Key Technology introduces new features that enhance their vibratory conveyors for food processing and packaging lines.
The equipment producer says that the innovative new grounding arm, label stand-offs, sanitary drives and Vector-Lock™ Gen 2 ease use, reduce maintenance and maximize sanitation.
Key’s grounding arm is made of a single stainless-steel structure. Unlike braided wire rope with crevasses, which can harbor bacteria and a crimped ferrule that can fail, the single structure, smooth texture and open design of the new grounding arm enhance sanitation and improve durability. Mounted to Key’s StrongArm™ spring arms to dissipate static between the conveyor bed and frame, this grounding arm presents no horizontal surfaces where liquid, product or particulates can pool. It comes standard on new conveyors and can be retrofitted to existing systems in the field.
Label stand-offs are superior to traditional riveted plaques, which can trap bacteria, and adhesive stickers, which can peel off after repeated exposure to washdowns. Each conveyor’s identification, specifications and stroke indicator are laser-etched or stamped onto stainless steel and the colorful ISO safety pictogram labels utilize epoxy based baked finish over stainless steel. All these new labels consume less surface area and are attached to the conveyor with stand-offs to reduce laminations, which eases cleaning and improves sanitation.
The oil-free drives that can be used to power Key’s vibratory conveyors have been redesigned. A smaller footprint and a more open mount, which reduce the lamination area, make these maintenance-free drives more sanitary.
The new Vector-Lock Gen 2, used to secure removable screens and covers on Key’s vibratory conveyors, eases use and achieves better clamping. With a larger hook, a bigger radius and additional over-center latching for more positive engagement, this new Vector-Lock clamp enables quick release and quick closing while maximizing load carrying capabilities to secure screens and covers on even the heaviest conveyor systems that handle today’s highest capacities.
All of Key’s vibratory conveyors – Iso-Flo Vibratory Conveyors, Impulse Vibratory Conveyors, Horizon Horizontal Conveyors and Marathon Vibratory Conveyors – are inherently sanitary, presenting a stainless-steel bed surface that is easy to clean. They are backed by Key’s five-year warranty, which ensures equipment reliability and limits the processor’s total cost of ownership.