Automatic sorting scales

The JDW Series Automatic sorting scales are inline checkweighing and diversion system manufactured by Jiangsu Jutian Weighing Equipment Co., Ltd. It is designed to weigh products in motion, compare each weight reading against preset limits, and mechanically direct items into separate lanes or collection zones based on the result. The equipment combines dynamic weighing, pass/fail logic, and physical sorting actuation within a single integrated conveyor section.

The system is deployed on production lines where products must be classified by weight after filling, assembly, or packaging—for example, separating underweight, acceptable, and overweight cartons into distinct outfeed conveyors. All weight data, timestamps, and sorting results are recorded for downstream quality documentation and traceability.

Technical Specifications

Accuracy considerations: Detection accuracy and sorting throughput depend on product weight, dimensions, conveyor speed, and environmental stability. Stated accuracy ranges are based on controlled factory testing with representative samples. On-site commissioning establishes actual performance under production conditions.

Jiangsu Jutian Weighing Equipment Co., Ltd. operates under ISO9001-certified quality management. The company holds 68 national patents and 20 software copyrights, with product development led by the 919 R&D Center and manufacturing conducted across two production facilities. The JDW Series is CE certified.

Sorting Mechanism and Mechanical Design

The sorting action is performed at a dedicated diverter station positioned downstream of the weighing zone. Product classification is determined in real time by the controller based on the captured weight relative to preset upper/lower limits. The standard configuration uses a motorized left/right diverter conveyor that guides acceptable products to one lane and non-conforming products to another. For applications involving lightweight flexible packages, pneumatic air blast or push-arm actuators can be specified. The diverter timing is synchronized with product position tracking to ensure reliable separation without line stoppage.

The conveyor frame is constructed from stainless steel 304, selected for compatibility with washdown environments and resistance to corrosion. The weighing section is mechanically isolated from the drive and diverter sections to minimize vibration transmission. Guide rails and product sensors are positioned to accommodate the product size range specified during system configuration.

System Configuration and Production Line Integration

Product parameters are managed through the touchscreen interface, where operators can create, store, and recall settings for multiple SKUs. Each preset includes target weight, tolerance limits, conveyor speed, and sorting action. Changeover between products is executed by selecting the stored preset without mechanical adjustment.

Communication interfaces (Ethernet, RS232, RS485) enable the scale to exchange data with MES, ERP, or SCADA systems. Weight records, timestamps, and sorting outcomes can be transmitted in real time or exported in batch via USB. For lines with centralized production monitoring, the system supports standard industrial protocols configurable during commissioning.

Calibration and Routine Maintenance

Calibration is performed using certified test weights through a guided procedure on the touchscreen. Both single-point and multi-point calibration modes are supported. Belt tension, conveyor alignment, and sensor zero point should be checked periodically as part of routine maintenance. The modular construction allows individual components—belt, diverter actuator, sensors—to be accessed and replaced without disassembling the entire frame.

Typical Application Scenarios

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

How is the sorting mechanism selected for different product types?
Selection depends on product weight, packaging material, shape stability, and line speed. Rigid cartons and bottles are well suited to motorized diverter conveyors. Lightweight flexible pouches may require pneumatic air blast or push-arm actuators to avoid mechanical damage. The appropriate mechanism is confirmed during the engineering review phase based on product samples and layout requirements.

Can the system sort products into more than two categories?
The standard JDW configuration supports two-way sorting (e.g., accept/reject). Multi-grade classification—such as underweight, standard, and overweight into three separate lanes—can be configured with additional diverter stations. This requires extended conveyor sections and is specified at the project definition stage.

How are product parameters managed when running multiple SKUs?
The touchscreen controller stores product presets with name, target weight, tolerance limits, and sorting action. Operators select the active SKU from the stored list, and all settings load automatically. A search function allows quick retrieval by product name. Presets can be exported and imported via USB for backup or duplication across multiple machines.

What communication protocols are supported for integration with factory systems?
Standard interfaces include RS232, RS485, and Ethernet. Protocol adaptation for Modbus TCP/RTU, TCP/IP socket communication, or database direct-write is handled during system configuration. The specific protocol requirements are reviewed with the customer's automation team during the ordering process.

How is the system validated after installation?
Commissioning includes static calibration with certified weights, dynamic testing with actual product samples at production speed, and verification of sorting timing and accuracy. A documented commissioning report can be provided. Ongoing performance verification can be conducted by the customer using retained reference samples and periodic calibration checks.