When automating your warehouse or distribution centre, investing in automated sorting equipment is essential for efficiently moving and tracking inventory. One of the most versatile automated sorting systems is the cross-belt sorter. Cross-belt sorters provide high-speed sorting capabilities to maximise warehouse productivity. Understanding how cross-belt sorters work and their key benefits will help you determine if this technology is the right solution for your facility’s needs.
How Cross-Belt Sorters Work
Cross-belt sorters utilise a network of perpendicular conveyors to rapidly divert packages to specified destinations. Packages are loaded onto the inbound feed conveyor, which transports them towards the sortation area. Sensors detect package information like barcodes, weights, or dimensions. Once analysed, air blasts or movable slats precisely divert packages onto specified right-angle takeaway conveyors based on preset sorting rules. Packages discharged on takeaway conveyors are transported to designated fulfillment, shipping, or storage zones.
Cross-belt sorters can handle varying sizes and weights of boxes, bags, and padded envelopes. Intelligent software tracks each package through the system and allows for flexible reconfiguration of sorting destinations. Sorters are equipped with jam detection to minimise downtime and can operate at speeds exceeding 200 packages per minute.
Key Benefits
Speed – Cross-belt sorters offer high-throughput sorting capabilities. Multi-directional diverts happen quickly to keep package flow moving.
Flexibility – Software allows sorting parameters to be adjusted on the fly. Destinations can be easily added, changed, or removed to accommodate changing needs.
Small Footprint – Perpendicular conveyor configuration provides more sorted destinations per linear foot. Cross-belt units take up less warehouse space than comparable solutions.
Control – Barcode scanning captures vital shipping data. Serial-numbered slats provide precise tracking of each item. Inventory visibility improves warehouse management.
Reliability – High-quality components are designed for 24/7 operation. Preventative maintenance programs minimise unplanned downtime events.
When evaluating automated sorting equipment, cross-belt sorters stand out for their versatility, throughput, and reliability. The technology integrates seamlessly with warehouse management systems to boost efficiency. For high-volume distribution facilities, implementing cross-belt sorters can significantly maximise fulfillment performance.
Read the article to find out how Cross Belt Sorters streamline package handling.
