Power & Free (P&F) Conveyor

The Power & Free conveyor is a conveyor system used especially in flexible production lines, featuring two rails (dual track) and carriers that can move independently of one another. Its name comes from the combination of “Power” (the drive track) and “Free” (the free-movement track). This allows parts to stop and start, bypass, be queued at buffer stations and travel at different speeds.

Features

• Dual rail system:

o Power rail: The track containing the chain or drive mechanism.

o Free rail: The track carrying the product trolleys.

• Stop-and-start capability: Even while the chain is moving, the carrier trolleys can be held in place with a stop dog.

• Bypass capability: Certain stations can be skipped, and parts can be routed to different paths.

• Queuing capability: Parts can be accumulated in a buffer zone before assembly or processing.

• High conveying capacity: A single hanger can carry loads between 50 and 1000 kg.

• Flexible line design: Curves, inclines and transitions between floors are possible.

• Automation compatibility: Can operate integrated with PLCs, sensors and robotic systems.

• Low maintenance requirement: Long-lasting chain and rail system even under heavy loads.

Functions

• Stopping/waiting at different stations: Parts can be held for the desired duration during processes such as painting, assembly, welding or quality control.

• Conveying at different speeds on the same line: Some parts can be advanced quickly and others slowly.

• Managing production flow flexibly: Parts can be routed according to order priority or processing time.

• Skipping non-processed parts via bypass: Parts that will not be painted or processed can advance without blocking the line.

• Creating buffer zones: Maintaining uninterrupted production by building up a stock of parts ahead of the oven or paint booth.