Vending machines come in a wide variety of sizes as well as having a multitude of capabilities. The challenge laid down by a specialist company was to help in the design and manufacture of an ice cream vending machine

The key design features of the machine when in operation were there could be no mechanical field service maintenance. The machine must also cater for a wide range of bin sizes that are able to accommodate for a large variety of product shapes, sizes and weights. Furthermore it had to have guaranteed product delivery, then most importantly operate effectively at temperatures of -24ºC to -29ºC.

These tough machine-operating requirements placed considerable importance on the bearing selection for the robotic pick and place module. After exhaustive research and testing the designers selected the Spyraflo FSSD-250 Self-Clinching, Self-Aligning, Stainless Steel housed, Delrin® bearing. The clinching capability ensures the bearings are securely mounted in the sheet steel chassis, while the additional self-aligning capability makes certain the most economic material and machining solutions could be used. At the same time the bearings guaranteed long life, fast consistent performance, as well as maintenance free life.

The vending machines are now happily bringing cold comfort to many customers bringing new markets and success to the manufacturer.

Micromech is the UK and Eire distributor for these clever bearings, if you would like more information about them or perhaps a sample, then contact Miranda on 01376 333333 or email miranda@micromech.co.uk

‘A revolution in bearing Solutions’