Does the QFT15-18 Brick Machine Support Fully Automated Pallet Handling and Curing

For project managers and plant owners evaluating high-output concrete forming equipment, automation level is often the deciding factor between profitability and operational bottleneck. The QFT15-18 Brick Making Machine has gained significant attention for its heavy-duty vibration system and servo-drive control. However, the most frequent question from serious buyers is not about raw cycle speed, but about end-to-end automation—specifically, whether this model can handle pallet logistics and curing processes without constant manual intervention. The short answer is yes, but the real value lies in how this automation is implemented. At Silver Horse, we have configured dozens of QFT15-18 Brick Making Machine lines with fully integrated pallet systems, and the operational data shows a 40% reduction in labor dependency when the curing yard is properly synchronized.

Understanding the Automation Architecture

The QFT15-18 Brick Making Machine is designed as a modular system. Its core unit—the main forming machine—features a PLC-based control panel with HMI touchscreen. Automation for pallet handling and curing is not a single built-in feature but a scalable ecosystem. The machine supports three distinct automation tiers:

The QFT15-18 Brick Making Machine at its full tier supports synchronized pallet return, meaning after demolding, the empty pallets are automatically routed back to the feeder station. This closed-loop system eliminates idle pallet waiting time, which directly improves the machine's theoretical cycle rate of 15–18 seconds per batch.

Key Components for Fully Automated Curing

To achieve true automated curing, the QFT15-18 Brick Making Machine must be paired with three auxiliary systems, all of which Silver Horse supplies as optional packages:

1. Pallet Stacker & Destacker – Hydraulically operated units that can handle up to 15 pallets per stack. They are synchronized with the main machine's discharge conveyor.

2. Transfer Cart (Rail-Guided) – This moves the freshly molded green blocks from the machine's roller conveyor to the curing yard or kiln entrance. The cart uses laser-guided positioning with ±2mm accuracy.

3. Curing Chamber Controller – A separate module that monitors temperature (35°C–65°C) and humidity (85–98% RH) for accelerated steam curing. This controller communicates with the main PLC via Modbus TCP/IP.

Operational Fact: With the full automation package, a single operator can manage the entire curing cycle from the central control room, including setting curing duration (typically 6–8 hours for high-strength concrete pavers) and adjusting steam injection intervals.

Practical Benefits and Performance Metrics

Plants that have retrofitted their QFT15-18 Brick Making Machine with automated pallet handling report the following measurable improvements (based on Silver Horse field data from 12 installations in 2025):

The integration also reduces human-related quality defects. Since the transfer cart moves green blocks smoothly without jerking, micro-cracks in green compacts are virtually eliminated—a critical advantage for high-spec engineering bricks.

FAQ – Common Questions About the QFT15-18 Brick Making Machine Automation

Q1: Does the QFT15-18 Brick Making Machine require a separate power supply for the pallet handling system?
A1: Yes, the auxiliary pallet handling and curing system operates on a dedicated 380V/50Hz three-phase supply, separate from the main machine's 45kW main motor. However, Silver Horse provides an integrated distribution cabinet that coordinates both power inputs with a master safety interlock. The total connected load for the full automation package is approximately 68kW, but the actual consumption during normal operation averages 52kW due to servo-driven conveyors that only draw power during movement. We strongly recommend a voltage stabilizer if your site has frequent fluctuations, as the PLC and sensors are sensitive to drops below 360V.

Q2: Can I retrofit automated curing onto an existing QFT15-18 Brick Making Machine that was bought as a semi-auto version?
A2: Absolutely. The QFT15-18 Brick Making Machine is engineered with backward-compatible I/O ports and mechanical mounting points for stackers, transfer carts, and steam nozzles. Retrofit typically takes 5–7 working days, including software reconfiguration of the PLC. Silver Horse offers a retrofit kit that includes all sensors, cables, and a new HMI screen with updated curing logic. The only site requirement is an additional 12m² floor space adjacent to the machine's discharge side. We have successfully retrofitted units that were over 4 years old, so age is not a limiting factor.

Q3: How does the automated curing system handle different block types (e.g., hollow vs. solid vs. pavers) on the same QFT15-18?
A3: The curing controller stores up to 50 recipe profiles. When you change molds on the QFT15-18 Brick Making Machine, the operator simply selects the corresponding recipe on the HMI. For hollow blocks (lower density), the system reduces steam pressure and extends curing time to avoid surface flaking. For solid pavers (high density), it applies a rapid ramp-up stage (from ambient to 60°C in 90 minutes) to achieve early strength. The transfer cart's speed is also automatically adjusted—slower for tall hollow blocks to prevent toppling, and faster for squat pavers. Silver Horse provides a pre-loaded recipe library with 12 standard profiles, and you can create custom profiles with password-protected access.

Why Choose Silver Horse for Your Automation Integration

While the QFT15-18 Brick Making Machine is a robust platform, the success of full automation depends entirely on system engineering—sensor calibration, conveyor alignment, and software logic tuning. Silver Horse has a dedicated automation team with over 200 cumulative project man-years. Our packages include on-site commissioning, operator training, and a 24-month warranty on all automation components (excluding consumables like pallets and steam nozzles).

Furthermore, our remote diagnostic tool allows our engineers to monitor your curing parameters in real-time and push firmware updates over VPN, minimizing downtime. We have seen too many plants purchase "automation-ready" machines from generic traders only to struggle with integration for months. With Silver Horse, every QFT15-18 Brick Making Machine automation project starts with a site survey to map your layout, power capacity, and climate conditions—ensuring the system works from day one.

Ready to Automate Your Production Floor?

The QFT15-18 Brick Making Machine is capable of world-class automated pallet handling and precision curing, but the final result depends on the expertise behind the integration. Whether you are building a greenfield plant or upgrading an existing line, Silver Horse provides turnkey solutions tailored to your output targets and budget. We offer free feasibility simulations, detailed CAD layouts, and ROI projections within 48 hours of your inquiry.

Contact us today—our engineering team is standing by to review your project specifications and deliver a customized automation proposal for your QFT15-18 Brick Making Machine. Send us your site layout and production goals, and we will show you exactly how to cut labor costs while raising quality standards. Reach out via our website, email, or WhatsApp for a prompt response. Let Silver Horse help you build smarter, faster, and more profitably.