Product Focus
Here are some announcements about conveyors that have recently crossed our editors
Staff -- Modern Materials Handling, 3/1/2002
Zero-pressure accumulation conveyor
The Smart Zone zero-pressure accumulation conveyors utilize photo sensors instead of mechanical sensors for product detection. Product accumulates in zones that generally are one-half to one foot longer than the longest product conveyed, which assures product separation during accumulation. Pneumatic logic components receive a signal from each photo sensor to control the individual zones along each conveyor. Virtually adjustment free, the Smart Zone is controlled by a 24-volt DC power supply.
Roach Conveyors
(870) 483-7631
www.roachconveyors.com
Automatic height adjustments
Skillet conveyor system replaces overhead power and free conveyor systems in automotive and manufacturing environments. The system uses infrared transmitters, which signal the scissor-lift control units to adjust the lifts to programmable operator work heights. Individual skillet lifts automatically move up and down as they pass pre-set elevation change points along the line. The system provides a smooth and quiet operation while enabling ergonomic flexibility for workers.
Dearborn Mid-West Conveyor Co.
(734) 288-4400
www.dmwcc.com
Plug-and-convey system
Accuzone is a zero-pressure accumulation, motorized roller conveyor system that uses modular design techniques, resulting in a true 'plug-and-convey' system. The modular design allows users to configure, install and run the system with less effort compared to traditional conveyor systems. Accuzone offers operating speeds of up to 180 feet per minute and can handle 30-plus cases per minute. The motors only engage when product is present, which reduces energy consumption.
The Buschman Company, an FKI Logistex Company
(513) 874-5251
www.fkilogistex.com
Accumulation conveyor cuts costs
The 25-CREZD is a chain-driven roll-to-roll accumulation conveyor. The conveyor is composed of accumulation zones ranging from 30 inches to 120 inches in length, each with its own drive. The drive is turned off when there are no pallets on the conveyor or when pallets are accumulated, which reduces the operating cost compared to conventional pallet-handling conveyors.
Hytrol Conveyor Co.
(870) 974-5642
www.hytrol.com
Shoe sorter features modular construction
Whispersort is a high-speed shoe sorter whose economical cost and modular construction enable flexible layouts and machine reconfigurations required for future expansion. In addition to its reliability, simplified maintenance and high sort accuracy, the sorter offers gentle product handling at high speed for both light and heavy cartons.
HK Systems Inc.
(859) 334-2400
www.hksystems.com
Photo-eye sensors for lightweight products
The Accuglide zero-pressure accumulation conveyor
features photo-eye sensors, which replace mechanical sensor arms that can
obstruct the flow of lightweight packages. The photo-eye sensors and exclusive
solenoid control module technology allow each zone's operational mode to be set
or changed at any time. Photo-eye sensors are positioned to sense product
height, with no minimum weight restriction. An optional time-delay feature
optimizes accumulation density at slower speeds. FKI Logistex Automation Div.
(513) 874-0788
www.fkilogistex.com
Small products, high sort rate
The NBS 90-SP narrow belt sorter allows for right-angle sortation of small products in either one direction or bi-directionally. Its series of narrow belts, each with individual take-up, lets the system track product as it reaches specified points along the line. Plastisol-coated rollers rise to grip and divert the product in a 90-degree angle in either direction to a conveyor, chute or container. Capable of diverting points as close as 18 inches, the NBS 90-SP can sort products as small as 4 inches by 4 inches, or as large as 13 inches by 24 inches.
Ermanco
(231) 798-4547
www.ermanco.com
Two sorters combined into one
Center row shoe sorter combines two sorters into one unit, doubling capacity in a reduced footprint. Because it can induct or divert two linear lines of product, it can perform multiple functions, such as packaging and shipping, simultaneously. The sorter has a capacity of 460 products per minute and can operate at speeds of more than 500 feet per minute. It utilizes a precision bearing-equipped roller chain to minimize chain pull and power requirements.
Mathews Conveyor, an FKI Logistex Company
(877) 935-4564
www.fkilogistex.com
'T' track conveyor fits tight spaces
S-60 'T' section conveyors feature a compact enclosed-track design that incorporates an overhead conveyor with the stability for inverted and side-loaded configurations. Precision chain design allows for small horizontal and vertical bend radii, suitable for tight layouts. The system offers capacities of 200 pounds per pendant and 2,000 pounds chain pull per drive. The 'T' track construction reduces pinch points and is a clean conveyor in finishing systems. Bolted track sections are modular in design for ease of layout design and assembly.
Pacline
(800) 955-8860
www.pacline.com
Low-profile plastic belt conveyors
MPB series of conveyors merges plastic belt design with low-profile conveyor technology. The low profile – just 2.9 inches high – enables reliable performance where conventional conveyors will not fit. Single-point belt tensioning allows for quick adjustments. Flat top, cleated, and sidewall-cleated models are available. The durometer belting has options for heat, chemical and cut resistance. Aluminum die-cast head plates eliminate painted surfaces.
Dorner Manufacturing Corp.
(800) 397-8664
www.dorner.com
Customize parts flow
Radius turn module can be added to an existing or new installation of the manufacturer's DynaCon Modular Conveyor line. The module allows custom engineering of parts- flow processes to include 45-degree, 90-degree or 180-degree turns. With the module, the system will operate with one continuous belt that moves product left or right and up or down. It is backed with a 5-year warranty.
Dynamic Conveyor Corp.
(800) 640-6850
www.dynamicconveyor.com
Conveyor offers 360-degree accessibility
Inverted power and free unibilt enclosed conveyor increases productivity by making maximum use of available space and improving material flow. It offers nearly 360-degree product accessibility for applications such as robotic assembly. Its clean, inverted orientation allows it to be used in painting and other operations where sanitation is important.
Jervis B. Webb Co.
(248) 553-1220
www.jervisbwebb.com
Accumulation conveyor
Photo-eye accumulation conveyor features a photo-eye/solenoid valve module mounted directly to the conveyor side frame. The module locally monitors and controls each zone. A built-in time-delay feature prevents intermittent slowing of the product load. The photo eye can be skewed horizontally to sense totes or other products that leave gaps between items when accumulated. The conveyor is available in standard configurations, with pop-out roller beds with 2-inch, 3-inch or 4-inch roller centers.
Automotion Inc.
(708) 229-3700
www.automotionconveyors.com
Accumulator offers three power versions
Last-in, first-out (LIFO) Power Sweep accumulator has a compact design suitable for use in small areas. The accumulator utilizes overhead powered flights that contain the row of products while sweeping them off at a right angle. The accumulation storage table can be either powered or static, depending on the product. The accumulator is available in servo-driven, DC- drive or clutch/brake powered versions.
Nercon Engineering & Manufacturing Co.
(920) 233-3268
www.nercon.com
Retractable sensor rollers trim maintenance
A conversion kit for the Accuglide conveyor line replaces mechanical zone-sensor rollers with retractable sensor rollers. This modification uses a pilot-operated valve that retracts sensor rollers when the conveyor is in transportation mode, then releases accumulated product one zone at a time. By retracting the roller, zone actuator cycling is reduced, resulting in lower maintenance requirements and improved product handling. The conversion kit can be installed progressively during scheduled preventive maintenance.
Alvey Systems Inc., an FKI Logistex Company
(800) 325-1596
www.alvey.com
Control logic keeps product moving
'Look ahead' control logic increases throughput rates on the 1265 ESAC electronic sensing accumulation conveyor. The module can be configured to operate in three separate modes: singulation, slug release and 'look ahead.' This system logic prevents the starting and stopping that typically occur in singulation mode. It works by literally looking ahead to the next downstream accumulation zone; if the rollers are activated but the photo eye is blocked, the upstream zone continues to operate, resulting in increased speeds and higher throughput rates.
Siemens Dematic
(616) 913-6525
www.siemens-dematic.com
Plastic stands up to heat
A new plastic material for conveyor rollers has been developed for use in high-temperature and chemical-resistant industrial applications. The material, known as EP-0047, is silicone-free and will endure temperatures of us to 450 degrees F. in continuous use. It is particularly suitable for electronics assembly because it protects from electrostatic discharge.
Shuttleworth Inc.
(219) 356-8500
www.shuttleworth.com
Rollers for most applications
Series 1700 universal conveyor rollers are suitable for almost any application. They are available with several bearing, tube and shaft options. The rollers are equipped with hexagonal and round shafts, and are available in fixed, spring-loaded, threaded and tapered versions. Three bearing styles – commercial-grade, precision, and stainless-steel – are all sealed against dust and dirt.
Interroll Corp.
(800) 830-9028
www.interroll.com



















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