RNA SLK 05 User manual

Operating Instructions
for
Linear Feeders
SLK 05
SLK 1
SLK - N 6
SLK - N 6G
SLK 12

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Table of Contents
1. Technical data........................................................................................................................4
2. Safety directives.....................................................................................................................6
2.1. Applicable directives and standards....................................................................................7
3. Design and functional description of linear feeder..................................................................7
4. Shipment and installation.......................................................................................................8
5. Commissioning.......................................................................................................................9
5.1. Feeder speed decreases? ................................................................................................11
5.2. Feeder speed increases? .................................................................................................11
6. Feed rail design rules...........................................................................................................12
7. Maintenance.........................................................................................................................12
8. Spare parts and customer service........................................................................................12
9. What if... (Advice on troubleshooting) ..................................................................................13

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Declaration of Incorporation
according to Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC
We,
Company Rhein-Nadel Automation GmbH
Reichsweg 19-23
52068 Aachen
Germany
herewith declare under our sole responsibility that with regard to the following product:
Machine designation: (function)
Linear feeder
Type designation:
SL(…)
GL(…)
all relevant essential safety and health requirements of Directive 2006/42/EC have been fulfilled up to the
battery limits.
The product to which this declaration refers is furthermore in conformity with following directives and
standards or other regulations:
2006/42/EC Machinery
2006/95/EC Low Voltage
2014/30/EU Electromagnetic Compatibility
EN 614-1 2006+A1:2009 EN ISO 13857 2008
EN 619 2002+A1:2010 EN ISO 14120 2015
EN 620 2002+A1:2010 EN 60204-1 2006
EN ISO 12100 2010
The relevant technical documentation has been compiled in accordance with Annex VII B of the Machinery
Directive and on request, such documentation will be transmitted to the competent authorities in hard copy.
Nico Altmeyer, Rhein-Nadel Automation GmbH, Reichsweg 19-23, 52068 Aachen
(Name and address of person authorised to compile the relevant technical documentation)
Notice: This machine must not be put into service until the complete system into which it will be
incorporated has been declared to be in conformance with the provisions of the Directive.
Signatory information
Name: Grevenstein
Given name: Jack
Position: Managing Director
Germany
Aachen,
Place and date
Signature

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Notice
All linear feeders listed in this table shall be operated only in conjunction with an RNA control unit and
with a mains voltage of 230 V / 50 Hz. For special voltages and frequencies please refer to the
separate data sheet.
1. Technical data
Linear feeder type
SLK 05
SLK 1
SLK-N 6
SLK-N 6 G
SLK 12
Dimensions L x W x H
in mm
210 x 50 x 86
305 x 123 x
104
410 x 162 x 143
600 x 196 x
143
515 x 203 x
164
Weight
in kg
2.8
7.8
22.3
34.2
33
Degree of protection
IP 54
IP 54
IP 54
IP 54
IP 54
Connecting cable length
in m
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
1.5
Power input (1)
in VA
16
44
250
250
484
Current input (1)
in A
0.07
0.2
1.25
1.25
2.2
Nominal magnet voltage (1) / frequency
in V / Hz
200 / 50
200 / 50
200 / 50
200 / 50
200 / 50
Number of magnets
1
1
1
1
1
Magnet type
WS 3 / 25
ME 1/100/120
YZAW 080
YZAW 080
ME 12/50/60
Magnet colour
black
brown
red
red
brown
Air gap
in mm
0.8
1.0
2.5
2.5
3.5
Vibration frequency
in Hz-1
100
100
50
50
50
Number of spring packs
2
2
2
2
2
Standard spring set
No. of springs per pack
1 x 1.0
1 x 1.0
1 x 3.0; 1 x 2.5
2 x 2.5
2 x 3.5
1 x 3.5; 1 x 2.0
2 x 3.5
1 x 3.5; 1 x 2.0
1 x 3.0; 1 x 3.5
1 x 3.0; 2 x 3.5
Spring dimensions
Length (borehole gauge) x width
in mm
55(46) x
42
73(59) x 85
108(90) x 120
108(90) x
120
128(107) x
160
Spring thickness
in mm
0.5; 0.8;
1.0
2.5; 3.0
2.0; 3.5
2.0; 3.5
3.0; 3.5
Spring material
V2A
Plastic
Plastic
Plastic
Plastic
Property classes of spring fastening
bolts
8.8
8.8
8.8
8.8
8.8
Tightening torque of spring fastening
bolts
in Nm
8
15
30
30
60
Max. weight of vibrating units (linear
rail), depending on mass moment of
inertia and desired feeder speed
in kg
1.0
1.3 - 3.4
5 - 8.5
5 - 8.5
12 - 18
Maximum rail length
in mm
350
400
800
800
1,000
Max. useful weight of the linear feeder
in kg
1.0
1.3 - 3.4
5 - 8.5
5 - 8.5
12 - 18
(1) For special connections (voltage / frequency) see rating plate on the magnet

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Pin assignment
With jumper: The jumper must be inserted between connections 3 + 4.
M20 gland
grey-2 100 Hz vibration frequency
black-1 50 Hz vibration frequency
Metal EMC gland for frequency-controlled
systems
Vibratory
feeder load
Mode of operation
Vibration frequency
With jumper: 100 Hz
Without jumper: 50 Hz
Coding in connector

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2. Safety directives
We have taken great care in design and manufacture of our linear feeder in order to ensure smooth and safe
operation. You, too, can make an important contribution towards safety at work. We therefore ask you to read the brief
operating instructions completely prior to commissioning the system. Observe the safety directives at all times!
Make sure that all persons working with or at the equipment also read the following safety directives carefully and
follow them!
These Operating Instructions only apply to the equipment types indicated on the cover page.
Notice
This hand indicates useful tips for operation of the linear feeder.
Attention
This warning triangle indicates safety notices. Non-observance of such warnings may cause serious
injury or even death.
Machine hazards
•Hazards arise mainly from the electrical components of the linear feeder. If the linear feeder comes into contact
with moisture or liquids there is risk of electric shock.
•Make sure that protective earthing of the power supply system is in perfect condition!
Intended use
The intended use of the linear feeder is the driving of feed rails. They serve for linear transfer as well as correctly
oriented and metered supply of bulk products.
Intended use also includes observance of the operating instructions and compliance with the maintenance rules.
For the technical data of your linear feeder please refer to 'Technical Data' in Section 1. Make sure that the rating data
of the linear feeder, control system and power supply are compatible.
Notice
Operate the linear feeder in perfect condition only.
Never operate the linear feeder in areas subject to explosion hazards or in wet areas.
Operate the linear feeder only in the configuration of drive unit, control unit and vibratory system agreed with the
manufacturer.
The linear feeder must never be subjected to any loads other than the parts for which this special type has been rated
and dimensioned.
Attention
It is strictly forbidden to disable any guards or safety devices!
Equipment user's duties
•Observe the directives given in the operating instructions for any kind of work (operation, maintenance, repairs,
etc.).
•Refrain from any working practice that affects the safety at the linear feeder.
•Make sure that only authorised personnel work at the linear feeder.
•Give immediate notice to the management of any changes that have occurred on the linear feeder affecting
safety.

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Attention
The linear feeder must be installed, put into operation and maintained by professional personnel
only. Observe the legally binding provisions for the qualifications of qualified electrical workers and
instructed workers as defined by standards IEC 364 and DIN VDE 0105, part 1.
Caution: Electromagnetic field
Magnetic fields may affect a cardiac pacemaker. Therefore, persons wearing a cardiac pacemaker are
recommended to keep a distance of at least 25 cm.
Noise emission
The noise level at the place of use depends on the complete line into which the hopper will be incorporated and on the
material to be conveyed. For this reason, sound pressure levels in accordance with the 'Machinery' directive can only
be determined at the place of installation. If the noise level at the place of use exceeds the permissible, sound-
insulating hoods can be installed which we can offer on request.
2.1. Applicable directives and standards
The linear feeder has been manufactured in accordance with the following directives:
2006/42/EC Machinery Directive
2014/35/EU Low Voltage Directive
2014/30/EU Electromagnetic Compatibility Directive
We assume that our product will be incorporated into a stationary machine.
The applicable standards are specified in the Declaration of Incorporation (according to Annex II B of the Machinery
Directive).
3. Design and functional description of linear feeder
Intended use of linear feeders is the feeding of parts. The driving force is provided by an electromagnetic coil. The
figure below is a schematic representation of a linear feeder:
The linear feeder belongs to the family of vibratory feeders, but produces a straight-line motion. Electromagnetic
oscillations are converted into mechanical vibrations that are used for conveying a material B. When current is applied
to magnet D which is rigidly connected to counter mass F, the magnet exerts a force which attracts and releases
armature E in synchronism with the mains frequency. Within each period of the 50 Hz A.C. mains supply, the magnet
will achieve its maximum power of attraction twice as this force builds up independently of the current flow direction.
Accordingly, the vibration frequency is 100 Hz in this case. If one half-wave is removed, the vibration frequency is 50
Hz. The vibration frequency of your linear feeder is indicated in the 'Technical data' table in Section 1.
A linear feeder is a resonant system (spring-mass system). As a result, its factory set-up will rarely meet your on-site
requirements. Section 5 describes in detail how you can adapt the feeder to your specific requirements.
The linear feeder is controlled by a low-loss electronic control unit (type ESG 2000 or ESG 1000). The linear feeder
control unit is supplied loose (not installed). The controller has a 5-pin connector on its front panel for connection to the
linear feeder.
For assignment of the socket pins refer to the technical data in Section 1.
Notice
For comprehensive information on the full range of control devices please refer to the 'Control Units'
operating instructions.
A Feed rail and vibrating mass
B Parts handled
C Spring pack
D Drive magnet
E Armature
F Exciter mass
G Shock absorber

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All control units have two essential operating elements:
•The power switch is used to energize and de-energize the linear feeder.
•A rotary knob (or buttons) can be used to set the feed rate of the system.
Frequency controller: Tuning of the linear feeders can also be done by means of frequency controllers. For detailed
description of the tuning procedure refer to the frequency controller operating instructions.
4. Shipment and installation
Shipment
Notice
Take care that the linear feeder cannot collide with other objects during handling operations.
For the weight of the linear feeder please refer to the table titled 'Technical Data' in Section 1.
Shipment ex works
The linear feeders are delivered ex works in a box or crate.
On-site moving
The weight of the linear feeder depends on its dimensions and motor rating. Please refer to the shipping documents
for the weight of your specific equipment.
Attention
Check all guards when unpacking. Replace any damaged parts before commissioning!
Attention
For lifting the conveyors be sure to use only sufficiently dimensioned vehicles, ropes, chains and
sling gear.
Attention
Handling operations to be carried out only by employees who are capable of performing such
work due to their own knowledge and experience in this field.
Warning
Warning against suspended loads

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Installation
The linear feeder should be mounted on a stable substructure (available as an accessory) at the point of use. This
substructure must be dimensioned to ensure that no vibrations from the linear feeder can be transmitted.
Fix the linear feeder to the shock absorbers (part G in overview drawing of Section 3) from below. Following table
gives an overview of the drilling data for the drive units used:
Linear feeder type
Length
in mm
Width
in mm
Shock absorber thread
SLK 05
180
35
M 4
SLK 1
200
70
M 4
SLK-N 6
270
100
M 6
SLK-N 6 G
270
100
M 6
SLK 12
345
140
M 6
Table: Drilling data
Make sure that the linear feeder cannot touch other devices during operation.
For further details on the control unit (drilling template, etc.), please refer to the separate operating instructions manual
of the control unit.
Attention
The linear feeder is intended to complete / to be incorporated into a complete system. Do not
operate the machine before safe completion/incorporation by the user.
5. Commissioning
Attention
Make sure that the machine frame (rack, substructure, etc.) is connected to the protective earth
conductor (PE). Protective earthing has to be provided by user as necessary.
Make sure that:
•the linear feeder is arranged freely without contact to any solid body
•the linear rail is properly aligned and firmly bolted in place
•the linear feeder connecting cable is plugged into the control unit.
Attention
Electrical connection of the linear feeder must be made by trained professional electricians only! When
making any change to the electrical connection make absolutely sure that the 'Control Units' operating
instructions are duly observed.
•The available electricity supply (frequency, voltage, power) must correspond to the connection data of the
control system (see rating plate on the control unit).
Plug the cable of the control unit into a power socket and operate the power switch to energize the control unit.
Notice
For linear feeders that are supplied as a completely set-up system the optimum feed rate has been
factory-set. It is marked with a red arrow on the dial of the rotary knob. In this case set the rotary knob
to this mark.
Optimum tuning is achieved when the desired feed rate is obtained with a control unit setting of 80 %. In case of larger
deviations (> +/- 15%) you should re-tune the system.
Adjusting the feeding behaviour
Notice
As a first step, make a rough adjustment of the feeder speed (by tuning the natural frequency). Then
tune the feeding behaviour of the system. As the last step, fine-tune the feeder speed (natural
frequency).

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For linear feeders without counterweight the feeding speed at the exit end is always higher than that at the entry end.
This can be seen from the fact that the vertical amplitude of the feed rail is larger at the exit end. This difference in
speed can be compensated by mounting a counterweight. This counterweight increases the counter mass of the linear
feeder and can be mounted in accordance with following sketch:
U
R
G
H
T
W
V
Type
SLK 1
SLK - N 6
SLK 12
G
10
20
10
H
45
65
2 x 50
R
24
40
40
T
40
80
80
U
M 8
M 10
M 10
V
200
340
390
W
40
80
80
The size of the counterweight must be determined through trials. Linear feeders of types SLK 05 and SLK - N 6 G
come with a factory-mounted counterweight.
To achieve a uniform feeding speed adjust the feed rail as follows:
•If the vertical amplitude of the feed rail is larger at the exit end than at the entry end, you must either mount a
counterweight or move the installed counterweight all the way outward in the oblong hole. For type SLK 05
weight plates must be mounted in addition. If this is not sufficient, an additional counterweight must be mounted.
•If the vertical amplitude of a feed rail with mounted counterweight is smaller at the exit end than at the entry end,
proceed in opposite manner.
Tuning the natural frequency
Linear feeders supplied without a rail are factory-tuned for average weights of the vibrating units. To ensure optimum
feeding behaviour the linear feeder has to be fine-tuned for the actual local operating conditions. Tuning is done by
adding or removing leaf springs and spacers. First check that the correct control unit is connected (see table
'Technical Data' with frequency, voltage and power ratings in Section 1).
Now perform following steps:
•Firmly tighten all spring and rail fastening screws. For the tightening torques of the spring fastening screws
please refer to the table titled 'Technical Data' in Section 1.
•Check that the magnet is compatible with the voltage and frequency ratings specified under Technical Data.
•Measure the air gap. Adjust the air gap to the correct setting if it doesn't match the values specified under
Technical Data.
•Fill the feed rail with product and set the feeding capacity to 90% via the rotary knob of the controller.
•Slowly loosen one of the bottom fastening screws on one spring pack (by about a quarter turn or half turn).
If no change in the feeding speed can be detected after loosening the first screw, slowly loosen another bottom
fastening screw.
When you loosen the spring fastening screw you can observe a change in feeder speed.
The following graph shows the resonance curve of a linear feeder:

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Notice
The resonance frequency of the linear feeder must not be equal to the mains frequency.
If the feeder speed decreases after you loosen the spring fastening screw, please proceed as described in section
5.1.
If, on the contrary, the feeder speed increases, proceed as described in section 5.2.
Notice
Tuning is facilitated by the use of an electronic frequency converter available from our range of
accessories.
The vibratory feeder should be tuned so that the desired feeder speed is obtained with a controller setting of approx.
80%.
5.1. Feeder speed decreases?
Install additional springs (including spacers). Start by adding one spring to one spring pack. If the feeder speed
continues to decrease after you loosen a fastening screw anew, install an additional spring with spacers in the second
spring pack. When using springs of differing thicknesses make sure that the thinnest spring rests against the contact
surface.
5.2. Feeder speed increases?
Remove springs (including spacers). Start by removing one spring from one spring pack. If the feeder speed continues
to increase after you loosen a fastening screw anew, remove springs one by one progressively.
When mounting or removing additional springs, make sure that the engagement depth of the spring fastening screws
corresponds to 1.5 - 2 times the screw diameter. For the tightening torque of spring fastening screws refer to section 1
'Technical data'.
Notice
If the rotary knob on the controller is set to 100% and the air gap correctly set, the magnet must not hit
the armature upon power-on. If it does, proceed as described under section 5.2. (removal of springs)
Objective of the tuning procedure:
When the desired feeder speed is obtained at a controller setting of 80 %, the feeder speed must always decrease
when the spring fastening screw is loosened.
Notice
See to it that one third of the spring force is installed in the entry-end spring pack and two thirds of the
spring force in the exit-end spring pack.
The spring force of a spring increases to the square of its thickness. For example, a 3.5 mm strong spring has a spring
force similar to that of two springs of 2 mm thickness each combined with two springs of 1.5 mm thickness each,
whereas a 4 mm strong spring corresponds to a combination of four springs of 2 mm thickness each.
A Feed rate
B Resonance frequency of the system
C Resonance curve (not true to scale)
D Spring force (number of springs)

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6. Feed rail design rules
For feed rail projections in longitudinal direction of the vibratory unit observe a ratio of 1/3 on the entry end to 2/3 at
the exit end.
The design of the rails must provide maximum stability. Upright profiles of high section modulus are to be preferred (U
profiles, square tubes etc.).
In particular, rails used for feeding thin product such as punched parts etc. should have the largest possible clearance
between product and cover. However, it must be ensured that the product does not pile up or gets jammed.
Take care to locate the rail as precisely on the center of the vibratory unit as possible. Rails projecting on one side of
the vibratory unit may have to be balanced using counterweights.
7. Maintenance
Linear feeders basically require no maintenance. They should be cleaned when soiled or after coming into contact with
liquids.
•Before starting such work be sure to pull the mains plug.
•Clean the inside of the linear feeder, and in particular the air gap of the coil.
•After plugging in the mains plug the linear feeder is again ready for operation.
Attention
For installation, maintenance and repair work all poles of the power supply must be disconnected from the
linear feeder in compliance with VDE provisions. Any work on electrical equipment of the linear feeder
shall be carried out exclusively by a professional electrician, or by instructed persons (see chapter 2)
working under the direction and supervision of a professional electrician, according to electrotechnical
rules.
Attention
Be careful when working on linear feeders! The magnets can get hot during operation. Therefore let
magnets cool down before working on them. If this is not possible, take suitable protective measures such
as the use of gloves.
Attention
If any guards have been removed, be sure to fit them back in place!
8. Spare parts and customer service
For an overview of genuine spare parts available please refer to the separate spare parts list. In order to make sure
that your order is processed swiftly and correctly please specify the device type (see rating plate), the quantity
required, the spare part designation and the spare part number.
For a list of Service Center addresses refer to the back cover page of this manual.

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9. What if... (Advice on troubleshooting)
Attention
Only professional electricians are allowed to open the control unit or connector. Pull the mains plug
before opening!
Fault
Potential cause
Remedy
Linear feeder does not
start on power up
Power switch off
Mains connector of control unit not plugged-in
Connecting cabled between linear feeder and control
unit not plugged-in
Defective fuse in control unit
Close power switch
Plug in the mains connector
Plug 5-pin connector into control unit
Replace fuse
Only slight feeder
vibration
Rotary knob on control unit set at 0 %
Wrong vibration frequency
Attention
If you operate the linear feeders of type SLK 05
and SLK 1 without having inserted the jumper in
the 5-pin connector, there is a risk of damage to
the controller and magnet!
Set control unit to 80 %
Check that coding in plug connector of the
linear feeder is correct (see rating plate and
'Technical Data' (Section 1))
The linear feeder no
longer meets the
required feed rate after
prolonged operation.
Fixing screws of linear rail have come loose.
Screws of one or both spring packs have come
loose.
Misadjusted coil-to-armature gap
Broken springs
Re-tighten the screws
Tighten screws (for tightening torques see
'Technical Data' in Section 1).
Readjust the air gap (for gap size see
'Technical Data' in Section 1).
Replace broken springs
Linear feeder makes
loud noises
Foreign matter in air gap
Stop linear feeder and remove foreign matter.
Then check the coil-to-armature gap.

RNA Group
Headquarters
Manufacturing and Sales
Rhein-Nadel Automation GmbH
Reichsweg 19-23
D-52068 Aachen
Phone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
E-mail: [email protected]
www.RNA.de
Further RNA group companies:
Manufacturing and Sales
Focus: Pharmaceutical Industry
PSA Zuführtechnik GmbH
Dr.-Jakob-Berlinger-Weg 1
D-74523 Schwäbisch Hall
Phone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
E-mail: [email protected]
www.psa-zt.de
Manufacturing and Sales
RNA Automation Ltd.
Unit C
Castle Bromwich Business Park
Tameside Drive
Birmingham B35 7AG
United Kingdom
Phone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
E-mail: [e-mail]
www.rnaautomation.com
Manufacturing and Sales
HSH Handling Systems AG
Wangenstr. 96
CH-3360 Herzogenbuchsee
Switzerland
Phone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
E-mail: [e-mail]
www.handling-systems.ch
Manufacturing and Sales
Pol. Ind. Famades c/Energia 23
E-08940 Cornella de Llobregat (Barcelona)
Spain
Phone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
E-mail: [e-mail]
www.vibrant-RNA.com
www.vibrant.es
Further manufacturing sites
of the RNA Group
Manufacturing
Lüdenscheid branch
Rhein-Nadel Automation GmbH
Nottebohmstraße 57
D-58511 Lüdenscheid
Phone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
E-mail: [e-mail]
Manufacturing
Ergolding branch
Rhein-Nadel Automation GmbH
Ahornstraße 122
D-84030 Ergolding
Phone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
E-mail: [e-mail]
Manufacturing
Remchingen branch
Rhein-Nadel Automation GmbH
Im Hölderle 3
D-75196 Remchingen-Wilferdingen
Phone: [phone]
E-Mail: [e-mail]