Key debuts new features for its vibratory conveyors

Key Technology has introduced new features for their vibratory conveyors for food processing and packaging lines. These new features for the Iso-Flo, Impulse, Horizon and Marathon models, including a new grounding arm, label stand-offs, sanitary drives and the Vector-Lock Gen 2 clamping system are intended to make the equipment easier to use, reduce maintenance and maximize sanitation.

The new grounding arm is made of a single stainless steel structure. This is designed to be more durable and easier to clean than braided wire rope with crevasses, which can harbor bacteria and a crimped ferrule that can fail, according to Key. This grounding arm presents no horizontal surfaces where liquid, product or particulates can pool and is mounted to Key’s StrongArm spring arms to dissipate static between the conveyor bed and frame. The arm comes standard on new conveyors and can be retrofitted to existing systems in the field.

Key said its label stand-offs are superior to traditional riveted plaques, which can trap bacteria, and are better than 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. These new labels also take up less surface area and are attached to the conveyor with stand-offs to reduce laminations to ease cleaning and improve sanitation.

The drives that can be used to power Key’s vibratory conveyors have also been updated to have a smaller footprint and a more open mount. This reduces 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, has been designed with a larger hook, a bigger radius and additional over-center latching for more positive engagement. The new Vector-Lock clamp enables quick release and quick closing while maximizing load carrying capabilities to secure screens and covers on high capacity, heavy conveyor systems. It is interchangeable with previous generation Vector-Lock screen clamps and compatible with legacy conveyor platforms, so customers with installed systems can upgrade their conveyors in the field.