Continuously precise container fixing with durable, maintenance-free components

VMA-Getzmann relies on drylin linear guides and e-chains in its dissolvers

The special machine manufacturer VMA-Getzmann develops high-quality dissolvers for demanding applications, e.g. in the field of paints and varnishes. For precise and safe container tensioning in its new, compact laboratory dissolvers, the company relies on a customised solution developed together with igus: a drylin tensioning system with lead screw axis, which impresses with its lubrication-free and maintenance-free specifications, simple assembly and great stability. In addition, an e-chain in the electrical height adjustment unit ensures safe cable guidance.

DISPERMAT CV3evo laboratory dissolver from VMA-Getzmann, front and rear views

Profile

What was needed: Linear guides and energy chains for the container clamping device on the laboratory dissolver
Requirements: High stability, simple manual and precise adjustability, simple assembly, lubrication-free/maintenance-free
Industry: Fluid technology
Success for the customer: With a drylin lead screw axis that is customised to the application and can be adjusted manually using a hand wheel, the container clamping device is not only stronger than the previous in-house design. The end customer also benefits in particular from the simple assembly and lubrication-free operation, which saves maintenance time and costs.

Products used

drylin SLW lead screw linear axis in side view

Customised drylin lead screw linear axis

Series E2.38 energy chain with open crossbar

Energy chain E2.38

Problem

VMA-Getzmann is a leading manufacturer of exceptionally innovative and high-quality dispersing systems with a focus on facilities for smaller production quantities: From the laboratory (very small quantities from 100 millilitres) through the technical centre (quantities from approx. five to 100 litres) up to small-scale production (quantities up to 2,000 litres). Minimal quantities of raw materials are used in the laboratory in particular. The raw materials are usually very expensive and sensitive. Every process step must be perfect and the machine must work precisely and reliably.

With the DISPERMAT CV3evo laboratory dissolver, the company has developed a compact device with which production quantities of 0.05 to 7 litres can be dispersed, vacuum dispersed, finely ground, emulsified or dissolved. For the container clamping device, the designers were looking for a suitable linear axis that would ensure secure fixing at speeds of up to 20,000rpm and prevent unwanted movements when dispersing media with high viscosity.

As VMA-Getzmann has been successfully using machine components from igus for many years, they also came together for this project to jointly find a solution for the clamping device.

Solution

The result of the collaboration is a customised clamping device with a drylin lead screw axis that can be adjusted manually using a hand wheel. The lead screw drive of the clamping system is based on a lubrication-free lead screw nut made of iglidur J material. Integrated solid lubricants enable dry operation without lubricating oil or grease. This is particularly advantageous in laboratory environments where dust and pigment residues can react with lubricants. Specifications and geometries matched to the plastic nut and lead screw also ensure a longer service life and greater efficiency. "The new clamping device is not only stronger, but also maintenance-free," explains Christian Getzmann, CEO VMA-Getzmann. "As it is maintenance-free and has an easy assembly, our customers benefit from considerable time savings."

The company also relies on motion plastics for the electric height adjustment of the dissolver: An e-chain of the E2.38 series ensures that the cables are guided safely.

In addition to the technical quality, the company particularly appreciates the delivery reliability and the competent, fast exchange with igus. "When igus specifies a delivery date, it is always met. And if we have any questions, someone is on hand immediately," says Christian Getzmann. The geographical proximity to the igus headquarters in Cologne also facilitates cooperation. "In igus, we have found a partner who has the same quality standards as we do. We develop solutions together, not individually. That makes all the difference when it comes to driving forward technical innovation."