Automated Pallet Handling Conveyor Systems by GLOBAL

Pallet conveyor systems are material-handling systems that move products or components on standardized pallets through manufacturing, assembly, inspection, storage, or packaging operations. They may use roller, chain, belt, or transfer mechanisms and are commonly connected to robots, machines, sensors, and PLC controls. Automation can manage routing, accumulation, positioning, and handoffs so pallets move consistently with the required production pace.

Four widely used conveyor categories are belt conveyors, roller conveyors, chain conveyors, and overhead conveyors. Belt conveyors use a continuous belt for products or lighter loads; roller conveyors support loads on rollers; chain conveyors move heavy or palletized loads using chains; and overhead systems carry items above the floor. The right choice depends on pallet weight, base design, routing, accumulation, environment, and transfer requirements.

A pallet conveyor is a conveyor designed to transport loads that sit on pallets, carriers, or skids. It provides controlled movement between workstations, machines, storage positions, and end-of-line processes. Depending on the application, a pallet conveyor may include powered rollers, chains, lifts, turns, stops, sensors, and transfers. It can also be integrated with robots and PLCs for automated loading, unloading, routing, and tracking.

Automated pallet conveyor systems reduce the delays and variability associated with manual pallet movement. By synchronizing transfers with machine cycles, robot cells, and downstream availability, the system can keep material moving at a controlled pace. Sensors and controls can also manage accumulation, prevent blocked zones, and route pallets to the correct operation. This supports steadier throughput, less handling time, and more predictable production flow.

Yes. GLOBAL integrates FANUC robots with conveyor systems for pallet loading, unloading, racking, de-racking, inter-station transfer, and related material-handling tasks. Engineering includes robot selection, end-of-arm tooling, fixtures, safety guarding, PLC integration, and programming. Vision-guided capabilities can help locate and verify parts or pallets where application conditions require greater flexibility, orientation confirmation, or real-time tracking.

A productive design starts with pallet dimensions, load weight, load stability, product mix, required throughput, cycle times, routing needs, and available floor space. Engineers also review existing equipment interfaces, operator interaction, utility availability, safety requirements, maintenance access, and future expansion plans. GLOBAL uses this information to evaluate the workflow and develop a practical concept aligned with the facility’s production and capital goals.

Yes. Existing lines can be modernized by adding or replacing conveyors, controls, sensors, robot interfaces, safety systems, and tracking capabilities. GLOBAL evaluates the current process, available layout, equipment condition, and production constraints before recommending an upgrade path. The goal is to improve material flow and automation while minimizing disruption. Retrofits can support new product launches, capacity increases, and manual-process conversion.

GLOBAL’s turnkey integration services include installation, commissioning, training, technical documentation, and ongoing support. During commissioning, the team validates equipment operation, controls coordination, safety functions, and production performance before launch. Training helps plant personnel understand normal operation and system interfaces. For continuing needs, GLOBAL can provide engineering and technical staffing resources alongside support for automation improvements, maintenance planning, and future line changes.