When form and function complement each other, this is the result of intensive development work - as is the case with the new intralogistics roller from Faigle. The expert in high-performance plastics has developed the intralogistics castor specifically for use in parcel and baggage sorting systems. The demands on rollers and guide rollers are high in these applications. Low starting and rolling resistance, good concentricity and high load-bearing capacity are crucial for trouble-free operation of the system.

Less rolling resistance, same load capacity

Recognizable at first glance: the new track and guide roller has been slimmed down. It is narrower than its predecessor model and has a thinner tread - this minimizes rolling resistance. Two components make this "diet" possible: a strength-optimized design and outstanding material properties. To achieve this, the manufacturer combines a polyamide support body with a tread band made of PAS-PU TCS. According to the company, the polyamide support body is just as strong and resilient as the previous castor despite its reduced width. The durable tread is characterized by high abrasion resistance and minimized compression set. Flattening after longer system downtimes, for example during the weekend, is reduced. This reduces the energy requirement when starting up the system.

Successful combination of materials: polyamide and polyurethane

The "faigle dampening system" (FDS) isolates shocks and vibrations from the wheel suspension without affecting rolling resistance. © Faigle Plastics

The choice of material and design of the support body helps to dampen shocks and vibrations in the sorting system. As a result, the new rollers run very smoothly: a basic requirement for the gentle transportation of sensitive goods. Faigle uses injection molding to apply the high-performance PAS-PU TCS running bandage to the carrier body. The injection molding process offers a firm weld between the running bandage and the carrier body and is cost-effective to implement.

In addition, the running surface is ground after application. This gives the castor low-noise and low-vibration concentricity. All materials used can be made electrically conductive on request. Furthermore, the specially developed tread drum material has very good damping properties and is resistant to grease, anti-corrosion agents, weathering and hydrolysis. On customer request, the treadmill support is available in various degrees of hardness from 75 Shore-A to 65 Shore-D.

Integrated cushioning and new design

The company has also developed a unique damping system to ensure almost vibration-free operation of the sorting system. The "faigle dampening system" (FDS) effectively isolates shocks and vibrations from the wheel suspension without affecting the rolling resistance.

Another new feature is its smooth outer contour: the roller does not have the familiar ribs. On the one hand, this reduces the accumulation of dust, effectively preventing dirt pockets. On the other hand, the ribless design supports low-vibration smooth running.