Enhancing Manufacturing Process with Custom Conveyor Solutions for American Feeding Systems
the problem
American Feeding Systems, a leading company specializing in industrial vibratory feeders, required a custom conveyor solution for a new production process involving rubber tubes. The project demanded a conveyor system that could efficiently transport tubes of varying sizes through a hopper system and up an incline to a designated unloading area. The tubes, with diameters of 9.5 mm and widths of 146 mm and 279 mm, needed precise handling to prevent damage and ensure smooth operation throughout the process.
the solution
mk North America designed a custom GUF-P 2000 flat belt conveyor to meet the customer’s specific requirements. Key features of the solution included:
- Durable Belt Design: The conveyor was equipped with a flat belt made from a robust material designed to withstand daily wear and tear.
- Longitudinal Guides: The belt featured continuous longitudinal guides on the belt surface – which ensured scrap materials remained within the middle of the belt and not within the conveyor or on the floor.
- Custom Side Rails: Inset side rails were added to contain scrap while remaining compatible with the belt’s top side guides.
- Non-Magnetic Slider Bed: A non-magnetic slider bed was used to ensure that metallic stamping scraps would not stick to the conveyor, maintaining smooth operation and reducing cleaning requirements.
- Roller Brush Mechanism: A roller brush installed on the underside of the conveyor’s top surface actively removed any metal scraps clinging to the belt, ensuring a clean and efficient process.
- Height and Layout: The conveyor was designed with an infeed height of 3 feet and a discharge height of 4 feet to fit seamlessly within the customer’s stamping operation workflow.
- Specialized Stands: Conveyor stands were designed with a specific inset to accommodate the customer’s existing equipment layout, ensuring smooth integration.
mk North America collaborated closely with the customer, iterating on the design to deliver a solution that balanced their budget with the technical demands of their stamping centers.
the results
The custom conveyor system from mk North America successfully met all of American Feeding Systems’ expectations. The system allowed for the efficient, precise transport of rubber tubes, significantly improving the throughput and reducing downtime in their production line. With mk North America’s solution, the client saw notable improvements in handling efficiency, ensuring that tubes were consistently conveyed and unloaded without issue.
The client also appreciated the robust construction and ease of installation provided by mk North America’s custom design; as they were providing the supports, chutes and system integration. The system was delivered within the 7-week lead time and was shipped in sections for straightforward assembly at the customer’s facility. Additionally, the inclusion of SEW inverter-duty gearmotors and variable frequency drives ensured long-term performance and flexibility in speed control.
the conclusion
mk North America’s customized KFM-P 2040 conveyor system provided American Feeding Systems with an efficient, reliable solution for their rubber tube handling process. The successful partnership between the two companies underscores mk North America’s commitment to delivering tailor-made solutions that improve production efficiency and meet specific application requirements.
If you’re facing a unique challenge in your production process, contact mk North America today to learn how we can help you optimize efficiency and achieve your manufacturing goals.
better products. better solutions.
Contact us at 860-769-5500 or fill out this form to begin an inquiry.
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