The linear feeder is characterised by its highly dynamic movements made possible by the low weight of its moving parts and extremely high load-bearing ability of the suction pads.

The six-stage hydraulic press line made by Schuler Hydrap is used by the air-conditioner manufacturer Trane for manufacturing compact housings for air-conditioner systems. The system has many technical highlights, one of which is the use of variable vacuum frames which permit metal sheets of all sizes to be handled with an adjustable vacuum spider.

Strothmann feeders of the type SFLSM 100RR are used for all handling operations. The metal sheets are loaded into the press line, transferred between the presses and unloaded from the line with grippers equipped with special sheet-metal suction pads of the type SAOF.

The highly dynamic movements of the linear feeders are made possible by the low weight of the moving parts.

The Schmalz sheet-metal suction pads have a special structure on their undersides to permit them to withstand the very high transverse forces which occur during the rapid movements of the feeders.

• Acceleration of the feeders: 10.0 m/s²

• Traversing speed: 3.5 m/s