• In palletising lines using robotic palletisers. Most robots can pick their own pallets from a stack but this usually represents poor utilisation of the robot. It is better to have a separate pallet handling system and allow the robot to concentrate on the palletising task.
• In fibreboard plants where bundles of cartons need to be Palletised. The pallet dispenser then supplies the pallets into the load former as required.
• In stand-alone applications where a pallet is dispensed onto the floor. This makes individual pallets available to operators without the need for a forklift.

Safety

• Although Pallet dispensers are generally regarded as safe, there is potential for a stack to be tipped up from one side if it is not sitting in the correct place for the dispenser. Safeguards include additional position sensors and/or a fixed barrier.
• Placarding of automatic equipment is essential.
• Finally, as with other automatic equipment, operator and forklift driver training is important to minimise the risk of a mishap.

Limitations

• Although pallet dispensers can be used as stand-alone devices, they are more commonly integrated into an automatic palletising line. Other devices such as in-feed conveyor, out-feed conveyor and robotic palletisers (or load formers) are usually combined to make a complete palletising system. Our ability to integrate all of the various parts to work harmoniously is essential for such a system.
• Poor quality or inconsistent pallets are a problem in any automated system. Forklift drivers need to be vigilant and remove bad pallets from the stack before they reach the dispenser.

Best Buying

• Prices vary with features but can be higher when integration with other equipment is involved. Most pallet types can be handled with existing designs so any re-engineering should be minimal.