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Hygienic IP69K transport system opens up applications

23 May, 2017

At the Hannover Fair, Beckhoff unveiled a stainless-steel version of its XTS (eXtended Transport System) which, it predicts, will open up many new applications, especially in the food and pharmaceutical sector, and for processing and filling liquids. On its stand, Beckhoff was demonstrating how the IP69K-protected Hygienic Design version of XTS can even operate under a continuous water spray.

Beckhoff says that previously it was almost impossible to implement mechanical transport systems in many applications due to their cleaning requirements. The new system will allow many of these processes to be automated.

Beckhoff developed the new version of XTS in co-operation with the European Hygienic Engineering & Design Group (EHEDG). It is said to meet the requirements for system certification to EL Class I AUX. The IP 69K rating guarantees protection against the ingress of dust and water. In addition, the system’s surfaces can withstand surfactants, acidic and alkaline cleaning agents, alcohols and disinfectants, and hydrogen peroxide.

The easy-to-clean system’s design avoids hidden corners, edges or undercuts where debris could accumulate. The mechanical components are made of V4A stainless-steel, while the seals and covers consist of resistant plastic materials. All of the joints are protected by elastic seals. Once installed, the XTS components form a smooth, accessible surface.

This also apply to the movers that transport components. There is an easy-to-clean gap between the rollers and the mover’s body, and the rollers are sealed against the axis to prevent the ingress of dirt and any leakage of bearing grease.

The hygienic version of Beckhoff's XTS linear motor transport system has been designed to be easy to clean

The movers can accelerate at 50m/s2 and hit a top speed of 4m/s. They can deliver a continuous force of 30N (or a maximum of 90N at standstill).

The XTS system replaces mechanics with software functions, allowing designers to come up with new machine concepts. Reduced mechanical engineering requirements simplifies set-ups and saves space, weight and wiring, according to Beckhoff. In addition, compared to conventional transport systems, the XTS is more flexible and needs less maintenance. It allows machine-builders to offer smaller, more powerful and more efficient systems that can improve productivity and lead to faster product changeovers.

On its stand at the Hannover Fair, Beckhoff was demonstrating the stainless-steel transport system operating under a continuous water spray



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