Where to start and why does a return conveyor make the most sense at the beginning?
More and more companies—including those operating in single-unit or small-batch mode—are beginning to introduce solutions that reduce the workload on employees, stabilize the process, and allow for more predictable production.
In practice, this means not only introducing advanced systems, but also using small automation steps that improve work organization where it matters most: at the interface between the operator, the machine, and the flow of components.
One such solution is the return conveyor.
Return conveyor – a solution that organizes the workflow
A return conveyor is a device that takes over one of the most tedious parts of the process: the physical transfer of elements from the end of the edge banding machine back to the operator.
Although this is only one stage of the entire cycle, its automation often brings surprising results quickly, as it eliminates an activity that regularly interrupts the operator’s work and introduces unnecessary breaks.
Transporter:
maintains the rhythm of the edge banding machine,
prevents elements from being placed in random locations,
facilitates maintaining a constant pace,
stabilizes subsequent stages of the process (e.g., quality control or packaging),
helps to better utilize the space around the workstation.
This makes the entire production process more organized — without any changes to the machine park.
Who is the return conveyor for?
The return conveyor is a solution particularly recommended for:
small and medium-sized plants that want to streamline the process with minimal interference with the rest of production,
companies that carry out single-unit or short-run production,
plants where the operator often has to leave the edge banding machine,
places where fluidity and a stable pace of work are important,
companies planning to implement automation gradually (so-called phased automation).
For many companies, this is their first contact with automation — the easiest way to test its effects without large investments.
Different models, different needs
There is a wide range of return conveyors available on the market, including:
ZHR 01–05
TFU 120–140
Loopteq O-200, O-300
other models from the HOMAG group
The selection of the right model should take into account both current needs and how the plant plans to develop production in the future.
See the conveyor in action – theory versus practice
Below is a video showing the return conveyor in action – in this case, the ZHR 01 model.
This is a good way to see:
how the organization around the machine changes,
how much impact this has on the pace of work.
Not sure which conveyor to choose?
Choosing the right model depends on many factors — and it is worth doing so consciously so that the investment actually translates into improvements.
We will be happy to advise you and help you choose the solution that is perfectly suited to your edge banding machine, production pace, and available space.
Contact:
📩 biuro@strefacnc.pl
📞 +48 512 750 000
📍 HOMAG || Strefa CNC, ul. Putka 9, Wadowice