Automated Flat Sheet Handling Systems

MESH Palletizing and Handling of Flat Sheet Goods

From metals to paper, automated flat sheet handling is needed in many industries. Flat sheets are typically described as a raw material but can also represent the end product. Automated handling of flat sheets is typically done via gantry or robot with the use of suction or magnetic tooling. Expertise in separating the sheets from each other, holding the sheet flat while transporting it, and keeping the sheet oriented in a preferred manner are very important in the design of a flat sheet handling system.

At MESH, we have the experience and library of tools that are proven to work in the automated handling of flat sheets into and out of machine centers and presses or the presentation of the sheet to a stud welding system, riveting head, or other similar system. Additionally, we have stacked finished products on a pallet using our palletizing experience.

Flat Sheet Palletizing FAQ

When do you recommend a Gantry over a robot for flat sheet handling?When is a robot the right automation tool for flat sheets?
Gantry’s can handle large format sheets better than robots and can sometimes be more cost effective when payloads and size start to max out the standard robot offerings. Additionally, if the pick location is far from the place location a gantry may be a better option.
Robots have the best value when six axis’s of motion are needed. This often comes into play on most machine tending operations or when an angle motion is needed to separate sheets during destacking.
Mesh Automation > Automated Flat Sheet Handling Systems