Automatic vs Manual Precision Fluid Dispensing

All Unist Precision Fluid Dispensing systems allow for control over fluid dispensing rate, airflow (when applicable), and fluid volume. Depending on your application and requirements, this control can be automatic or manual.

Automatic systems

An automated dispensing system can consist of either a digital-controller-based, fully automatic system or a basic mechanical system with actuation control.

Digital-controller-based system - uses onboard digital circuitry to control actuation of the dispenser, control fluid dispensing, track fluid dispensed, and to store settings for individual jobs. This type of dispenser allows for more automation and has some obvious benefits:

• Active monitoring: Uses sensors to continually monitor fluid dispensing.
• Job storage: Allows operators to store specific settings as 'jobs.'
• Integration: Allows for communication to/from existing equipment/line controllers. I.e.- If the line encounters an issue, the automated liquid dispensing equipment can be programmed to automatically stop.
• Alerts: Operators receive notification if dispensing issues arise. I.e.- Low fluid level alarm.
• Fluid usage tracking: Measure and store data on the amount of fluid dispensed

Basic mechanical system with actuation control - Can be used as a semi-automated fluid dispensing system where starting/stopping dispensing is controlled through solenoid valves wired to simple switches in the production line. This type of dispenser can be automatically actuated but adjusting fluid-delivery settings requires manual interaction.

• Inexpensive compared to a digital-controller-based system.
• Integration is relatively easy and straightforward.
• Start/Stop dispensing based on input from the production line
• Make changes to dispensing volume changes manually

Manual systems

A manual liquid dispenser dispenses fluid with precision but relies on operators to physically interact with its controls to both actuate dispensing and change dispensing settings.

This type of system can be manually actuated via a switch or manual air valve and is a solid choice for processes where automation is not required or economically justified.

• Most economical solution for precision fluid dispensing
• Little-to-no integration effort required - mount the system and start dispensing.
• Dispensing volume and air settings (where applicable) must be changed manually.
• Basic stop/start of dispensing can be automated by the addition of solenoid valve(s).

Which type of system do I need?

In a nutshell, an automated dispensing system reacts to changes in your production line, gives you the ability to automatically adapt to the dispensing requirements of ever-changing jobs, and alerts operators to problem conditions. While an automated system eliminates the need for operators when it comes to dispensing, a manual dispensing system relies on operator action when it comes to setting fluid values or stopping/starting the dispensing process.

If your dispensing process features job changeovers and/or process monitoring is a concern, an automated dispensing system is likely your best choice. If you have a dedicated dispensing process that will never change and monitoring is not a priority, a manual dispensing system or a manual dispensing system with solenoid actuation will do nicely.

Unclear what type of system you need or have more questions?  Contact us for more information.