Pallet dispensers distribute individual pallets from a dedicated collection receptacle. The dispenser stores ISO or application-specific pallets, typically in stacks of 15 to 20.

 
The dispensers are a centralized storage location for unused pallets, which prevents them from unnecessarily occupying floor space, reduces manual collection and stacking effort, and improves the life cycle of the pallet. This also hastens packaging and palletizing operations.

 
Empty pallets are usually loaded into the top of the dispenser from a designated side via forklift, or are front-loaded by an integral roller conveyor. The pallets are neatly stacked by the dispenser. A mechanism at the bottom of the dispenser isolates the lowest pallet and positions it so it can be removed and utilized. This action is usually powered by an electric hydraulic or pneumatic pump. A conveyor or chain may eject the selected pallet.

Types of Pallet Dispensers

 
Pallet dispensers can be a one-size or universal unit that automatically accommodates dissimilar sizes. Custom configurations designed for distinct functions exist as well. Conventional machines are available in three primary configurations, including:

 
Auto Load Dispenser

Auto load dispensers are ideal for many pallets and when production relies on quick and precise palletizing. Such models allow for continuous operation, and are optimal for processing larger-sized payloads. Auto loading setups store up to three stacks of 10 to 12 items. These products offer side or inline loading.

 
Enhanced Pallet Dispenser

The pallet is dispensed from the stack by lifting up the stack but leaving the bottom pallet in place. Once the isolated pallet is removed the stack is placed back. Enhanced pallet systems store between 12 to 15 pieces and feature side or inline loading.

 
Standard Pallet Dispenser

A sweep chain removes the pallet located at the bottom of the stack. These options are ideal for tasks requiring top caps, slip sheets, and layer sheets. Standard configurations have a capacity of 12 to 15 components; typical versions support side loading.

 
Additional categories of dispensing solutions include:

 
Lift and Separate Dispenser

The pallets are released in single units by mechanism locking the whole load in place, leaving only the last pallet free or release.

 
Stripper-Style Dispenser

The pallet structure rests on two pads in the hopper and are pushed horizontally out of the dispenser. Multiple chains below the pallets force them out of the stack.

 
Staging Dispenser

Several pallet stacks are inserted into the dispenser and then moved to the dispensing location with a lifting machinery.

 
Features

• Welded construction: a heavy-duty construction to withstand industrial wear-and-tear
• Gravity flaps: flaps in the pallet hopper ensure top-loaded pallets stack squarely, with stability
• Standalone: the dispenser can function independently, without being integrated into an automated system.
• Three-way loading: some dispensers can be loaded from any side, minus the dispensing direction (left hand, right hand, and inline).
• Adjustable pick speed: settings for pallet ejection intervals for automated systems
• Low level detection: the dispenser alerts operators to a low pallet quantity

Specifications

• Pallet quantity: the capacity of the pallet hopper
• Maximum pallet size: the maximum dimensions of compatible pallets

• Pick rate: the maximum number of pallets that can be dispensed in a time period

• Pick speed: the interval between pallet dispenses

Applications

 
Some common fields that engage this technology include:

• Warehousing
• Shipping and transportation

• Manufacturing

• Military logistics

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OSHA