In modern manufacturing environments, automated feeding via palletizers is a central component for cycle time, process reliability, and line utilization. However, with conventional systems, workpiece fixtures are often permanently installed – this complicates retrofitting, prevents reuse, and isolates processes from each other.
The solution: Modular part carriers from ZELL that are not permanently integrated in the palletizer, but can be flexibly inserted, removed and reused. This creates a continuous, traceable material flow – across machines, cleaning systems, QA and packaging.
An impressive example is shown by Müller Präzision in its video:
👉 mueller-praezision.de
Here, ZELL workpiece carriers are automatically removed from the palletizer, repackaged into customer blisters and reloaded – across several automation steps. The system enables the fully automatic processing of large batch series over many hours without operator intervention. The components remain protected, separated and traceable – with minimal handling risk.
For standardized palletizing tasks, ZELL recommends the combination with an Afipro palletizer:
👉 afipro.de
These systems are compact, modular, robust – and optimally matched to the interfaces of the ZELL carriers. They enable rapid integration into existing machine parks, for example for feeding to:
The use of modular ZELL workpiece carriers not only offers advantages at the machine itself but also improves the entire internal logistics chain – from goods receipt to final packaging.
Since the carriers are not permanently connected to the palletizer, they can be flexibly loaded and unloaded, transported, and reused at other stations. This makes the workpiece carrier a continuous logistical unit that connects various process steps without repacking or reloading.
In combination with tugger trains, automated guided vehicles (AGVs), or high-bay warehouses, this enables a smooth material flow – without media breaks, without additional handling effort, and without loss of quality. Each carrier can also be equipped with DMC, engraving, or RFID chip, which allows for complete traceability throughout the entire production network.
The result: Better cycle times, less relocation, less scrap – and a clear, digitally recordable logistics structure that works for both series production and flexible small batch strategies.
ZELL Part Carriers in combination with intelligent palletizing solutions such as those from Afipro enable a modular, process-oriented material flow across many stations – from goods receipt to the robot cell and final packaging. The system scales with your requirements, not against them.
Automated. Traceable. Reusable.
That is workpiece handling with a future.
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