Frequency controller is major leap forward for parts feeding

Citation

(1998), "Frequency controller is major leap forward for parts feeding", Assembly Automation, Vol. 18 No. 1. https://doi.org/10.1108/aa.1998.03318aad.001

Frequency controller is major leap forward for parts feeding

Frequency controller is major leap forward for parts feeding

A new range of products launched by RNA Automation is a further innovation in the control of parts feeding that will give enormous benefits in the automation industry. The ESR range of frequency controllers for vibratory feeders provides major advantages for companies which have a requirement for feeding ranges of components where frequent changes of bowl tops are needed ­ or those which have particularly difficult-to-feed parts.

Conventionally, bowl and linear feeders work on a fixed frequency of 50 or 100Hz, with the speed of movement of the components being controlled by the amplitude of vibration, a function of electromagnetic drive voltage. Fine tuning of the feeder to provide optimum performance is a skilled and specialized operation, involving many adjustments such as changing the bowl weight or adjusting or changing springs. However, all of this can now be eliminated by the use of the RNA frequency controller. Operators of installations where feeders have interchangeable bowls or rails for different components can now adjust the operating frequency in a matter of seconds, eliminating downtime and ensuring that optimum performance is maintained.

RNA's frequency controller for vibratory feeders

The ESR 01 control unit for both bowl and linear feeders provides an output frequency adjustable from 30-140Hz and voltage from 0-210 volts. It has a programmable soft start and conforms to CE regulations. The output wave form is almost a perfect sine wave, which enables the feeder to operate quietly.

Set up is easy, with the parameters for ramp times, amplitude (speed), and start/stop delay times all pushbutton controlled, with values shown on an LED screen. It is also possible to select local or remote control of speed settings via external potentiometer or 0-10 volt signal. ON / OFF remote control is via 12-24V DC or volt-free contact. An additional frequency controller, type ESR25, can be supplied as a fully automatic unit, which hunts for, and maintains, optimum frequency at all times.

For further details contact RNA's sales office, Tel: 0121 749-2566; Fax: 0121 749 6217.