Ball transfer units are low-friction devices used in specialized conveying systems to move materials in all directions. They consist of a large ball bearing surrounded by smaller ones, mounted on metal runners on the conveyor bed. They are easy to replace and suitable for applications where other devices are not.
A ball transfer unit is a low-friction, omnidirectional material conveying device that is part of specialized conveying systems. The ball transfer unit consists of a large precision ball bearing locked in a metal housing with the top protruding. The bottom edge of the ball bearing rests on a layer of smaller ball bearings, which are also locked into place in the case. This allows the large ball to spin freely in all directions with very little friction. Rows of ball transfer units are mounted inline on metal runners, which in turn are mounted side-by-side on the conveyor bed providing a large area of free-spinning balls over which material can be passed smoothly in any direction .
Conveyor systems are a widely used standard in the material transportation industry, moving tens of millions of tons of different cargoes over vast areas each year. While effective at this task, conventional conveyors have a distinct disadvantage: They can only move material in one direction. Many applications require material to be moved in multiple directions on the conveyor bed, however a single solution is required. The ball transfer unit is one such solution which allows you to move the goods placed on the conveyor bed in all directions.
The ball transfer unit is a relatively simple, non-powered device that relies on the smooth, frictionless motion inherent in free-spinning ball bearings. These devices consist of a large ball bearing enclosed in a tubular casing that is crimped or shrunk on one end of it. This restriction holds the ball bearing captive in the housing while allowing it to rotate freely, with a portion of its surface protruding from the tube. Arranged in a hemispherical cup below the large ball are a layer of smaller balls in constant contact with the bottom surface of the large ball. This allows the large sphere to rotate smoothly in all directions with minimal friction.
Some of these ball transfer units are then mounted on a flat plate or skid. These plates are then arranged in rows against each other on the conveyor bed. This arrangement features a large surface area of free-spinning balls on which the material can be moved smoothly in all directions. Another benefit of the modular nature of these conveyors is the easy replacement of any single ball transfer unit that suffers damage or otherwise becomes inoperative. The low profile and small size of these units also make them ideal for applications where similar devices, such as the mecanum wheel and omni wheel, are not suitable.
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