The innovative new K3 vibratory feeder features a unique, patent-pending drive system combined with an advanced control package. It is able to achieve accuracies averaging 35% better over traditional technologies. Coperion K-Tron’s patented load cells and KCM controller ensure high accuracy feeding while the easy clean design of the vibratory tray ensure quick and easy product changeover. Specialty control algorithms permit the vibration method of feeding, without interrupting the loss in weight signal, in order to control rate of feed and optimize coating performance.
The key to achieving such high accuracy is the ability to deliver a continuous, even mass flow with minimal pulsations. The new K3 vibratory drive is able to do this thanks to a completely new shock absorber design. Conventional vibratory feeders use rubber or spring shock absorbers, which allow movement of the drive in all directions, resulting in rotational motion. In contrast to these conventional shock absorbers, the new K3 line uses a unique flexible pendulum technology which provides shock absorption only parallel to the desired direction of motion, eliminating rotational movement. This parallel motion ensures an even material flow of the product along the entire length of the tray.
The advanced control system and feeder electronics include internal sensors which measure acceleration, displacement, load, current and temperature at rates of up to 25,000 times per second. The fast-acting controller then adjusts the vibratory drive signal to maintain clean sinusoidal displacement for optimal mass flow. The combination of this unique drive with the Coperion K-Tron SmartConnex control system also results in extremely low energy consumption as compared to other feeding technologies. Power consumption can be as low as 20 Watts for feed rates as high as 6,000 kg/h, thus making it ideal for improved production sustainability and minimal heat dissipation!
