Description
In bottled water facilities, loading filled 3- and 5-gallon bottles into reusable transport racks is a physically demanding, repetitive process that can create labor challenges and limit production capacity. To address these issues, FANUC Authorized System Integrator @SteelheadSystems developed an automated rack-loading solution. The system automatically transfers filled bottles from the production line into transport racks, helping bottled water producers maintain a consistent loading pace and reduce manual labor. Moving up to 600 bottles per hour, the automated solution supports high-volume bottling operations while improving ergonomics and overall production efficiency.
The system receives filled bottles directly from the bottling-line conveyor and stages them using integrated stops and sensors. A FANUC M-710iC/70 robot equipped with Steelhead's dual-head, scoop-style end-of-arm tool simultaneously picks up two bottles and places them into a transport rack. The robot repeats this loading sequence until the rack is filled, stacking bottles four or five levels high on a pallet. PLC controls, rack and forklift sensors coordinate system operation, while perimeter guarding and an interlocked access gate help ensure safety. A manual bottle-stop gate also allows operators to continue loading bottles manually during maintenance or downtime.
Steelhead Automated Rack Loader Key Benefits
• Reduced manual handling: Automates the repetitive lifting and loading of heavy 3- and 5-gallon bottles, helping minimize operator fatigue and exposure to lifting-related injuries.
• Lower labor requirements: Reduces staffing demands at the rack-loading station and allows personnel to focus on higher-value production activities.
• Consistent throughput: Maintains reliable loading performance at rates up to 600 bottles per hour, supporting steady production flow and reducing dependence on manual loading availability.
• Seamless line integration: Steelhead-designed tooling, bottle staging, rack stands and PLC controls create a fully integrated solution for bottled water production environments.
About Steelhead, Inc.
Steelhead, Inc. has specialized in water bottling equipment and automation for the bottled water industry for more than 50 years, designing and manufacturing 5-gallon bottling lines, water treatment systems and robotic handling solutions for customers worldwide. Its offerings include large-format bottle washers and fillers, robotic rack-loading systems, and a full range of parts, service and supplies. Steelhead supports customers with in-house engineering and fabrication, installation, training, preventive maintenance and lifetime equipment support.
FANUC M-710iC/70
The FANUC M-710iC/70 is a medium-payload industrial articulated robot engineered for heavy-duty material handling, palletizing, machine tending, and process applications. This lightweight robot features a slim wrist, rigid arm and small footprint. Offering best payload and inertia in its category, this powerful 6-axis model is suitable for various applications and combines a 70 kg payload with extremely high axis speeds.