Applications Feeding and Handling Systems for the Plastics Industry
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Feeding and Handling Systems for the Plastics Industry

Improve efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance product quality in plastic manufacturing processes.

Feeding and Handling Systems for the Plastics Industry
Why should you work with RNA?

Customized Solutions

We specialize in developing tailored solutions that perfectly match each client’s unique requirements, ensuring optimal performance and seamless integration with existing processes.

Comprehensive Support Services

We provide extensive after-sales support, including training, maintenance, and technical assistance, to ensure smooth operations and quick resolution of any issues.

Long-Term Partnership and Consultation

We act as a long-term partner for our clients, offering ongoing consultation and system upgrades to stay aligned with technological advancements and evolving industry demands.

Automating Plastic Manufacturing Processes with Custom Feeding, Handling, and Automation Systems

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Custom automation systems are engineered to meet the specific demands of plastic production processes such as injection molding, extrusion, and thermoforming. These systems integrate feeding and handling solutions to ensure reliable orientation, delivery, and movement of parts throughout the production line. RNA Automation also incorporates advanced robotics, vision systems, sensors, programmable logic controllers (PLCs), and intelligent software to automate critical operations with precision and efficiency.

Custom automation enables plastics manufacturers to remain competitive by maximizing productivity while maintaining the highest standards of quality.

In addition, automation reduces human intervention, helping lower labor costs and minimize workplace accidents.

RNA Automation works closely with plastics manufacturers to understand their unique production challenges and deliver tailored feeding and handling automation systems. Each solution is designed using the latest automation technologies—including feeding and handling systems—to improve efficiency, scalability, and overall performance across the entire production process.

RNA Automation
RNA Automation
RNA Automation
RNA Automation

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RNA’s Capabilities

Feeding and Handling Solutions expand icon

RNA provides reliable feeding systems such as vibratory bowl feeders, step feeders, and flexible feeding platforms—ideal for presenting molded plastic parts, from small connectors to large housings, in the correct orientation and sequence for downstream processes.

Robotic and conveyor-based handling solutions ensure smooth part transfer, optimized workflow, and reduced cycle times.

Process Automation and Control expand icon

Complete automation of molding lines and secondary operations is achieved through PLC- and HMI-based control systems. These systems ensure consistent cycle control, temperature regulation, and synchronization between machines, feeders, and robots—enhancing efficiency, accuracy, and overall product quality.

  • Programming of PLCs, HMIs, SCADA systems, and RFID communication
  • Integration with Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES)
  • Real-time monitoring, data collection, and process optimization
Vision Systems & Quality Inspection expand icon
  • Vision-Guided Inspection: High-resolution cameras and sensors verify dimensions, surface quality, orientation, and completeness.
  • In-Line Quality Control: Real-time defect detection enables 100% inspection, reducing rework, scrap, and warranty claims.
Standardized and Flexible Solutions expand icon

RNA offers both modular systems for common plastic part handling and fully customized automation solutions for unique applications.

FlexType™ P Assembly – Standard flexible assembly solution for plastic components.
FlexType™ P Pack – Standard flexible packing solution for plastic components.
FlexType™ R – Standard flexible feeding solution for plastic components.

AI and Simulation Tools expand icon

RNA employs simulation and digital twin technology to model and optimize automation systems prior to physical deployment. Artificial intelligence is also utilized for predictive maintenance and continuous process improvement, enabling plastic manufacturers to make data-driven decisions, enhance efficiency, and minimize downtime.

Applications

Bowl feeders to feed and orientate Moulding Plastic Caps

Bowl feeders to feed and orientate Moulding Plastic Caps

Bowl Feeder Standard Equipment

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VariCube R Flexible Assembly Solution - Plastics

FlexType™ P Automatic Diaphragm Assembly Machine

Flexible Feeder FlexType™ P

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Multi-lane vibratory bowl feeder coated with a smooth Teflon handles spray nozzle tip caps

Multi-lane bowl feeder handles and orientates Spray Nozzle Tip Caps

Bowl Feeder Multi-lane Linear Systems

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Vibratory bowl feeder to feed and orientate Spigots

Vibratory bowl feeder to feed and orientate Spigots

Bowl Feeder EcoType™ Bowl Feeders

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Bowl Feeder for Seal and Retaining Ring - Plastics

Bowl Feeder to feed and orientate Retaining Rings

Bowl Feeder Standard Equipment

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The plastics industry relies heavily on automation to achieve faster production, lower costs, and consistent quality. Custom automation systems combine technologies such as robotics, control systems, feeders, and vision inspection—each designed specifically for different plastic manufacturing processes, from molding to blowing.

What can these systems do? They manage everything from material handling and part removal to trimming, assembly, packaging, and stacking finished products. The advantages are clear: faster production cycles, improved accuracy, enhanced workplace safety, and significant long-term labor cost savings.

Experts say

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RNA has a lot of experience within the plastics moulding industry, we work with multiple key OEM machinery suppliers directly and have a lot of years of built up internal knowledge. We have successfully completed many simple project’s demoulding then assembling all the way up to over moulding inserts with full inspection and test cells afterwards. The reason RNA can help you with your plastics project is the key understanding of plastic moulding and all of it processes, having worked in plastics moulding myself for the last 14 years it means I can understand your process and help guide you with the best way to get the results you require.

Matt Knight | Sales Engineer

What our clients say

“RNA have been a pleasure to work with, they regularly go above and beyond to help with your requirements and do so in an extremely professional manner. Matthew knight has been my point of contact, and he has made the whole process stress and problem free. Asking for a complex automation system, I originally had a few concerns with how this project would work, but with Matt and RNA’s knowledge and expertise they proved that my concerns were nothing to worry about.”

Engineering Manager of UK based plastic injection moulders, providing high quality plastic injection moulded parts and assemblies

Plastics FAQs

What is automation in the plastics industry?

Custom automation systems are designed and tailored for specific stages of plastic production, including injection molding, extrusion, and thermoforming. These systems integrate specialized equipment such as robotics, vision systems, advanced sensors, programmable logic controllers (PLCs), and intelligent software to automate critical operations with precision and efficiency.

How is automation used in plastics industry?

Custom automation enables plastics manufacturers to boost competitiveness by optimizing production output while maintaining strict quality standards. RNA’s expertise lies in feeding and handling solutions that ensure precise part orientation, smooth transfer, and consistent flow throughout the production process. These systems minimize human intervention, lowering labor costs and reducing workplace risks. We provide vibratory bowl feeders, multi-lane linear systems, step feeders, centrifugal feeders, and flexible feeding systems.

Key applications include:

  • Automated feeding and orientation of molded plastic components
  • Precision handling for assembly, packaging, and inspection processes
  • Integration with robotic and vision systems for quality control
  • Flexible feeding solutions for quick part changeovers and high-mix production
What types of plastic components can RNA Automation handle?

RNA Automation systems are engineered to handle a wide range of plastic components, including molded parts, caps and closures, fittings, clips, connectors, housings, tubes, and packaging elements. Whether the parts are rigid, flexible, lightweight, or delicate, we deliver customized feeding and handling solutions to ensure smooth, reliable automation.

Can RNA Automation interface with injection molding machines?

Yes. We specialize in molding cell automation, providing solutions that integrate directly with injection molding machines. This includes part separation, cooling conveyors, orientation systems, and robotic pick-and-place units for downstream assembly, inspection, or packaging.

How does RNA ensure safe and damage-free handling of plastic parts?

RNA Automation ensures safe, damage-free handling of plastic parts through:

  • Custom Feeders: Vibratory bowls, centrifugal feeders, step feeders, and FlexType™ systems with precision-engineered, low-friction tooling for gentle part handling.
  • Vision-Guided Robotics: Accurate pick-and-place using sensors to prevent collisions and surface damage.
  • Inspection Systems: Integrated vision systems detect surface defects as small as 0.5 mm to maintain quality.
  • Custom Solutions: Tailored designs optimized for each component’s geometry, material, and process requirements.”
Does RNA support short product lifecycles or frequent changeovers?

Yes. RNA offers flexible feeding systems such as the FlexType™ R and FlexType™ P, specifically designed for rapid changeovers and mixed-part handling. These systems are ideal for manufacturers managing frequent part variations, short production runs, or customized plastic components, ensuring minimal downtime and maximum flexibility.

Can vision systems be integrated for inspection or part sorting?

Yes. RNA integrates advanced machine vision systems for part orientation, quality inspection, color verification, and automatic rejection of defective or flash-containing parts.

How do I start working with RNA?

Contact our team to discuss your next project. Our experts will provide guidance and support to help you achieve your goals. Call us on  +44 (0)121 749 2566 or email us using  [email protected].

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