KBR Conveyor Sections recently engineered and manufactured a set of pneumatic ball conveyors for Shaws of Darwen, a renowned UK sink manufacturer. Shaws produces some of the finest handcrafted fireclay sinks and enjoys a reputation for beauty, quality, craftsmanship, and practicality. This new addition to their manufacturing process has significantly enhanced the efficiency and ergonomics of their operations.
Craftsmanship Meets Modern Technology
Shaws of Darwen is famous for their meticulous four-week sink production process. Skilled artisans carry out each step, from moulding to glazing, to ensure every sink meets the highest standards. However, the final stage of packing these handcrafted sinks presented a challenge. The previous setup required manual lifting of heavy boxes, each weighing over 70 kilos. Consequently, this was both labour-intensive and prone to mishandling.
The Pneumatic Ball Conveyor Solution
To address this issue, KBR Conveyor Sections introduced the pneumatic ball conveyor into the final packing stage. This innovative system integrates seamlessly into the existing process. It allows operators to inspect and add final touches to the packaging without manual lifting.
How It Works
The pneumatic ball conveyor holds the packed sink stationary while operators complete their inspections. Once finished, a pneumatic actuator engages, lifting the box and making it mobile. Therefore, this system allows the operator to easily orient the packed item and move it down the line. Finally, it is then unloaded via a vacuum lift and palletised for shipping.
Benefits of the Pneumatic Ball Conveyor
The pneumatic ball conveyor has brought several significant benefits to Shaws of Darwen:
- Increased Ergonomics: The system eliminates the need for manual lifting. As a result, this reduces operator fatigue and minimises the risk of injury.
- Enhanced Efficiency: Operators can now move packed sinks with minimal effort. This speeds up the packing process and ensures that products are handled with care.
- Reduced Risk of Damage: Automating the lifting and moving process greatly reduces the risk of mishandling and potential damage to the sinks. This is crucial given the time and effort required to create each handcrafted sink.
- Improved Productivity: The streamlined process allows Shaws to maintain their high standards of quality while increasing overall productivity.
Conclusion
Integrating the pneumatic ball conveyor into Shaws of Darwen’s packing process showcases how modern technology can enhance traditional craftsmanship. This innovative solution improves ergonomics and efficiency while ensuring that Shaws continues to deliver their high-quality sinks with the utmost care. As a result, Shaws maintains their reputation for excellence while embracing advancements that benefit both their workers and their customers.
Contact Us
For more information about pneumatic ball conveyors and how they can benefit your business, please contact us. Our team is ready to assist you in finding the best solutions for your manufacturing needs.
