealed to Pacepacker, because it can be deployed in hygienic food processing areas. Ideal for transporting unpackaged primary products, this HMWPE conveyor caters to every type of product handling requirement, from raw fish, meat and poultry to sliced vegetables, biscuits and confectionery and fresh and frozen produce.
“Client requirements in the food sector can be both challenging and unique,” said Pacepacker’s business development manager Paul Wilkinson. “Like us, UPM Conveyors specialise in creating bespoke automation solutions. Their HMWPE conveyor system is just one of the design types we’re increasingly starting to integrate into our robotic pick and place systems, as it meets food manufacturers stringent hygiene requirements.”
When assessing conveyor options for food manufacturers, Paul cited flexibility, robustness and food safety as key criteria. “This food-grade conveyor from UPM Conveyors is one of the few systems on the market that meets all of these specific needs and allows us to continue giving customers trouble-free and application-appropriate choices. As a company, they have more than 40 years expertise in the conveyor market and their HMWPE conveyor has been operating successfully the world over for over two decades.”
The sides of the conveyor are made of HMWPE with stainless steel support frames. This makes it fully compliant with FDA regulations and being IP69K rated can withstand high pressure and close proximity washdowns.
Having fewer parts also means there’s less to go wrong, which also reduces maintenance time. As a result, UPM offers customers a zero maintenance guarantee.