The challenge
Pneutronic AG has been a leading provider of process automation solutions for over 30 years. Its portfolio includes the integration of automation and robotics systems, software engineering, control technology, and specialized controllers for fineblanking presses. In one of its projects, Pneutronic faced the challenge of transporting stacked components with varying sizes and heavy loads along a single conveyor line into an automated production area. The components were heavily soiled, rusty, and difficult to handle due to their condition and weight. They exceeded the load capacity of a single belt conveyor, making the task even more complex. To ensure smooth automation, the stacked parts needed to be transported without tipping over and had to arrive precisely aligned and centered for error-free robotic pick-up. The robot then places the components individually into a milling machine for processing and removes them afterward. The machined components—now unstacked—are placed side-by-side on a wide belt conveyor and transported out of the automated production area.
The solution
To meet these complex requirements, Montech developed a customized solution based on our standardized
belt conveyors and floor stands. Using our online configurator, Pneutronic was able to define many parameters independently and quickly select the right conveyor components. To ensure safe transport across multiple conveyor sections, Montech optimized the transitions so that the stacked components remain stable throughout the process. Since the total weight exceeded what a single conveyor could support, the transport line was divided into four separate conveyor segments. The most technically demanding section—at the end of the conveyor line—required a special solution. Montech developed a setup with multiple belt tracks on a single conveyor, based on a standard system but customized to integrate Pneutronic’s own lifting and centering device. This ensures that each stack of components is precisely aligned for seamless robotic handling.
The customer benefits
- Cost-effective solution with use of standardized belt conveyors
- Flexibility with customization of the belt conveyors to suit special requirements
- Quick implementation thanks to the online configurator and short delivery times
- Simple customization of the special solution based on a standard belt conveyor
- Secure transport of components without tipping over thanks to optimized transitions
- Precise alignment and centering of components for robot removal
- Optimized collaboration with the use of 3D models and online meetings
