Atlanta UK boosts box plant’s operational efficiencies with automated pallet wrapping solution

Leading packing and wrapping specialists, Atlanta UK, has recently supplied a leading Peterborough-based cardboard box manufacturer with an automated solution to enhance their pallet wrapping and handling processes. The investment is in response to a significant surge in orders that strained their existing manual operations.

Faced with the challenge of managing pallet loads reaching heights of up to 2900mm and handling rates approaching 60 pallet loads per hour, the box plant sought a transformative solution. The company’s rapid growth underscored the need for more efficient internal pallet movement.

Atlanta UK responded with a tailored approach that introduced an innovative low-level pallet conveying system, seamlessly integrated with the box plant’s existing palletising operation. From the outset, this inventive solution greatly improved process efficiency, enabling the sequencing of full loads, two at a time, into a custom-designed high-speed rotary arm pallet wrapping unit.

One of the significant advantages of the introduced low-level conveyors was their role in streamlining the unloading of fully wrapped and secured pallets. Given that all internal pallet movements within the facility relied on standard powered pallet trucks with no lifting capabilities, the conveyors facilitated this essential step.

The inherent instability of the column-stacked pallet loads presented a unique challenge. Moreover, the wrapping process required a delicate balance between securing the load and minimising the use of film. The need for reliable film welding at the end of each wrapping cycle was also emphasised, preventing unwinding during unloading at end-user sites. Atlanta UK’s proprietary welding solution, featuring constant heating and minimal maintenance, has proven remarkably effective in meeting these demands.

Throughout the project lifecycle, Atlanta UK demonstrated its commitment to a comprehensive approach. From design and manufacturing to installation and commissioning, all milestones were successfully accomplished within the specified project timescales. Close collaboration with the box plant’s existing film supplier ensured a seamless transition and commissioning process.

Atlanta UK’s Roger Cope commented: “We take pride in our ability to engineer customised solutions that not only meet the specific needs of our clients but also drive operational efficiency. The successful integration of our low-level pallet conveying system and high-speed rotary arm pallet wrapping unit showcases our commitment to innovation and seamless collaboration.”