Blog
Multi-Functional Applications of Trays & Common Use Cases
October 30,2025
Trays are often seen as consumables within the manufacturing supply chain. However, due to their combination of material formulation and structural engineering, they serve as critical, irreplaceable packaging components. Trays can be applied at different stages of production to serve varied purposes—ranging from material protection, automated transfer, to final shipment.
Highlighting Table
Below is a summary of common tray functions, key design considerations, and typical applications:
| Tray Function |
In-Plant Circulation
|
Outbound Shipment |
Automation Line Integration
|
Pre-Shipment Product Protection |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Common Names |
Transfer trays, rotation trays
|
Shipping trays, anti-static tray
|
Automation trays, robotic trays
|
Testing trays, anti-scratch trays
|
|
Functional Focus
|
1.Reusable
2.Stackable 3.Reduce breakage risk |
1.Cleanliness control
2.Drop/ impact resistance 3.End-cutomer ready |
1.Precision alignment
2.Robot arm compatibility 3.Stable part positioning |
1.Reinforced stacking frames
2.Shock-absorting materials 3.Anti-scratch surfaces |
|
Typical Applications
|
Heat sink modules, hinge part, electronics, notebook assembly
|
Heat spreaders, IC trays, eletronic modules, consuner devices
|
Automated/ semi-automated lines, fill lines |
CDMO、IC packaging/ teasting, photonics modules, power eletronics
|
|
Recommended Materials
|
PS、PET
|
PET、PP
|
PS、PET
|
PET、PP、PS
|
1./ In-Plant Circulation Trays
Used for internal movement between workstations, circulation trays are typically reusable, and therefore demand stricter design considerations:
-
Stacking Strength
These trays are often stacked high to save storage space while still loaded with unfinished components. Structural rigidity and non-deformation are critical for maintaining safe circulation.
-
Breakage Resistance
To extend lifespan and minimize tray damage that could affect the parts inside, slightly thicker materials are used, and tray weight tolerance is adjusted based on product weight and dimensions.
2./ Outbound Shipping Trays
Designed for final product delivery, shipping trays must endure transportation stress while keeping products fully protected:
-
Cleanliness Control
Especially for high-precision components, tray surfaces must meet cleanliness standards. Anti-static materials may be required depending on the product and transit conditions.
-
Drop/Compression Testing
Most customers have defined test protocols (drop, clamping, vibration, compression). We customize tray strength requirements based on historical shipping simulation results.
3./ Automation-Compatible Trays
Trays used in automated environments must match the movement logic of customized equipment. No standard dimensions apply.
-
Precision Part Alignment
Machine arms operate on fixed pitch and movement logic. Tray cavities must align precisely and hold parts firmly in place—directional stability may also be required.
-
Robot Compatibility
Whether gripping or vacuum-based pickup, we co-design tray profiles to avoid tool interference and support multi-station transitions using a single tray type.
4./ Pre-Shipment Work-in-Process Protection
Before final delivery, trays may be used to hold, stage, or test parts at different stations.
-
Reinforced Frame Design
In testing environments or staging areas, stackable frames also act as external protection when trays are shuttled across various facilities or departments.
-
Cushioning & Scratch Resistance
Material selection considers both shock absorption and product geometry. Edge sharpness or angular shapes are reviewed to avoid scraping, debris, or particle generation.
“Conclusion｜Protecting Your Products, Not Just Packaging Them”
Although trays are often treated as consumables, their design quality has a direct impact on product protection, handling efficiency, and process reliability.
At Weishin, we approach tray development as part of the overall engineering system—ensuring mechanical strength, cleanroom compatibility, and long-term usability to meet the demands of modern manufacturing environments.