Sorters and Sorting Systems
Sorters are used to sort products and packages based on predetermined criteria, such as shipping carrier , weight, size, or shape. They can be used to sort products into specific lanes or chutes, to create batches of similar products, or to prepare products for shipping. Sorters are typically used in conjunction with conveyance systems, allowing products to be transported to the sorter and then directed to the appropriate destination.
Common Types of Sorters
Right Angle Sorters
Right angle sorters sort products by mechanically diverting products off a moving conveyor if the product needs to transported along a different path. Also known as low ratesorters, these sorting machines are fairly simple, and are capable of handling most common sorting needs. They also are often low cost and simple to maintenance, which is why many operations prefer these if they are not in need of handling high throughput or fragile goods.
Pop-up Sorters
Pop-up sorters use a series of pop-up rollers to sort products. As products move along a conveyor belt, the rollers can pop up to direct the products off the current path and toward a new destination. Pop-up sorters are highly flexible and can be used to sort a wide variety of products, from small parts to large boxes and pallets. They are known to be efficient and effective at higher throughput sortation requirements.
Sliding Shoe Sorters
Sliding shoe sorters use a series of sliding “shoes” to sort products based on predetermined criteria. As products move along a conveyor belt, the “shoes” can slide left or right to guide the materials off the current conveyor and onto a new path based on the decision criteria. Sliding shoe sorters are ideal for handling a wide range of products with a relatively high sort rate, and are often a preferred choice for high speed applications.
Benefits of Sorters
Sorters offer a range of benefits for material handling operations, including:
- Improved efficiency: Sorters help sort products quickly and accurately, reducing the dependency of manual labor and improving overall efficiency.
- Increased accuracy: Sorters help ensure that products are sorted correctly every time, reducing the risk of errors and improving accuracy.
- Reduced labor costs: By automating the sorting process, sorters can help reduce labor costs and improve profitability.
- Enhanced flexibility: Sorters can be customized to meet specific needs, allowing for sorting of a wide range of products and packages with ease.
- High volume requirements and reduced footprint, sorters can accomplish repetitive tasks at high speeds and significantly reduce space requirements over manual labor processes.
At VARGO®, we offer a wide range of sorter solutions to meet your unique needs. Whether you need a right angle sorter, a pop-up wheel sorter, a sliding shoe sorter, or other solutions, we can help you design and implement a custom solution that meets your specific requirements. Contact us today to learn more about our innovative sorter solutions.