Over thirty years ago, WMH introduced its first ready meal assembly line, setting the standard with a basic yet functional design that paved the way for future innovations. Over the decades, these designs have undergone significant refinement, incorporating advanced features and technologies.
While the core principle—a chain with attachments pushing the product trays—remains the backbone of the system, the modern conveyors have evolved into sophisticated, highly efficient machines.
True to WMH’s commitment to customisation, all their ready meal assembly lines are built to order, allowing bespoke features tailored to each buyer’s unique needs. For example, WMH can provide twin-lane assembly lines for high-throughput requirements or where space constraints limit the length of the line.
These twin-lane systems can seamlessly merge two product streams into a single lane via an integrated merge section. Alternatively, when space is tight, the twin lanes can operate independently, enabling parallel assembly of two distinct products.
For customers handling a variety of tray sizes, WMH has an interesting solution. Utilising two chains in place of one, enables multiple pitches to be set, optimize throughput for different products.
The layout of your downstream machinery plays a pivotal role in shaping the final design of your assembly conveyor. One notable project involved designing make-up lines with a mid-point S-bend. This was to feed products into downstream sealing machines that required greater spacing. This innovative design ensured seamless integration and efficient operation.
WMH assembly lines are also fully compatible with external automated feeders and depositors. Each unit comes equipped with electrical and pneumatic service connection points for seamless integration.
For instance, a recent project involved a unique assembly line designed to accommodate a specialist depositor with a low-level discharge. This novel conveyor features a dipped section midway through the line. Therefore allowing trays to be loaded at standard working height, lowered for filling, and then returned to working height for downstream transfer.
From concept to completion, WMH designs assembly lines that not only meet expectations but consistently redefine industry standards.