Authoritative automation for the UK automotive sector
In the demanding environment of automotive component manufacturing, throughput and reliability are the primary drivers of success. For Mitras Automotive Ltd., based in Winsford, Cheshire, the challenge was to implement a robust material handling system capable of managing large-scale plastic and composite parts. This project features a 290-meter Caldan UK conveyor installation, engineered to provide seamless surface treatment for high-volume automotive production.
The challenge: Large-scale component handling
The Mitras facility handles substantial components, including vehicle bumpers, hoods, and side panels, with dimensions reaching up to 3,000 mm in length. The system requirements were rigorous:
1. High load capacity: The conveyor needed to support weights of up to 120 kg per wagon, including jig fixtures, without compromising system stability.
2. Space Management: With a total system length of 290 meters, the layout required precise engineering to integrate into the existing production footprint while maintaining variable cycle times.
3. Ergonomic Loading: The process required manual loading and unloading stations with integrated rotation to ensure ease of use for operators.
The solution: CALDAN P&F140 Floor Conveyor UK
To manage these heavy-duty requirements, CALDAN installed the P&F140 Power & Free floor conveyor. This system is specifically designed for the high-capacity needs of the automotive industry.
Key technical features of this UK installation include:
– Robust wagon design: The 8-wheeled wagon and 3,200 mm load bar provide the necessary stability for transporting oversized composite parts through the treatment line.
– Manual turntable integration: To facilitate efficient loading and unloading, the system incorporates manual turntable units, allowing for the complete rotation of the wagon at fixed stop positions.
– Cardan chain technology: The use of a high-quality cardan chain ensures smooth, continuous operation across the nearly 300-meter track, even under maximum load conditions.
– Operational flexibility: The system supports a variable cycle time, currently optimized at 4.0 minutes to deliver a capacity of 15 wagons per hour, tailored to the specific coating requirements of the plastic components.
Strategic impact on UK manufacturing
By utilizing the P&F140 Floor Conveyor UK system, Mitras Automotive has significantly enhanced its coating line efficiency. This Caldan UK conveyor solution demonstrates the durability and scalability required for Tier 1 automotive suppliers in the United Kingdom, ensuring consistent quality for large-format composite parts.
– Industry: Automotive manufacturing (UK)
– Application: Surface treatment of bumpers, hoods, and panels
– System Type: P&F140 Power & Free Floor Conveyor
Partner with the UK’s Industrial Conveyor Specialists
CALDAN remains a leading provider of automated floor and overhead systems for the British automotive industry. Our project at Mitras Automotive is a prime example of how our P&F140 Floor Conveyor UK technology can be customized to handle the heaviest and largest components in your production line. Contact our UK team to learn more about our automotive-grade conveyor solutions.
