Four return system options for Ott edgebanders — from compact vertical return for smaller shops to fully-engineered robotic arms for high-volume production. Each system integrates directly with the edgebander controls and shares the same factory-trained service support from NuTek Machinery.
A return system transforms an edgebander from a two-person operation into a single-operator (or zero-operator) production cell. Three reasons shops add them.
One operator can run the entire edgebanding operation instead of two. Reassign the second operator to higher-value tasks elsewhere on the shop floor.
Automated return systems run continuously without operator-induced delays. Most shops see 20–40% throughput improvement when moving from manual handling to a return system.
Automated panel handling reduces edge damage from drops, scratches from manual sliding, and contamination from operator handling. Quality goes up, rework goes down.
Each system handles a specific production scale, panel size range, and floor layout. We help you choose based on your panel sizes, throughput targets, and floor plan.
Full-production conveyor return with rotation and pairing capability.
TransEdge is the highest-capacity return system in the Ott lineup. Conveyor-belt return with integrated panel rotation, optional automatic stacking station compatibility, and the unique ability to pair two edgebanders into a single production cell for continuous double-sided processing.
For high-volume cabinet shops, commercial casework producers, and OEM manufacturers running production at scale, TransEdge is the platform that turns an Ott edgebander into a full production cell.
Space-efficient vertical return for shops with limited floor space.
TransLift returns panels by lifting them over the edgebander, eliminating the floor space needed for a conveyor that runs alongside the machine. Ideal for shops that need automated panel return and rotation but don't have the floor area for a side-mounted conveyor system.
Fully integrated with the edgebander control system, the TransLift handles smaller panels at moderate production volumes — and fits where larger systems can't.
Conveyor-based return optimized for moderate production volumes.
TransCompact is a conveyor return system designed for shops that need automated handling but don't require the full capacity of the TransEdge. Larger panels exit at the machine end via an unloading table with side rollers and a lifting device for ergonomic operator handoff.
For mid-size cabinet shops and millwork producers, TransCompact provides automated return at a more accessible scale than the full TransEdge platform.
Fully customer-engineered automation for high-volume and complex production.
For shops with unique panel sizes, specialized handling requirements, or production volumes that exceed the standard return systems, Ott offers a Robotic Arm return system engineered to the customer's specific floor plan and panel mix. Customer-specified maximum panel size, conveyor belt return, part rotation, and stacking station configurations.
Each Robotic Arm installation is engineered as a project — not a product. NuTek works with Ott engineering in Lambach to design the system around your production needs, then handles installation and factory training in North America.
A direct comparison of the four systems to help narrow down which one fits your production scale and floor plan.
| System | Max Panel Size | Max Weight | Rotation | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| TransEdge | 3600 × 1600 mm | 120 kg | Included | High-volume production, paired edgebander setups |
| TransLift | 1300 × 3000 mm | 60 kg | 90°–180° | Limited floor space, vertical return needed |
| TransCompact | 2400 × 800 mm | — | Manual handoff | Moderate volume, ergonomic large-panel handling |
| Robotic Arm | Customer-specified | 120 kg | Included | Custom production, unique panel mix, high volume |
TransStart automated infeed compatibility is required for full integration with return systems. The four Ott models that support TransStart can pair with any of the return systems above. Pacific Plus and Tornado Plus are standalone edgebanders without automated return system integration.
| Edgebander Model | TransStart Ready | Return System Compatible |
|---|---|---|
| Pacific Plus | No | Standalone |
| Tornado Plus | No | Standalone |
| FlexEdge | Yes | All four systems |
| Storm Plus | Yes | All four systems |
| StrongEdge | Yes | All four systems |
| TopEdge XS · S · L | Yes | All four systems |
Choosing between return systems comes down to your panel sizes, throughput targets, floor plan, and growth roadmap. Schedule a consultation and we'll walk through your specific production needs to recommend the right configuration.