Efficient material flow, thanks to Kanban components

The Kanban principle is usually used to optimise material supply in assembly and production processes. Workpieces and assembly material are supplied to the individual process stations via flow racks with roller tracks or roller conveyors. "This ensures fast and efficient provision of material in accordance with production control," says mk. "By avoiding unnecessary lifting tasks, there is also less strain on the employees."

Roller tracks are used in flow racks or Kanban racks to ensure that the handling cases and cardboard boxes are transported safely. They are available in lengths of up to 4500 mm. The roller spacing is either 33 mm or 49.5 mm. In the case of longer roller tracks or higher loads, it is advisable to place profiles underneath for support. The rollers are mounted on steel axles and are available with and without flanges.

mk gravity roller conveyor

This application uses mk’s RBS-P 2065/2066 gravity roller conveyor, which is described as ideal for use as a roller carrier transporting material flows between picking stations. Depending on the total load and the required spacing, rollers with dimensions from 20 to 50 mm can be selected. An inclination of 1–2° usually ensures a reliable component feed. “Over longer lines and steep inclines, it is possible to reach high speeds,” mk advises. “In this case, the kinetic energy requires a damped deceleration.”

The mk roller conveyor system with gravity drive (RBS) is typically used in industrial applications for semi-automatic interlinking at picking stations or kanban shelves.

Extremely flexible and suitable

“An extensive selection of roller types makes the system extremely flexible and suitable for a wide range of applications,” says the company. The conveyors are available in both straight and curved configurations. “The roller diameters of 20, 40 or 50 mm ensure that both large and small workpieces can be transported reliably and without interruption.”

The longitudinal slots in the profile beams can be used to attach side rails, stands, sensors and other accessories. Products can be transported along a decline either by hand or using gravitational force.