Feeding parts manually is most beneficial for loading a low volume of complex parts at a slow speed. On the other hand, for large-scale productions, using automated feeding systems is more cost-effective. Manual feeding of bulk minute workpieces is a repetitive task that can be physically taxing for the workers when done for long periods. Because of that, frequent breaks are inevitable, which negatively affects productivity.

Elscint offers a wide selection of machines for automating small parts handling. We have been in the business for four decades, and have highly skilled engineers designing our equipment. With the highest quality standards, we guarantee our customers the best parts feeding solutions they can find.

Benefits of Automatic Feeding of Parts

In addition to boosting work productivity, here are other benefits of automating parts feeding:

Sanitary Working Environment

Having workers handle bulk parts manually can create a messy environment. Spills are more likely to happen in manual loading of parts to machines than in automated systems. With automated parts feeders, the risk of contamination is also lower since the workers hardly come in contact with the materials and the machine components.

Safer Working Conditions

Lifting heavy loads is an ergonomic hazard. Leaving bulk parts loading and feeding for automated systems reduces the risk of a worker injuring a hand, back, or limb.

Effective Utilization of Manpower’s Skills and Talents

Automating parts feeding frees workers from simple and monotonous tasks. That way, workers can gain more knowledge and do more valuable types of work, which can significantly contribute to the business’s success.

Types of Feeder Systems for Automated Assemblies

There is a wide range of automated feeding systems available on the market, and choosing the most suitable parts feeding system for the application is critical to a successful operation. Some factors to consider when selecting a parts feeding system include each part’s shape, geometry, size, loading speed, and orientation. The location and size of the parts feeding system should also be considered.

Here are common types of feeder systems for automated assemblies.

Vibratory Bowl Feeders

A Vibratory Bowl Feeder

Vibratory bowl feeders are circular, inclined tracks used in aligning and feeding bulk components into subsequent processing lines. They are widely used in handling parts in the automotive, cosmetics, electronics, pharmaceutical, and packaging industries, to name a few.

Linear Feeders

A Linear Feeder

Linear feeders are vibratory inline tracks that move parts. They can also be stationary, relying on gravity to transport parts to subsequent operations. Sometimes, they are placed after a vibratory bowl feeder.

Rotary Feeders

A Rotary Feeder

Rotary feeders or centrifugal feeders are ideal for very high-speed orientation and feeding of parts. They are equipped with double disks, with the outside disk rotating faster than the inside disk, which creates a centrifugal force that efficiently moves parts. They can also handle a variety of parts with simple tooling changeovers.

Conveyor Systems

A Conveyor

Hand-carrying too heavy and bulky materials can be time-consuming and are prone to accidents. Conveyor systems use belt systems to efficiently transport parts from one workstation to another. They come in varying lengths and speeds, depending on the application’s requirements.

Automating parts feeding may require high upfront costs, but its benefits far outweigh its disadvantages. With increased productivity and lower occupational health costs because of a more efficient and safer working environment, the business can be more profitable in the long run rather than sticking to manual systems. Furthermore, seeking help from an experienced, reliable, and well-respected supplier such as Elscint will bring you in the right direction. Do not hesitate to contact us for any inquiries!