Modular workpiece carrier systems in mechanical engineering

Process reliability, component protection and automation

In the production of precision parts, component positioning, cleanliness and handling accuracy determine quality, reject rates and reproducibility. For production and quality managers, this means:
Every movement must be perfect. Every component must be protected. Every process step must be traceable.

ZELL workpiece carrier systems were developed precisely for this purpose - as a modular, machine-compatible system that fits seamlessly into existing production environments - also in and around machine tools from DMG Mori, EMAG, Grob, Hermle and many more.

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Automated feeding - fewer rejects, greater process stability

Automated feeding is a challenge in precision parts production:
Many components are small, complex and sensitive - and must not be tilted, contaminated or damaged on their way to the machine.

ZELL workpiece carriers ensure precise, defined separation, allowing robots, gantries or linear conveyors to grip and feed components with process stability - without intermediate buffers or manual intervention.

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Protection of high-precision components - right through to QA and packaging

Precision needs protection - especially with tight tolerances or coated surfaces.
ZELL carriers secure components in form-fitting holders: tension-free, in the correct position, without friction points.

This minimizes:

❌ Micro-damage to functional surfaces

❌ Error images due to improper handling

❌ Rejects due to mechanical stress during repackaging

✅ Components remain in the same position - from production to cleaning to final inspection.

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Flexibly adaptable - precisely for component, machine and QA process

Despite standardization, the system remains individually adaptable:
ZELL develops customer-specific brackets (clips) based on tried-and-tested stainless steel/plastic base supports, tailored to:

• Machine pick-up and interfering contours
• Workpiece geometry, tolerance requirements, axis clearances
• ESD requirements or chemical resistance
• Traceability via RFID, engraving or DMC

For the production manager, this means: once tuned - permanently ready for use.

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Integration into the overall process - from raw part handling to packaging

ZELL carrier systems combine what is planned separately in many plants:
machine automation, internal logistics, cleaning, testing and packaging.

One and the same carrier system runs through:

• Feeding to the processing machine
• Withdrawal & return
• Handover to QS / inspection
• Final packaging or removal from storage

No relocation. No intermediate containers. No risk of loss.

The advantage for the quality manager: full traceability - and a defined position across all steps.

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Your benefits at a glance - from a production & quality perspective

✅ Feeding safe for robotics & machines - compatible with DMG Mori, Grob, EMAG, Hermle and industrial robotics

✅ Repeatable component positioning - ideal for automated production and testing

✅ Reduced rejects thanks to component protection - especially for sensitive precision parts

Modular and cost-efficient customization - carrier remains the same, only the holder (clip/multiclip) varies

✅ Can be integrated into logistics & quality assurance - one carrier for all process steps

✅ Long-term use & cleanability - stainless steel, PA6GB30, optionally ESD & silicone-free

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Fewer interfaces, more process reliability

Production managers benefit from leaner processes, fewer downtimes and simpler component handling.
Quality managers receive consistent control, reduced sources of error and clear component identity.
System integrators save time during commissioning and system planning thanks to standardized interfaces.

ZELL workpiece carrier systems - when precision, protection and automation have to be considered together.

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FAQ