In cleanroom environments, there are strict requirements for particulate emissions and process stability. At the same time, the transfer of conveyed goods represents a critical weakness. Montech has now had its knife edge for use in cleanrooms certified by the Fraunhofer Institute for Production Technology and Automation IPA. With this certification, Montech is expanding the areas of application for existing conveyor technology, specifically to cleanroom applications.
In automated production processes, conveyor systems play a central role in material flow. Transfer points between individual conveyor lines are particularly challenging. Intermediate gaps can arise here, leading to faults, jamming, or interruptions, especially with small or sensitive components. Knife edges offer a constructive solution for this.
Minimized transfer areas for stable processes
Thanks to their geometry, knife edges have a particularly small deflection diameter, resulting in minimal transfer areas. This is a positive development, especially for small or light conveyed goods. The components are reliably transferred from one conveyor line to the next via the knife edge without getting stuck or changing position. This reduces process interruptions and increases the stability of the entire production line.
Cleanroom certification extends the range of applications
Since there are specific particle emission requirements in cleanroom environments, Montech has had its knife edge certified for use in cleanroom applications and tested by the Fraunhofer Institute for Production Technology and Automation IPA. The solution fulfills the requirements of air purity class ISO 5.
TESTED DEVICE® certification under cleanroom conditions
The test was conducted under cleanroom conditions according to ISO 14644-14. As part of the certification, the knife edge was evaluated in combination with various conveyor belt models and operating speeds.
For the following configurations, compliance with the particle size and concentration of air purity class ISO 5 has been demonstrated and the TESTED DEVICE® certificate issued:
- Conveyor belt TB30R-140×1500/MR 571854 at 15 m/min.
- Conveyor belt TB30R-140×1500/MR 571854 at 30 m/min.
- Conveyor belt TB40R-400×1500-VR 571673 at 15 m/min.
- Conveyor belt TB40R-400×1500-VR 571673 at 30 m/min.
Used in regulated production environments
The combination of tested cleanroom suitability and precise conveyor technology makes Montech’s knife edge particularly interesting for applications in regulated industries. These include medical technology, electronics manufacturing, and the pharmaceutical industry, where cleanliness and process safety are crucial. In addition to the safe transfer of goods, design features also improve operational efficiency. Reduced friction reduces the heating of the belt conveyor, extends its service life, and optimizes maintenance intervals.
Integration into existing conveyor systems
Montech’s knife edge integrates seamlessly with existing belt configurations. It is available in Montech’s online cleanroom configurator and can be designed to meet specific requirements. The certification extends the range of applications specifically to cleanroom applications without requiring any essential adjustments to the conveyor system.
