Pallet Sorting Systems has recently installed an advanced pallet sorting and repair line at Metrosystem in Estonia, making them the first company in the country to fully automate pallet processing. The installation offers significant advantages in terms of efficiency, ergonomics, and quality control. With the capacity to sort up to 500 pallets per hour, managed by just one sorter and one forklift driver, Metrosystem has taken a major step towards process optimization and innovation.
The sorting line at Metrosystem consists of 12 pallet stackers, which are flexible and can handle different types of pallets, including Euro and block pallets. The sorter has direct access to four stackers, where the high-quality “golden first-choice pallets” can be stacked immediately after sorting. Behind these four stackers is the repair line with an additional eight stackers. Damaged pallets are automatically transported from the sorting machine to the repairers via an overhead conveyor.
After repair, these pallets are returned to the line via a lower conveyor, where they are re-sorted and placed in one of the eight stackers behind the repair line. This system ensures seamless integration of sorting and repair, which not only increases processing capacity but also significantly extends the lifespan of the pallets.
The sorting system is equipped with twelve stackers that can sort pallets based on type and quality without any adjustments. This means that both Euro pallets and block pallets can be sorted continuously without interruption. The sorter can distribute pallets across all 12 stackers, while the repairers use the eight stackers connected to the repair line.
This setup allows for quick and efficient sorting, resulting in consistent quality. Damaged pallets are effectively repaired and reintroduced into the production line, leading to less waste and higher efficiency.
A key benefit of the new sorting line is the ergonomic improvement for pallet repairers. Pallets no longer need to be manually lifted from the floor, thanks to the non-powered roller conveyors and lift tables integrated into the repair workstations. These lift tables adjust the pallets to an ideal working height for the repairers, significantly reducing physically demanding tasks. This contributes to a safer and more efficient workspace.
The roller conveyors and lift tables ensure a smooth repair process without unnecessary delays caused by lifting and moving pallets. Once repaired, the pallets are automatically returned to the sorting line and sorted correctly. This greatly increases productivity and optimizes the flow of both new and repaired pallets.
The pallet sorting and repair line is equipped with the PSS SCADA system and PSS App, providing full control and real-time monitoring capabilities. With this technology, operators and supervisors can easily track the performance of the sorting line and make adjustments when needed. The PSS SCADA system provides detailed data on productivity, machine status, and any faults. Additionally, managers can access the process information anywhere through the PSS App on their mobile devices.
This technology integration enhances efficiency and accuracy, allowing potential issues to be quickly identified and resolved. This minimizes downtime and boosts the overall operational efficiency of the pallet sorting and repair line.
With the installation of the advanced pallet sorting and repair line from Pallet Sorting Systems, Metrosystem has taken a major step toward fully automating their pallet processing operations. The sorting line offers significant benefits in terms of productivity, ergonomics, and quality control. Thanks to the efficient design, which integrates both sorting and repair, Metrosystem can process up to 500 pallets per hour with minimal manpower.
The integration of the PSS SCADA system and PSS App ensures that Metrosystem has full control over their processing operations, maximizing efficiency and minimizing downtime. This investment in automation positions Metrosystem as a leader in the pallet industry in Estonia, and the company is now well-prepared for the future.