Seeing a need between basic jigs and semi-automated nailing machines, Pneumatico is launching its nailing solution designed to profitably produce small runs, oversized pallets and remanufactured pallets from recycled components. This machine can handle both stringer and block style pallets.
The pneumatic single-operator machines come in three different sizes. All the other key features are the same. They boast small footprints, allowing for ease of use in many different facility layouts and reducing cycle time by allowing components to be staged close to the operator.
The PT-1900 requires 35.5 ft² compared to the PT-2800’s need for 53.2 ft² and the PT-3300's use of 57.8 ft² of space. The PT-3300 can produce pallets up to 129.9" wide.
While many pallet companies in North America make their own jigs, labor challenges are leaning toward a greater need for something better.
Bartosz Wojciechowski, manufacturer’s representative for Pneumatico USA, commented, “Self-made jigs frequently have to be fixed; they don’t last very long. They are not very consistent when it comes to producing the same pallet size again and again.”
Wojciechowski added, “The Pneumatico line is very well made from quality components and metal. We are getting positive feedback from customers on the durability of the machines. They are easy to adjust, allowing for quick changes from one pallet size or spec to another.”
Changeovers take mere minutes. The change requiring the most time would be to go from a small stringer design to a large block pallet. And that would take only 20 minutes.
Probably the biggest benefits come in worker production and wear on the operator. Wojciechowski explained, “Our solution reduces strain on the worker from bending down to work on a traditional jig. The pallet is vertical, allowing for easier access. Pneumatic clamps hold components in place. A pneumatic lift eases a pallet toward the operator, which makes it easier to manually lift and flip the pallet. Nail guns are suspended from balancers. These features reduce the wear and strain on operators, allowing them to work longer and be more productive.”
Depending on the operator and pallet design, customers have routinely seen production range from 170 to 230 pallets for one operator on an eight-hour shift.
Wojciechowski recalled, “We have had a lot of customers upgrade from manual jigs in Europe, and they have found a positive return on their investment, usually an ROI in under a year.”
Pneumatico machines were introduced into the European market in 2016. They caught on quickly, with the installation of over 150 machines in more than a dozen countries across Europe, the Middle East, India and Africa.
These machines were created by Marcin Wojciechowski, who has years of experience working in the pneumatic sector in Poland. Bartosz is friends with Marcin (no family relation). He reached out to Bartosz to help him expand the brand to the United States.
Bartosz Wojciechowski, said, “Pneumatico machines work particularly well for custom-sizes and large pallets. It is very versatile and can be used for almost any pallet style imaginable. Our machines are ideal for a pallet that companies wouldn’t want to put on a fully automatic line, especially for short runs or odd-sizes.”
Setting up a machine is easy. All you need to do is plug in your air and nail guns and you are ready to go. Pneumatico machines will work with any standard U.S. pneumatic nail gun.
Right now, another big benefit of Pneumatico machines is short lead times. Bartosz has five smaller machines hitting the United States at the end of August. Those could be delivered in a week or less. Larger systems take about 90 days to be delivered from Europe.
Think of Pneumatico machines as a jig on steroids, designed to improve consistency, reduce worker strain and boost productivity. Bartosz said, “Our machines are designed simply to run with little maintenance. We feel our approach fits a need in the North American market.”
Currently, the company has inventory in stock and ready to ship. To find out more, visit www.pneumaticousa.com or call (978) 560-3775.
