Blank feeders increase press output rate

Blank feeders that enable users to improve capacity and flexibility have a design based on a high level of component uniformity, which also simplifies service and spare parts management.

Next generation of blank feeders from AP and T gives customers a great advantage.

The new programme covers blank sizes from 200x300mm up to 2.5x4.5m.

"With the new blank feeders, our customers can increase their production rate and shorten adjustment times while gaining a broader program from which to choose," said Per-Arne Mattsson, standard machine production manager at AP and T in Blidsberg, Sweden.

"The design of the new blank feeders is based on modules and a high level of component uniformity," explained Mattsson.

"By using the same components in the different product variants, we were able to broaden the program and make it significantly more flexible and customer specific.

Most of the parts in the blank feeders have been used in our SpeedFeeders for some time.

Thus, the technology is well proven right from the start.

The high level of component uniformity also simplifies service and spare parts management." Giant technical step.

Compared to the traditional method of feeding blanks into a press line, this is a huge change in technology.

Instead of different types of conveyor systems, servo-driven shuttles with grippers are used to both slide the blank through the lubrication unit and to center the blank after lubrication.

As standard, the blanks slide on metal rods.

An option for non-marking wheels is also available to protect sensitive material.

50 percent faster.

The method has several advantages, particularly speed.

Production capacity is increased from 10 to 15 blanks/min and reliability is increased.

Another advantage of the new method is that pallets of blanks do not need to make an "intermediate stop" on the table prior to input.

Thanks to a fast, new two-axis picker with long stroke, the blanks can instead be lifted from the pallet directly from the floor.

The design of the picker also ensures completely uninterrupted production; you can have two pallet locations and load one while the other is in use.

Simpler installation.

The module design has also improved the ability to physically adapt the equipment to the facility where it will be used.

This makes installation simpler with fewer steps and less disruption to production.

Shorter lead times.

"By building the blank feeders with modules and using components that are common to the SpeedFeeder, we have been able to shorten our lead times by 30%," said Mattsson.

"This means that customers get their equipment faster and can get started with production sooner.

We have also been able to lower the price of most models." For new and existing press lines.

The new blank feeders will be available for both new and existing lines.

Mattsson expects that a number of machines will go to customers looking to upgrade their current equipment.

"This will give our customers a great advantage.".

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