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Caldan floor conveyor at Bowers & Wilkins. High-precision UK installation for automated surface treatment.

Project information

Subject:
Surface treatment line with CALDAN floor conveyor
End user:
Bower & Wilkins Group Ltd.
Installation site location:
United Kingdom
Type of parts to be handled:
Wooden and composite parts for speaker systems
Dimensions of parts (l x w x h):
max. 530 x 850 x 970 mm
Weight of parts:
max. 60 kg per wagon
Overall cycle time:
Variable depending on component loaded
Conveyor speed:
– 15.0 m/min, stop/go process areas, variable
– 4.0 m/min, stop go other areas
Operational capacity per hour:
Variable depending on component loaded
Loading and unloading of parts:
Manually in stop position
Rotation type:
pneumatic during standstill
Areas where rotation is required:
– Load – manual
– Preparation – manual
– Spray booth

CONVEYOR SYSTEM DATA:
Type of system:
P&F120 – Power & Free floor conveyor
Type of chain:
Cardan chain
Wagon design:
8 – wheeled wagon
Length of load bar:
800 mm

SYSTEM LENGTH, TOTAL:
74 m.

 CALDAN / Bowers & Wilkins reference video ⇑ 

P&F120 Floor Conveyor UK | Bowers & Wilkins Case Study

P&F120 – Power & Free floor conveyor in operation @ Bowers & Wilins Group Ltd. 


Case Study: Caldan UK Conveyor Solution for Bowers & Wilkins


Precision engineering for a British audio icon – P&F120 Floor Conveyor in UK

In the world of high-end audio, precision and aesthetic perfection are non-negotiable. When Bowers & Wilkins, the legendary British loudspeaker manufacturer, sought to optimize the surface treatment process for their premium speaker components, they required a partner who shared their commitment to excellence. This project represents a bespoke Caldan P&F120 Floor Conveyor UK installation, specifically engineered to meet the rigorous quality standards of one of the United Kingdom’s most prestigious manufacturing brands.

The challenge: Handling delicate, high-value components

The primary challenge of this project was the nature of the product itself. Bowers & Wilkins produces world-class speaker systems using a variety of sensitive materials, including fine wood and advanced composites.

The requirements were twofold:
1. Surface Integrity: The system had to transport parts through a multi-stage finishing process without any risk of vibration or contamination.
2. Process Flexibility: The manufacturing flow required a system capable of handling weights up to 60 kg while allowing for manual intervention and variable processing times in the preparation and spray booths.

The solution: P&F120 Power & Free Floor Conveyor System

To solve these complex requirements, CALDAN implemented the P&F120 Power & Free floor conveyor. This specific technology was selected for its superior stability and the high degree of control it offers within a UK-based production environment. Key technical features include:

  • Advanced rotation control: The system is equipped with pneumatic rotation capabilities at a standstill. This allows operators 360-degree access during manual preparation and within the spray booth, ensuring a flawless, uniform finish on every speaker cabinet.
  • Variable speed & synchronized flow: Spanning a total length of 74 meters, the conveyor utilizes a sophisticated “stop/go” functionality. This allows for high-speed transportation (up to 15 m/min) between zones, while providing the necessary dwell time in critical process areas.
  • Space-efficient floor integration: By choosing a floor-mounted Power & Free system, we maximized the vertical space within the facility and provided a safer, more ergonomic environment for the Bowers & Wilkins technicians.

Strategic impact on UK production

This Caldan UK conveyor installation has allowed Bowers & Wilkins to maintain their world-renowned artisanal quality while benefiting from the efficiencies of modern automation. The P&F120 system provides the perfect balance between high-capacity industrial throughput and the delicate handling required for premium consumer electronics.

Industry: Audio & Electronics Manufacturing (United Kingdom)
Application: Automated surface treatment and coating
System Type: P&F120 Power & Free Floor Conveyor

Partner with the UK’s Conveyor Experts

From our extensive track record with British manufacturers, CALDAN understands the unique requirements of the UK market. Whether you are looking to optimize a painting line or implement a complex material handling system, our UK-based team offers the expertise and local support to bring your project to life.

CALDAN Conveyor A/S • Roeddikvej 91 • DK-8464 Galten • DENMARK • Tel. +45 8694 7071 • Mail. cc(at)caldan.dk

Part of Axel Johnson International AB