Case Study: Columbia Machine, Inc. achieves precise, versatile palletizing with Rockwell Automation

Servo-Driven Palletizer Delivers Versatility

Columbia Machine, Inc., a leading palletizer supplier in North America, needed a way to deliver robotic-like precision in a conventional, floor-level palletizer while keeping speed and flexibility high enough for changing packaging and retail demands. Working with Rockwell Automation, Columbia Machine developed the FL6200 high-speed palletizer using an Allen-Bradley control and motion platform.

Rockwell Automation’s solution centered on a CompactLogix controller, Kinetix 5700 servo drives, VPL servo motors, and a PanelView Plus 6 terminal on an EtherNet/IP network. The result was repeatable, precise performance across many product types, “zero-time” changeover, and a modular, future-ready design that can palletize up to 100 cases per minute. The common control architecture also simplified operation and maintenance while improving diagnostics and overall equipment effectiveness.

Columbia Machine, Inc.

Ted Yeigh

Director of Marketing