Ingot feeding systems automatically transfer metal ingots from a storage position to the melting or holding unit of a hot chamber die casting machine. They support a continuous material supply and reduce recurring manual loading operations in the immediate area around the furnace.
A feeding system connects material storage with furnace operation. Every transfer point must be designed so that ingots are received in a defined manner, moved safely and delivered at the intended position.
The feeding process should operate in accordance with the material demand of the system. Depending on the equipment, the request may be triggered by the fill level, consumption, a timed interval, machine release or a combination of several signals.
The appropriate construction depends on the ingot format, storage requirement, charging height and available space. Used systems must therefore be assessed according to their actual mechanical design rather than their designation alone.
A magazine holds a defined number of ingots and feeds them one after another to the singulation mechanism. Important factors include usable magazine capacity, refilling access, ingot guidance and behaviour with different surface conditions or dimensional tolerances.
Chain, carrier or plate conveyor systems can move material along a horizontal or inclined route. Pitch, carrier spacing, chain guidance and drive power must match the ingot weight.
Lifting, tilting or pushing mechanisms can move an ingot from a low loading position to the required charging height. Safe end positions, retention and controlled transfer are particularly important.
When selecting a used ingot feeding system, the material, furnace, installation space and control system must be considered together. The manufacturer and year of manufacture alone are not sufficient for a reliable technical assignment.
The transfer of the ingot influences safety, material flow and operability. The feeding system must therefore be adapted to the specific charging opening and operating condition of the furnace.
The inlet, chute, drop distance and any retention devices must prevent material from missing the opening or becoming jammed within the feeding route.
The existing furnace or cell control system determines when an ingot may be fed. All involved release and fault signals must be clearly defined.
An ingot feeding system does not replace the process control of the furnace. It does, however, support predictable material replenishment and creates defined procedures between storage, operating personnel and the molten metal.
Material feeding is positioned at the beginning of the production flow. Die preparation, the casting cycle, extraction, separation, transport and quality control follow afterward.
In addition to the external dimensions, the magazine, singulation mechanism, conveying system, control system, safety equipment and actual scope of supply should be fully documented.
The offered scope of used feeding systems can vary considerably. Before purchase, it should be clarified which mechanical, electrical and safety-related components are included.
Depending on their condition, used ingot feeding systems can be cleaned, mechanically inspected, refurbished and adapted to a new ingot format or a different installation situation.
FISS supports the search for a suitable ingot feeding system and its technical assignment based on the ingot format, magazine capacity, feeding capacity, charging height, installation area, furnace connection and control system. If no suitable used system is currently available online, FISS can search specifically for a suitable solution through its international network.
When selling equipment, FISS supports condition assessment, technical documentation and international marketing of individual feeding systems and complete hot chamber die casting cells. In addition to brokerage and international marketing, direct purchase by FISS may also be an option depending on the project.
