Since the launch of Werner's new PSU component palletiser late last year, demand for the system has been considerable. Fifty units have been built for the German market and now the system is available in the UK through sole agent, RA Rodriguez. This compact, self-contained palletising system is a novel concept which meets the automation needs of OEMs in a range of sectors.

Although each system is inevitably supplied to suit a specific application, it is based on a series of standard elements each of which has been developed by IEF Werner.

As the company manufactures the entire system, full compatibility is assured between the pallet delivery, component handling and control systems.

It also ensures strict control of pricing and allows for a high degree of customisation to be accommodated if required.

The palletising system comprises two pallet stack positions - empty and full.

Empty pallets are stacked up to 700mm high on one of the two Posiart transport systems at the base of the unit.

This automatically aligns the stack with the lifting system which transfers the top pallet onto a location slide.

Under the direction of the PA Control System, the pallet is then indexed into position to receive the components; positioning accuracy is +/-0.05mm.

When full, the tray is transferred to a second stack on the corresponding Posiart system.

The PSU works equally well in reverse i.e for unloading trays of components.

The PSU is suitable for metal or plastic pallets up to 500mm x 600mm x 150mm with a maximum stack weight of 30 kgs.

Operating speed is 800 mm/s.

A typical cycle time is just 6 seconds and pallet changeover is virtually instantaneous.

Options include a handling system for filling and emptying the pallets and flat belt conveyors for handling heavier pallet stacks.