
Rhein - Nadel Automation GmbH 1 Stand 14.04.2014
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Operating instructions
Linear feeder
SLK 05
SLK 1
SLK - N 6
SLK - N 6G
SLK 12
Rhein-Nadel Automation GmbH

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Contents
1 Technical data Page 3
2 Safety instructions Page 4
3 Construction and function of the linear feeder Page 5
4 Transport and mounting Page 6
5 Starting/Adjustment Page 6
6 Specifications for the design of the track Page 9
7 Maintenance Page 9
8 Stockkeeping of spare parts and after-sales service Page 9
9 What is to do, if....? Page 10
Instructions for trouble-shooting
Declaration of conformity
as defined by
Low voltage directive 2014/35/EU
Herewith we declare that the product complies with the following provisions:
Low voltage directive 2014/35/EU
applied harmonized standards: DIN EN 60204 T1
remarks:
We assume that our product is to be integrated in a fixed machine.
Rhein-Nadel-Automation
-------------------------------Managing Director
Jack Grevenstein

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All linear feeders listed in the table may only be operated in connection with a RNA control
unit at a mains voltage of 230V/50Hz.. Special voltages and frequencies see separate data
sheet.
Magnet nominal voltage (1)/Frequency
Number of spring assemblies
Standard no. of springs
Number per spring assembly
1 x 3,0; 1 x
3,5
1 x 3,0; 2 x
3,5
Spring dimensions
Length (gauge for boreholes) x width
Quality of the spring fastening screws
Tightening moment of the spring fastening
screws
Max. weight of the oscillating units (linear
track) depending on the mass moment of
inertia and required running speed
approx.kg
Maximum useful weight of the linear feeder
(1) At special connecting values (voltage/frequency) see type plate at the magnet

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Pin assignment
2 Safety instructions
The conception and production of our linear feeders has been carried out very carefully, in order to
guarantee trouble-free and save operation. You too can make an important contribution to job safety.
Therefore, please read this short operating instructions completely, before starting the machine.
Always observe the safety instructions!
Make sure that all persons working with or at this machine carefully read and observe the following
safety instructions!
This operating instruction is only valid for the types indicated on the front page.
This hand points to information that gives you useful tips for the operation of the linear feeder.
This warning triangle marks the safety instructions. Non-observance of these warnings can
result in serious or fatal injuries!
Dangers occuring at the machine
The most dangerous parts of the machine are the electrical installations of the linear feeder. In
case the linear feeder gets wet, there is the danger of an electric shock!
Make sure that the protector ground of the electric power supply is in perfect condition!
Intended use
The intended use of the linear feeder is the actuation of conveying tracks. These are used for linear
transport and feeding of correctly positioned mass-produced parts, as well as for the proportioned
feeding of bulk material.
The intended use also includes the observance of the operating and servicing instructions.
Please take the technical data of your linear feeder from the table "technical data" (see chapter 1).
Make sure that the connected load of the linear feeder, control unit and power supply is compatible.
The bridge has to be installed
in connection 3+4

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Notice
The linear feeder may only be operated in perfect condition!
The linear feeder may not be operated in the explosive or wet area.
The linear feeder may only be operated in the configuration drive unit, control unit and oscillating unit,
as specified by the manufacturer.
No additional loads may act upon the linear feeder, apart from the material to be transported, for
which the special type is designed.
It is strictly prohibited to put any safety devices out of operation!
Demands on the user
For all activities (operation, maintenance, repair, etc.) the details of the operating instructions must be
observed.
The operator must avoid any working method which would impair the safety of the linear feeder.
The operator must take care that only authorized personnel works at the linear feeder.
The user is obliged to inform the operator immediately about any changed conditions at the linear
feeder that could endanger safety.
Attention
The linear feeder may only be installed, put into operation and serviced by expert personnel.
The binding regulation for the qualification of electricians and personnel instructed in electrical
engineering is valid, as defined in IEC 364 and DIN VDE 0105 part 1.
Since the electromaget-field may have an impact on persons arrying pacemakers it is
recommended to keep a minimum distance of 25 cm.
Noise emission
The noise level at the place of operation depends on the complete equipment and the material to be
transported. The determination of the noise level according to the EC-Regulations "Machinery" can
therefore only be carried out at the place of operation.
If the noise level at the place of operation exceeds the limit permitted, noise protection hoods may be
used, which we offer as accessory parts (see catalogue).
Standards and regulations
The device was built according to the following standards and regulations:
Low voltage directive 2014/35/EU
EMC directive 2014/30/EU
We assume that our product is to be
integrated in a fixed machine. The provisions of the EMC directive 2014/30/EU has to be considered
by the user.
Applied harmonized Standards
EN 60204, T.1

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3 Construction and function of the
linear feeder
Linear feeders are used for the actuation of conveying equipments. The actuation takes place by an
electromagnet. The following schematic diagram shows the function of a linear feeder:
The linear feeder is a device of the familiy of vibratory bowl feeders. It is, however, equipped with a
linear conveyor. Electromagnetic vibrations are converted into mechanical vibrations and are used for
conveying material B. If magnet D, which is fixedly connected with the counter-mass F, is supplied
with current, it generates a power that, dependent on the vibration frequency of the mains supply,
attracts and releases armature E. Within a period of the 50 Hz of the A.C. network the magnet
achieves its maximum power of attraction twice, as this is independent of the direction of the current
conduction. The vibration frequency therefore is 100 Hz. In case a half-wave is locked, it is 50 Hz.
Please take the vibration frequency of your linear feeder of the table "technical data" in chapter 1.
A linear feeder is a resonant system (spring-mass-system). The result is that the adjustment made at
the factory will rarely meet your requirements. Chapter 5 describes in detail how your linear feeder is
adapted to your requirements.
Controlling of the linear feeder takes place by a low loss electronic control unit type ESG N 80 or type
ESG 90. The control unit of the linear feeder is separately delivered. At its front panel it is provided
with a 7-pole plug-in connection, by which it is connected to the linear feeder.
The pin assignment of the socket is shown in the table "technical data" (chapter 1).
Detailed information on the complete range of control units may please be taken from the
operating instructions for control units.
All control units have got two main operating elements:
By the mains switch the linear feeder is switched on or off.
By the turning knob the conveying capacity of the transport unit is set.
4 Transport and mounting
Transport
Take care that the linear feeder cannot dash against other things during transport.
The weight of the linear feeder is please taken from the table "technical data" (chapter 1).
A Conveying track and oscillating weight
B Material to be conveyed
C Spring assembly
D Drive magnet
E Armature
F Counter-mass
G Shock absorber

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Mounting
The linear feeder should be mounted on a stable substructure (available as an accessory part) at the
place where it is used. The substructure must be dimensioned in a way that no vibrations of the linear
feeder can be carried away.
Linear feeders are fastened to the shock absorbers from below (part G in the general drawing chap.
3). The following table will give you a summary of the bore data of the various types:
Table bore data
Make sure that the linear feeder cannot come into contact with other devices during operation.
Further details on the control unit (bore plan, etc.) are please taken from the operating instructions of
the control unit separately delivered.
5 Starting
Ensure that the frame ( stand, base, frame etc.) is connected with the ground wire. (PE) If
necessary, predection earthing on spot should be provided.
Notice
Ensure that the frame ( stand, base, frame etc.) is connected with the ground wire. (PE) If
necessary, predection earthing on spot should be provided.
Ensure that the frame ( stand, base, frame etc.) is connected with the ground wire. (PE) If
necessary, predection earthing on spot should be provided.
Check, whether
the linear feeder stands in an isolated position and does not come in contact with a solid body
the linear track is fixedly screwed down and adjusted
the connecting cable of the linear feeder is plugged in at the control unit.
Attention
The electric connection of the linear feeder may only be made by trained personnel
(electricians)! In case modifications are made at the electric connection, it is absolutely
necessary to observe the operating instructions "control units".
The available supply voltage (frequency, voltage, output) is in accordance with the connection data
of the control unit (see type plate at the control unit).
Plug in the mains cable of the control unit and switch on the control unit by the mains switch.

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At linear feeders which are delivered as a completely adjusted system, the optimal conveying
capacity is already set at the factory. It is marked on the scale of the turning knob with a red
arrow. In this case set the turning knob to the marking.
The optimal operative range of the linear feeder is at a controller position of 80% at the control unit.
In case of higher deviations (15%) a readjustment should be carried out.
Adjustment of the running behaviour
At first a rough adjustment of the conveying speed (adjustment of the natural frequency) must
be made, which is followed by the adjustment of the running behaviour. Finally you adjust the
conveying speed (natural frequency).
At linear feeders without counterweight the running speed at the discharge side is always higher than
at the feeding side. This is recognized by the vertical amplitude of the conveying track, which is
higher at the discharge side. By attaching a counterweight this speed difference can be seen. The
counterweight increases the countermass of the linear feeder and can be installed according to the
following sketch:
The size of the weight must be determined in a test. The linear feeders type SLK 05 and SLK-N6G
are already equipped with a counterweight in the factory.
During the adjustment of the conveying track to a steady running speed the following must be carried
out:
If the vertical amplitude on the conveying track is higher at the discharge side than on the feeding
side, a counterweight must be installed or the existing counterweight in the longholes must be
completely drawn to the outside. With SLK 05 additional weight plates have to be fitted. In case
this is not sufficient, an additional counterweight must be mounted.
If the vertical amplitude at the discharge side is lower than at the feeding side, with a
counterweight already mounted, the procedure is vice versa.

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Adjustment of the natural frequency
In case the linear feeders are delivered without track, they have been adjusted in the factory to
average weights of the oscillating elements. In order to guarantee an optimal conveying behaviour,
the linear feeder must be adjusted to the definite operating conditions.
The adjustment is made by adding or removing leaf springs and washers.
First check, whether the right control unit (frequency, voltage, power supply, (see table "technical
data" in chapter 1) has been connected.
Carry out the following steps:
Tighten all spring fastening screws and track fastening screws. Please take the tightening
moments of the spring fastening screws from the table technical data (chapter 1).
Check, whether the magnet corresponds to the specifications in the "technical data" (voltage,
frequency).
Measure the magnet-air gap. In case it differs from the specifications in the "technical data", adjust
it correctly.
Fill the tracks with material to be conveyed and turn the turning knob of the control unit to 90 % of
the conveying capacity.
Loosen a fastening screw at one of the spring assemblies (approx. 1/4-1/2 rotation).
In case the difference in the running speed is not recognized during loosening of the first screw, a
further lower fastening screw must slowly be loosened.
While the spring fastening screw is loosened, you can see a change in the conveying speed.
The following graphic chart shows the resonance curve of a linear feeder:
Notice
The resonant frequency of the linear feeder may not correspond to the mains frequency.
In case the conveying capacity decreases after loosening the spring fastening screw, proceed as
described under point 5.1.
In case, however, the conveying capacity, increases, proceed as described under point 5.2.
Notice
The adjustment is, however, more easy by using an electronic frequency converter, which you
can buy from our range of accessory parts
The linear feeder should be adjusted that the required conveying capacity is achieved at a controller
position of approx. 80% at the control unit.
A Conveying speed
B Resonant frequency of the system
C Resonance curve (not true to scale)
D Spring power

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5.1 The conveying speed decreases?
Mount additional springs (with distance plates). Start with one additional spring (with washer) at one
spring assembly. Start with one additional spring at one spring assembly. In case the conveying
speed still decreases, although an additional fastening screw is loosened, install one additional spring
with washer at the second spring assembly (one after the other). When using springs of different
size, it must be taken care that always the thinnest spring closely fits to the contact surface.
5.2 The conveying speed increases?
Remove the springs (with washers). First remove one spring from one spring assembly. In case the
conveying speed still increases, although an additional fastening screw is loosened, remove further
springs (one after the other).
When installing additional springs it must be taken care that the thread reach of the spring fastening
srews corresponds to the 1.5-2-fold of the screw diameter. The tightening torque of the spring
fastening screws is please taken from the "technical data" (chap. 1).
At a turning knob position of 100 % at the control unit and correctly adjusted magnetic gap the
magnet may not dash against the armature when switching on the device. In case this is the
case, proceed as described under point 5.2. (remove springs)
The aim of the adjustment is:
If the required conveying speed is achieved at a controller position of 80 %, the conveying speed
must always decrease when the spring fastening screw is loosened.
Take care that 1/3 of the spring power is mounted at the feeding side and 2/3 of the spring
power at the discharge side. Adjustment of the linear feeder type GL 01:
The spring power of a spring increases with the square of its thickness. A 3.5 mm spring eg. has a
similar spring power as a combination of two springs at 2 mm thickness and two springs at 1.5 mm
thickness; a 4 mm spring corresponds to a combination of four springs at 2 mm thickness.
6 Specifications for the design of the track
The projection of the track in longitudinal direction towards the vibrator should be at a ratio of 1/3
feeding side to 2/3 discharge side.
The tracks must be of solid construction. upright beams with a high moment of resistance should be
preferred (U-beams, rectangular tubes, etc.).
Especially tracks for thin material as eg. stamped metal parts, etc. should be manufactured with the
greatest possible clearance between material to be conveyed and cover. Here it must, however, be
guaranteed that the material to be conveyed does not run one piece on top of the other or becomes
wedged together.
The track should be located in the middle of the vibrator. Tracks projecting over the vibrator on one
side must if necessary be provided with counterweights.

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7 Maintenance
The linear feeders are generally maintenance-free. They should, however, be thoroughly cleaned in
case they are considerably dirty or after fluids have been spilled over them.
For that first unplug the mains plug.
Clean the inside of the linear feeder, especially the magnetic gap.
After the mains plug has been plugged in, the linear feeder is ready for operation again.
8 Stockkeeping of spare parts and
after-sales service.
The range of the spare parts available may be taken from the separate spare parts list. In order to
guarantee quick and faultless handling of the order, please always state the type of equipment (see
type plate), number of pieces needed, spare part name and spare part number.
You will find a list of our service addresses on the back page of the cover.
9 What is to do, if... (Instructions for trouble-shooting)
The control unit or the connecting terminal box may only be opened by an electrician. Before
opening the a.m. devices, the mains plug must be unplugged!
Linear feeder does not
start when being switched
on
Mains switch off
Mains plug of the control unit is not plugged in
Connecting cable between linear feeder and
control unit is not plugged in
Fuse in the control unit defective
Switch on the mains switch
Plug in the mains plug.
Plug in the 5-pole plug at the control unit
Linear feeder vibrates
slightly
Turning knob at the control unit is set to 0%
Wrong vibration frequency
Attention:
in case a linear feeders SLK 05 and SLK1
are operated without a bridge in a 7-pole
plug, the control unit and the magnet is in
danger!
Set the controller to 80%.
Check, whether the code in the plug of the
linear feeder is correct (see type plate and
"technical data" (chap. 1)
After a longer operating
time the linear feeder
does no longer come up
to the conveying capacity
required
Fastening screws of the linear track have
worked loose
Screws at one or two spring assemblies have
worked loose
Magnetic gap misadjusted
Springs are broken
Tighten the screws (tightening torques see
"technical data" (chapt. 1)
Replace the broken springs
Linear feeder produces
loud noise
Foreign bodies in the magnetic gap
Switch off the linear feeder and remove the
foreign bodies, after that check the magnetic
gap adjustment
Linear feeder cannot be
adjusted to a constant
conveying speed
The spring constant of the oscillating system
has changed. The linear feeder works close to
the resonance point
Readjust the linear feeder. Springs must be
removed. See chapt. 5, adjustments

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Rhein-Nadel Automation GmbH
Reichsweg 19/23 D - 52068 Aachen
Tel (+49) 0241/5109-159 Fax +(49) 0241/5109-219
Internet www.rna.de Email vertrieb@rna.de
Rhein-Nadel Automation GmbH
Zweigbetrieb Lüdenscheid
Nottebohmstraße 57 D - 58511 Lüdenscheid
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Email werk.luedenscheid@rna.de
Rhein-Nadel Automation GmbH
Zweigbetrieb Ergolding
Ahornstraße 122 D - 84030 Ergolding
Tel (+49) 0871/72812 Fax (+49) 0871/77131
Email werk.ergolding@rna.de
PSA Zuführtechnik GmbH
Dr. Jakob-Berlinger-Weg 1 D – 74523 Schwäbisch Hall
Tel +49 (0)791/9460098-0 Fax +49 (0)791/9460098-29
Email info@psa-zt.de
HSH Handling Systems AG
Wangenstr. 96 CH - 3360 Herzogenbuchsee
Tel +(41) 062/95610-00 Fax (+41) 062/95610-10
Internet www.handling-systems.ch Email info@handling-systems.ch
RNA AUTOMATION LTD
Hayward Industrial Park
Tameside Drive, Castle Bromwich
GB - Birmingham, B 35 7 AG
Tel (+44) 0121/749-2566 Fax (+44) 0121/749-6217
Internet www.rna-uk.com Email rna@rna-uk.com
Vibrant S.A.
Pol. Ind. Famades C/Energia Parc 27
E - 08940 Cornella Llobregat (Barcelona)
Tel (+34) 093/377-7300 Fax (+34) 093/377-6752
Internet www.vibrant-rna.com Email info@vibrant-rna.com