Most pick & place automation systems, such as our TRANSTAR Automation System, moves baskets from tank to tank by lifting them, transferring them, and lowering them into each process tank.  Although these systems are highly accurate methods of transferring baskets, they can not easily be modified to add continuous or intermittent oscillation, and are subject to crashes when the systems are not properly maintained.  In fact, competitive automation systems crash so often that many are now equipped with Crash Sensors which detect basket crashes and halt operations before damage to the system occurs.  This has never been required with a TRANSTAR or MBT Automation System.

The MBT Automation System does NOT lift baskets from tank to tank, but rather pushes baskets to neighboring tanks along guided tracks which are mounted to independent oscillation platforms which are mounted to each tank.  As a result, baskets can not be dropped, and crashing is eliminated.  In addition, since each tank includes an independent, programmable oscillation platform, cleaning speed and effectiveness is drastically improved.  This is the same automation system which is included in our ULTRAMATIC HV Clean/Rinse/Dry System.

Oscillation of parts during cleaning and rinsing processes serves to flush contaminants and detergents from part surfaces once the ultrasonic cleaning system has loosened the material from the surface.  With MBT Automation, each tank can be programmed to perform oscillation intermittently, or continuously to flush contaminants from blind holes, metal folds, and other detailed areas of parts.  Oscillation is adjustable for stroke length, stroke speed, stroke duration, and dwell time.  More information on the importance of oscillation can be found in the Ultrasonic College drop-down menu above under "Parts Oscillation."

The MBT system does not rely on optical encoders to perform accurate basket positioning in the system.  Rather, a pneumatic cylinder with a fixed stroke length is used to perform basket transfers from tank-to-tank.  The system is controlled with an on-board Programmable Logic Controller, and Touch-screen Operator Interface for the ultimate in operator convenience.  Optional equipment, such as multi-position automated Load and Unload Conveyors are available. As a result, an MBT Automation System will be operating 15-25 years from the date of purchase, accurately and reliably transferring baskets, with no maintenance required other than basic cleaning.  MBT Automation Systems also include automated process tank covers, an option which will add several thousand dollars to the price of a pick & place automation system such as our TRANSTAR. 

Although the MBT Automation System includes so much more capability, it is LESS COSTLY than most pick & place automation systems due to its inherent simplicity.  If you are interested in automating a multi-stage clean/rinse/dry system, contact Zenith for a quotation on our MBT Automation System.  No MBT system ever installed has caused a basket crash, or failed to accurately transfer a basket.

MBT Automation Systems:

• Eliminate the Possibility of Crashing during Automated Basket Transfer
• Are Optimized for Ultrasonic Use.
• Transfer Baskets by Pushing Them along Guided Tracks
• Include independent, Programmable Oscillation Capabilities to Every Tank
• When Cleaning Thick Contaminants Layers.

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