Rotary ring balers vs. traditional methods: advantages
Rotary ring balers are an interesting alternative because they contribute to the automation of baling and the distribution of supplies and goods. This system, using an articulated arm, wraps the pallet with precision and ensures its stability. However, not all the advantages they offer over traditional systems are fully understood. Here are the most important ones:
1. Strapping time with rotary ring strapping machines
Strapping time is substantially reduced when using automatic devices. In fact, it can take more than twice as long to strap a pallet manually than it does with a machine. Furthermore, a machine does not get tired or need to stop every so often. When adding up several pallets, it is clear that the time savings when mechanising the processes are enormous.
There are several types of strapping machines and the hourly frequency will vary. The simplest models provide 50 strapped pallets per hour, while the most advanced ones reach 160. Therefore, we are looking at a difference that cannot be achieved manually.
2. Workplace safety
Safety is another essential factor that makes a difference. Using a baler reduces the likelihood of workplace accidents. Workers are not in direct contact with the load, there is no risk of falling, and there is no risk of muscle strain. If you want to prioritise occupational risk protection, working with machinery is the best option. Ultimately, the lower the margin for human error, the better for everyone involved.
The truth is that, even if you apply scrupulous policies in this regard, automation is always safer than manual labour. Therefore, if you want to avoid problems that you cannot control, it is best to use a rotating ring baler.
3. Labour costs
Labour costs are another specific area where a baler provides savings. Firstly, because less manpower is required per pallet. Secondly, because the risk of accidents at work, and therefore sick leave and compensation, is lower. All these factors mean that, if you have to palletise often, this alternative is worthwhile.
Obviously, the larger the company, the greater the cost savings, because every payroll saved is a lower business cost. In any case, if you look at it from a comprehensive point of view, you are likely to make significant savings.
4. Use of stretch film
Stretch film is used more efficiently with a baler than manually. Why? Because you can adjust it and thus use just the right amount, tensioning the material. This is irrelevant for a single pallet, but when you have to baler several hundred pallets a month, it is a cost to be taken into account.
Obviously, the quality of the film itself also counts when assessing the difference. But, under similar conditions, an automatic machine will help you get more out of what you have available.
5. Wrapping quality
The quality of the wrapping is another important factor when comparing machinery and the manual method. Undoubtedly, when automatic methods are chosen, the quality is higher because there are no film tails or similar issues. However, in the other case, it is easier for the film to break, not be sufficiently tensioned and subsequently cause problems with reception.
There is also the case of breakage due to impact. When you opt for a baling machine, there is greater protection and the chances of this problem occurring are reduced. Therefore, if you do not want the load to be damaged, this is a way to minimise the risks.
6. Adaptation to market demands
Mechanisation allows for better adaptation, for example, to a sudden increase in demand. On the one hand, the speed of balers can be adjusted according to current needs and they can work at a faster pace with greater flexibility than if you use traditional methods. This makes it a preferable option to others in extreme or unexpected situations. Today, there is a lot of talk about scalability, and this is an added value of a baler compared to other methods.
7. Adjustments to pallets and irregular loads
Some loads or pallets do not have a uniform distribution, such as granules. A rotating ring baler can better adapt to this circumstance if it is properly programmed. Here, a worker could also do this manually, but the risk of accidents at work is greater. Adjusting to irregular loads is therefore a particularly important point. Adjustments to irregular loads are especially important where it is not possible to maintain uniformity. It is true that this will require the machine to be properly calibrated, but it also provides greater safety.
8. Costs of balers and traditional methods
Balers have a cost and an initial investment; this is what sometimes discourages people from buying them. Obviously, if the need for baling is small and only occasional, you may be able to do it manually.
But that said, there are two points we cannot fail to mention. The first is that, in the medium term, the investment in a strapping machine pays for itself from a relatively low monthly pallet threshold. And secondly, not changing technology can cause your company to lose competitiveness.
Finally, there are companies that sell rotating ring strapping machines at very competitive prices. Therefore, it is worth taking this into account.
In summary…
Rotary ring strapping machines are interesting because they provide added value, help your company to be more competitive, reduce costs and increase productivity. In addition, you can find a variety of them depending on your sector of activity. For all these reasons, they are a preferable option to traditional strapping. At Movitec we have a wide range of options. Call us and we will inform you about our catalogue with no obligation!