When containers break or leak inside the shipping case, leaking fluid contents can spread to other cases on the pallet, putting the entire pallet, and possibly other pallets, at risk. While the cost of repacking damaged pallets and managing returned shipments can be considerable, the greater cost comes as a result of customer complaints and dissatisfaction -- potentially leading to lost business. The new Wet Case Detector from OnTrack Automation removes damaged cases before they reach the palletizer.
How it works
Spring-loaded probe conductors, positioned between rollers, check the bottom of each case for moisture as it moves along the conveyor. When the probes make contact with moisture in the case material, the integrated HMI/PLC from B&R Industrial Automation triggers both audio and visual alarm alerts to an operator.
In a non-operator present environment, outputs can be connected to the main conveyor PLC to stop the line or deploy an automated rejection arm which is available from OnTrack as an optional upgrade. The system can also be programmed to gather production and case rejection data for line tracking, OEE and reporting purposes.
Benefits of installing a Wet Case Detector
The installation of an OnTrack Wet Case Detector is a simple and quick way to improve plant efficiency. It generates an immediate and measurable ROI while preventing damaged goods from reaching customers. Packagers who have installed the OnTrack Wet Case Detector have reported an immediate customer and distribution impact and ROI returns of up to 630% -- a less than 60-day pay back.
By detecting wet cases before they reach the palletizer, users experience immediate cost savings because fewer pallets need to be repacked. Further savings will be realized from fewer shipments returned from the supply chain.
Most important, by detecting wet cases before they leave the packaging line, end customers experience a 100% verified product integrity leaving the plant.
Simple installation
The Wet Case Detector installs easily on liquid or viscous material packaging lines. It operates from common 120 volt AC power, making it suitable for warehouses and other locations where higher voltage and 3-phase power is not commonly available. The system is housed in a compact, sturdy, 14 gauge stainless steel enclosure.
Key features
The system’s standard sensor bar accommodates typical case conveyor widths ranging from 16 to 22 inches; Larger and custom sizes are also available.
The system connects with all popular field buses via its integrated PLC/HMI with touchscreen control panel from B&R Industrial Automation, a global force in standards-based packaging automation.
The system’s light beacon emits an LED signal when a wet case is detected. It also emits an audible alarm signal with adjustable volume up to 95 dB and variable duration. It can be connected to the main conveyor control panel to automatically stop the conveyor when wet cases are detected
Applications to date
The system is in use by beverage packagers who utillize glass bottles and containers, especially breweries, wineries and distilleries. Juice and food manufacturers who utilize glass jars and containers with product packed in water based brine or liquid have also installed the system.
