Automated Separation of Materials and Bundles
Separate material bundles automatically and without damage for the next stage of processing. MSG Solutions develops custom singulation systems that reliably separate tubes and profiles while simultaneously capturing their geometry. Benefit from digital twins and immediate quality assessment of length or straightness from the very first process step.
What Does Singulation Mean in Production?
Definition: From Bundle to Individual Piece
Singulation refers to the process of separating materials from a collective state (bundle, package, magazine) into individual units. In steel and pipe production, for example, pipe bundles are separated into individual pipes to subsequently process, inspect, or package them. Reliable, automatic singulation is the decisive pacemaker for the entire subsequent production line.
Our Singulation Solutions in Detail
Bundle Singulation for Pipes and Profiles
Our bundle singulation systems separate pipes, profiles, and bars from bound packages into individual pieces. The systems work automatically and material-friendly: lifting mechanisms, separating strips, and controlled rolling systems ensure that each part is singulated in a controlled manner without surface damage. The systems can be designed for different diameters, lengths, and material thicknesses.
Magazine Singulation and Controlled Feeding
For smaller diameters and bars, we offer magazine singulation systems that remove material from bulk magazines or storage containers in a controlled manner and feed them in single layer to the line. Sensors monitor the entire process and ensure that exactly one part is always provided at the right time in the right position.
Robot-Assisted Singulation
For particularly sensitive materials or complex geometries, we use industrial robots with special grippers for singulation. Image processing systems detect the position and orientation of parts, the robot grips individual pieces and positions them precisely for the next process step. This solution is particularly flexible and can be converted for different product types.
Inline Measurement Technology from Singulation Onwards
MSG Solutions integrates measurement technology directly into the singulation process: straightness measurement during transport, GMS-E for cross-section geometry at pipe ends, or length measurement for immediate sorting. This gives you digital quality documentation for every individual part from the very first process step – without additional inspection stations and without cycle time loss.
Singulation – Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What does singulation mean in industrial manufacturing?
The separation of materials from a collective state (bundle, magazine, batch) into individual units. MSG Solutions develops automatic singulation systems that work material-friendly and process-safe.
What materials can be singulated?
Pipes, profiles, bars, sheets, and semi-finished products made of steel, stainless steel, aluminum, and other materials – in various diameters, lengths, and wall thicknesses.
How is it ensured that material is not damaged during singulation?
Through material-specific separation methods, controlled speeds, special supports, and sensor monitoring. We tune every parameter to your surface and material requirements.
Can singulation systems be integrated into existing lines?
Yes, our systems are compact with standardized interfaces. They are integrated as an entry stage before existing processing or inspection lines.
Can measurement technology be integrated directly into the singulation system?
Yes, this is a core competency of MSG Solutions. Straightness measurement, cross-section measurement (GMS-E), and length measurement can be integrated directly into the singulation process – for a digital twin from the first step.
How fast do the singulation systems work?
Depending on material and geometry: typical cycle times are 3–15 seconds per part. The systems are precisely dimensioned for your required output.
How long does realization take?
Standard singulation in 2–3 months, complex systems with robotics and measurement in 3–6 months. Pre-assembly and testing at our Schmallenberg facility minimize commissioning time.