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Modular conveyor cuts material flow planning times
Published:  27 May, 2014

Interroll, the Swiss internal logistics specialist, has unveiled a modular conveyor platform that it describes as “the most important product introduction” in its 55-year history. The platform can be tailored to suit customer requirements and allows material flow systems to be planned more quickly and easily.

“The complete modularity of our new solution offers important advantages for our customers,” explains Interroll CEO, Paul Zumbühl. “This approach allows them to combine all of Interroll’s most important products in a virtually unlimited manner to form a complete system. New systems can then be planned and realised faster, and existing systems can be modified easily to meet changing demands.

The key to the new platform is a robust, modular system that incorporates the main elements of conveying systems and can be assembled to form complete material flow systems. The modular design cuts delivery times so that new systems can be put into operation quickly. To simplify on-site installation, the modules are largely preassembled. Independently adjustable side guides, steplessly adjustable stands, integrated crossbars for electrical conduit, and universally usable spaces for attachment parts, make installation easier.

There are three standard widths (420, 620 and 840mm), with other widths available as variations. A new software tool simplifies project planning.

The modular kit includes: straight sections and curves, with and without drives; merge components for loading and unloading goods; and alignment and belt conveyors for steep inclines. Zero pressure accumulation conveyors can be achieved using Interroll’s high-efficiency 24V RollerDrives that operate without pneumatic actuators. A 400V drive, optimised for high conveying speeds and goods up to 50kg, is also available.

Interroll's modular conveyor system is largely preassembled for speedy on-site installation

A new cassette-based divert system with throughput rates of up to 3,600 per hour, is available with 24V travel or swivel drives.

The new platform, based on open standards, is said to be future-proof. “As a neutral provider of conveyor modules for system integrators and equipment manufacturers, we have designed the new platform to support open standards with respect to both mechanical and electronic aspects,” explains Interroll Automation’s managing director, Michael Kuhn. “Future-oriented and preinstalled fieldbus systems guarantee interfaces to larger, higher-level systems, with respect to both the electronic hardware and the software.”

Interroll’s aim when developing the new platform was to minimise costs for operators. To reduce downtime, for example, all of the most important maintenance work can be done quickly from the top.

The new platform is compatible with previous Interroll modules, allowing customers to extend or change their existing systems by integrating new modules.