(Applied Manufacturing Technologies: Orion, MI) -- Applied Manufacturing Technologies (AMT), a North American leader in automation engineering specializing in advanced material handling, end-of-line solutions, on-demand engineering services, and autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) for manufacturing, warehousing, and logistics, has announced the deployment of four robotic roll-handling systems designed for converting industry applications.

The systems are in production at a leading Midwest packaging converter and reflect AMT’s continued focus on solving complex material handling challenges with flexible, safety-driven automation. Long known for its work in palletizing, autonomous mobile robot (AMR) integration, and advanced robotics for material handling, AMT is applying this expertise to coil and roll automation, which are critical steps in converting operations where manual handling remains a significant bottleneck.

“Roll handling is one of the most physically demanding and risk-prone tasks in manufacturing,” says Craig Salvalaggio, president of AMT. “We’ve engineered systems that reduce that burden, improve throughput, and allow customers to redeploy labor where it matters most. It’s a practical solution to a persistent problem.”

“These roll handling systems were designed to support the real-world demands of production with multiple roll types, pallet configurations, and integration with existing automation,” says Tom Marx, sales account manager at AMT. “Our focus was on adaptability and ease of use, ensuring operators can manage changeovers without additional engineering support.”

Designed for flexibility, the systems support a wide range of roll sizes and pallet formats. Each deployment features programmable control through HMI or pendant, automatic tool-changers, and integration with barcode scanning, vision, and infeed/outfeed equipment. Options include seamless support for AMRs, conveyors, or forklift interfaces, allowing customers to design for their facility, not around it.

These roll handling systems build on AMT’s broader experience in developing integrated material handling solutions that combine robotics with sensing, motion control, and system-level coordination. Previous projects have included thermoformed product handling, machine tending, and line-side transfer, which apply similar engineering principles to address complex payloads, layouts, and operating environments. To explore system features and see roll handling solutions in action, visit AMT’s robotic roll handling systems page.

Upcoming industry event

AMT will exhibit in booth  No. 121 at the 2026 Converters Expo in Green Bay, Wisconsin, on April 15, 2026, further demonstrating its commitment to supporting roll and coil handling automation in the converting space.