THE ZE3000 FLEXIBLE VIA STANDARD COMPONENTS
RNA has introduced the ZE3000 capable of handling a wide range of components, from valves and spray caps, to electrical connectors at high feed speeds (>2000 parts per minute), single or multiple lanes are possible with quick and easy change over between components. The tracks are machined and designed specifically to suit a component. Interchangeable tooling sections allow the feeding of a range of components with minimum down time between product changeover. The ZE is supplied with a bulk hopper that can be orientated through 180 degrees to specifically suit the customers' layout and floor space. The photo shows a ZE3000 unit handling a 23mm diameter x 18mm tall aerosol actuator cap at 2000 + parts per minute. Fitted with a bulk hopper that has a very low loading height of 600mm, components are easily loaded by an operator and elevated to the top of a linear track. The linear track is designed on CAD and laser cut to orientate the caps as they are transported along 8 lanes, then merged to single lane via a centrifugal disc. Compressed air is not used for orientation purposes. The use of 8 tracks allows the speed of individual lanes to be reduced, virtually eliminating the risk of damage to product and contributing to lower noise levels. The ZE3000 has the advantage of fast and simple changeover, no use of pneumatic air for orientation and open style tooling for easy access for operators, maintenance and cleaning purposes. The linear feeder arrangement allows high feed speeds to be achieved using a single unit rather than multiple bowl feeders and with the combined bulk hopper the system has a relatively small footprint. The ZE system is made up from the proven equipment range of RNA standard products. This makes it possible for all important parts of the system including hopper, linear vibrator and recirculation to be manufactured in a quick and cost-effective manner.