Overview
Dorner FlexMove conveyors run a flexible plastic chain on T-slot aluminum frames, so one conveyor can make multiple curves, inclines and declines. Seven standard widths from 45 to 260 mm and lengths from 0.6 to 30 m (2 to 98 ft) cover part handling, transfers, assembly automation, packaging and machine conveyance. Dorner also builds FlexMove into Helix spirals, Alpine accumulators, Twist conveyors, Wedge elevators and Retracting Tail conveyors. FlexMove is available as complete systems shipped in sub-assemblies or as components. PRI supplies FlexMove conveyors alongside the rest of the Dorner line.
Key Features
- Curves and elevation changes in one conveyor
- A single FlexMove conveyor can run multiple curves plus inclines and declines. Standard inclines and declines run from 5 to 30 degrees.
- Seven standard widths
- Chain widths of 45, 65, 85, 105, 150, 180 and 260 mm, in lengths from 0.6 to 30 m (2 to 98 ft).
- Chain for the job
- Standard, low friction and friction insert chain, plus conductive, cleated, roller top, magnet top and safety chain for specific applications.
- Weighted take-up
- The compact weighted take-up is designed to prevent catenary sag and eliminate potential pinch points.
- Powered transfers
- The optional powered transfer gives smooth end transfers for products as small as 3 in. (76 mm) in diameter.
- T-slot frames and modules
- T-slot aluminum frames take add-ons and design changes. Accessory modules include dry and wet cleaning, clamping, pop-up stops, side acting merges, S and X in-line transfers, and puck stops and diverts.
Product Line / Models
FlexMove standard conveyors and configurations, from Dorner's product pages:
- FlexMove Conveyors – FK 45 mm, FS 65 mm, FM 85 mm, FC 105 mm, FL 150 mm, FU 180 mm and FV 260 mm aluminum conveyors. Lengths 0.6 to 30 m (2 to 98 ft), inclines and declines from 5 to 30 degrees, optional patented top running drive loop.
- FlexMove Helix – Compact spiral conveyor in 85, 180 and 260 mm widths. Up to 4 tiers, 450 mm (18 in.) minimum infeed height, 3450 mm (132 in.) maximum outfeed height, 1400 mm (55.12 in.) spiral diameter at centerline. Inclines up to 7 degrees with flat top chain or 10 degrees with TPE friction top chain. Patented side roller chain with sealed ball bearings reduces corner friction.
- FlexMove Alpine – Compact spiral accumulator or elevating buffer between machines, in 65, 85, 105 and 150 mm chain widths. Return chain configurations up to 23 m (75 ft); single and double serpentine configurations up to 76 m (250 ft) of chain with entry and exit at the same level.
- FlexMove Twist – Two independent FlexMove conveyors rotate the product up to 90 degrees per conveyor pair, with no guiding or product gapping needed. Widths 65, 85, 105 and 180 mm; a 90-degree twist is about 3 m (10 ft) long; speeds up to 55 mpm (180 fpm).
- FlexMove Wedge – Two parallel conveyors with urethane gripper chain wedge the sides of the product to lift or lower it. Widths 45, 65 and 85 mm; 457 mm (18 in.) minimum lower height; 6096 mm (240 in.) maximum upper height; 4.6 kg (10 lb) per product and 90 kg (200 lb) total; speeds up to 52.2 m/min (171 ft/min). S, C, N (U) and O configurations.
- FlexMove Retracting Tail – Opens a temporary passage of up to 1 m through a line for workers or equipment. Built on FS (65 mm), FM (85 mm) and FC (105 mm) conveyors; 3200 mm extended length; speeds up to 50 m/min; recommended total conveyor length up to 10 m.
Applications & Benefits
- Part handling and machine conveyance: Dorner lists part handling, transfers and machine conveyance among FlexMove's main uses.
- Assembly automation: Curves, jogs and elevation changes let one conveyor follow the line through tight spaces.
- Accumulation and buffering: Alpine and Helix configurations keep product in sequence while buffering between machines, or while cooling, drying or curing.
- Elevation changes: Inclines, Helix spirals and Wedge elevators move product between levels in a small footprint.
- Medical device production and packaging: Dorner has built FlexMove systems for medical device and mask manufacturing and for pharmaceutical tote handling.
How to Choose the Right Dorner FlexMove Conveyor
- Start with the product: size, shape, weight and whether it must be accumulated, turned, twisted or lifted.
- Pick the chain width. Standard conveyors come in 45 to 260 mm; Helix, Alpine, Twist, Wedge and Retracting Tail each use a set of those widths.
- Map the route: length, curves, jogs and elevation changes. Standard inclines run 5 to 30 degrees; for more height in less floor space, look at the Helix or Wedge.
- Choose the chain type: standard, low friction, friction insert, cleated, conductive, roller top or magnet top.
- Plan transfers to and from other equipment, and any cleaning, stop, merge or divert modules.
- For caustic and corrosive environments, ask about the stainless steel FlexMove option.
Why Dorner FlexMove Conveyors Are Trusted
- Highly flexible chain: Dorner describes FlexMove chain as the industry's most flexible plastic chain belt, capable of multiple turns and inclines in one line.
- Patented designs: The Helix uses a patented side roller chain, and the optional top running loop uses a patented top running drive.
- Easy to integrate: FlexMove is engineered to integrate with other conveyors, machinery, controls, photo-eyes and sensors, and can be reconfigured as the line changes.
Contact & Ordering
Need help picking the right model or getting a quote? Provide these details:
- Product size, shape and weight
- Conveyor route: length, curves and elevation changes
- Required speed or product rate
- Accumulation, buffering, twisting or vertical lift needs
- Transfers to and from other conveyors or machines
- Operating environment (for example, corrosive conditions)
- Contact PRI to discuss specs, lead times, and installation support.
