What Is a Sorter?
A sorter is a machine used in various industries to sort and convey items based on their destinations. This automated system, requiring minimal human intervention, allows for the rapid and accurate sorting of large volumes of goods, enhancing efficiency and reducing operational costs. The effectiveness of sorters is contingent on the processing capabilities of the distribution center and necessitates comprehensive system control.
Uses of Sorters
Employed predominantly in large-scale distribution centers, sorters automate the sorting process for diverse goods. They are essential in environments where rapid, accurate sorting is critical, such as in metalworking, food processing, and waste management facilities. Sorters come in several types, including cross-belt, pan, slide shoe, and pop-up models, each selected based on the specific requirements of the goods being sorted.
Principle of Sorters
Sorters operate by directing items along branching conveyor paths, sorting them into designated categories. This process involves various models, each with unique mechanisms:
- Sliding Shoe: Uses a plate-shaped shoe to convey and gently eject items.
- Cross Belt: Employs a short conveyor belt to sort items with minimal friction.
- Pan: Designed for carrying items in individual cases.
- Pop-up: Sorts items through a mechanism that moves up and down.
- Turntable: Utilizes a rotating platform for sorting.
- Pusher System: Ejects items from the conveyor for sorting.
- Diverter Method: Uses a swinging guide plate for sorting.
- Tilt Tray Method: Sorts items by tilting trays into designated receptacles.
Types of Sorters
Sorters are categorized as conveyor or robotic:
- Conveyor: Ideal for large warehouses, these sorters continuously sort materials on conveyors.
- Robotic: Suitable for smaller spaces, robot sorters handle and sort products individually.
How to Select a Sorter
Choosing the right sorter involves considering the type, features, and the specific sorting requirements:
- Sliding Shoe: Offers high capacity for a range of item sizes and weights, minimizing impact on products.
- Cross Belt: Ideal for gentle transport and sorting of items, customizable for size constraints.
- Pan: Prevents damage to bagged goods, widely used for apparel and similar products.
- Pop-up: Provides smooth, efficient sorting suitable for heavier items.
- Turntable: Features simple design and precise sorting, though limited by material size.
- Pusher: Specialized for rapid sorting of items like books, with mechanisms for precise sectioning.
- Diverter: Simple, versatile, and suitable for continuous sorting operations in logistics and transportation hubs.
- Tilt Tray: Enables piece-by-piece sorting, integrating inspection and sorting processes.