Diverting units (also called strippers, measuring units, sorting units etc.) are all objects which can change the direction of a product in transit.
They are usually used when a product needs to be sorted from one to more lines (e.g. infeed to a wrapping machine) or to reunite the product from several lines to only one (e.g. infeed from two wrappers to one cartoning machine, perhaps passing through scales)
According to conditions of use and the product they move, some diverting units may have a brake or brake themselves, so that the product can be stopped before the movement phase (typically sorters 1/2 lanes immediately upstream of a machine).
The diverting units can be divided into two main categories:
In the case of manual diverting units, it is the operator who decides to usually move a guide or a bulkhead.
This operation is normally carried out when the line is halted, as it is hard to move guides or bulkheads and therefore manually sort the product “on the spot” because there is never the certainty of being able to repeat the action.
In that of automatic diverting units the movement system is usually controlled by a pneumatic component or a leverage system controlled by a reducer (or motoreducer).
In any case the signal for starting up product diversion is given by a photocell or a timer which act through the software of the system.
It is important to notice that these diverting units are automatic and must always be equipped with suitable safety guarding systems for operators so they are never in contact with the mechanism whether idle or operational.
All stop units can be customised according to customer needs and the size of the products to be stopped.
Stop units do not need particular layout requirements as they do not require spaces upstream or downstream. The only element to be wary of is any accumulation created during action.
Product features must be carefully evaluated every time (shape, size, surface in contact with transport, consistence, speed etc.) if they are compatible with accumulation on chains and/or belt. If they are, meticulously examine the features of the belt to be chosen.
This data should be taken into account during design and sizing of guides, bulkheads, cylinders and electro valves appropriately accomplished.