Parts take the overhead route
September 1st 2008

An overhead system from MCM Conveyors has helped Electrolux improve the handling and transportation of cooker parts at its Spennymoor plant.

The MCM Autotrack 100 Power +Free system was designed to give maximum flexibility and efficiency, with bespoke baskettype jigs suspended from load bars attached to Power + Free trolley sets and conveyed around a series of process/delivery conveyor circuits to designated un-load stations.

From three loading stations, product is routed from one building to an adjacent unit over a 6m gangway, feeding down to five enamel application booths.

Each trolley set carries a common single jig, capable of holding a variety of components in differing quantities according to size. The average number of components carried in each jig is 16 and grouped to five major classifications according to destination.

Working with Electrolux, MCM designed an identification and routing system based on the use of 'coded flags' located on the trolley by two captive pegs and read by strategically-positioned code readers.

The system requires manual setting of each trolley/jig. This provides identification and routing information to the PLC.

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