Bail Arm Opener

Bail arm crates: stacking or nesting

A bail arm crate has two hinged bail arms. With the arms locked across the top, the next crate stacks securely on them. With the arms opened, empty crates nest inside each other and take much less space in transport and storage.

Attached lid containers (ALC) follow the same principle, with lids fixed to the container instead of bail arms deciding whether the crates stack or nest.

On a washing line the bail arms must be in the right position both for washing and for the stacking that follows. Done by hand, it is a repetitive and straining task.

How the bail arm opener works

The crate arrives on a conveyor. Optical detection checks the bail arm position, and a pneumatic actuator opens or locks the arms as required. Pneumatic operation keeps the cycle fast and maintenance low.

The control is compatible with common PLC systems, and the unit is designed to integrate into existing washing lines without significant changes to the surrounding conveyor system.

Technical data

• Crate size: 600 × 400 mm
• Detection: optical
• Actuator: pneumatic, compressed air 6 bar
• Control: PLC compatible
• Material: stainless steel for wet washing line conditions
• Power supply: 50 Hz, 400 V

Part of a washing and stacking line

The bail arm opener is placed on the washing line before washing or before the stacker, and works together with crate conveyors, stackers and destackers. Pohjaranta designs and builds the equipment in Säkylä, Finland, and handles automation and installation with its own people.