Workpiece carrier as KLT, VDA inlay

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KLTs (small load carriers): Definition, possible applications and the role of workpiece carriers

Introduction

Small load carriers (SLCs) have become an integral part of modern industry and logistics. These stackable and robust plastic containers are ideal for storing and transporting small parts in production processes. They play a central role in many sectors, especially in the automotive and electronics industries, where efficient and safe handling of components is essential. In this article, you will learn what KLTs are, how they are used and how workpiece carriers as inlays or stacking components for even more efficient use.  

What are KLTs?

Small load carriers (KLTs) are stackable plastic containers that have been specially developed for handling small parts and components. They were originally designed for the automotive industry to make the transportation and storage of small, often fragile parts safer and more efficient. They have since found applications in many other industries, from electronics to medicine.

The main features of KLTs include their standardized size, high load capacity and stackable construction. They are usually made of robust plastic that is resistant to mechanical stress, moisture and chemicals. Thanks to their modular design, KLTs can be optimally integrated into racking systems or on pallets, which facilitates their handling in automated storage and conveyor systems.  

Possible applications for KLTs

KLTs are indispensable in many different industries, especially where there is a need for structured and safe handling of components. These containers offer a practical solution for transporting small parts between different production stages or for storage in warehouses.

In the automotive industry, KLTs are used to transport assemblies such as screws, nuts, seals and small electronic components. They enable material flows to be controlled efficiently and production processes to run smoothly.

In the electronics industry, KLTs are essential for protecting sensitive components from shocks and vibrations. Thanks to their compact design, these containers can be stored and transported in a space-saving manner.

The versatility of KLTs is also evident in other industries, such as the medical and food sectors, where small, sensitive or sterile products need to be handled safely and efficiently.  

The role of workpiece carriers in combination with KLTs

Workpiece carriers play a crucial role in the efficient use of KLTs. They are often used as inlays to position the specific workpieces or components safely and precisely in the KLTs. This combination not only improves transport safety, but also optimizes the handling of components in automated production processes.

Workpiece carriers ensure that the individual parts remain firmly in their intended position and do not slip during transportation or storage. This is particularly important for sensitive components that could be damaged by movement. Thanks to the tailor-made shape of the workpiece carriers, components can be placed precisely in the KLTs, enabling efficient use of space and secure fixing.  

Flexible application options for workpiece carriers

The use of workpiece carriers in KLTs not only offers secure fixing in the container, but also flexibility in handling. Depending on the product and requirements, workpiece carriers can either be inserted directly into the KLTs as an inlay or stacked on top of the KLTs. This enables optimum adaptation to the specific requirements of the respective products and the planned transport route.

Workpiece carriers as inlays: This method is often used when sensitive components need to be held firmly in place to prevent damage caused by movement during transportation. The workpieces are held securely in pre-formed recesses or holders, which prevents damage and at the same time enables easy removal.

Workpiece carriers as stacking components: In other cases, workpiece carriers can be designed to be stacked on top of the KLTs. This method offers greater flexibility when the components not only need to be transported safely, but also stacked and stored efficiently. This stacking function makes it possible to make optimum use of the available space in storage or transport systems and thus reduce logistics costs.  

Advantages of combining KLTs and workpiece carriers

The combination of KLTs and workpiece carriers offers several advantages:

  1. Safe handling of components: The use of workpiece carriers ensures that components are securely fixed during transportation and storage. This minimizes the risk of damage and increases efficiency in the production process.
  1. Efficient use of space: Workpiece carriers used as inlays in KLTs offer optimized space utilization. The precise fit of the components means that more material can be stored or transported in a smaller space.
  1. Simple automation: KLTs with integrated workpiece carriers can be easily integrated into automated conveyor and storage systems. This speeds up the production process and at the same time reduces errors that could be caused by manual handling.
  1. Flexibility in storage: When workpiece carriers are used as stackable components, this enables even more efficient storage. Companies can make optimum use of the available space in warehouses or trucks, which reduces logistics and storage costs.
  1. Protection against environmental influences: In combination with workpiece carriers, the robust KLTs offer ideal protection against external influences such as moisture, dust or chemical substances. This is particularly important in industries where sensitive or high-quality components are handled.  

Application examples of KLTs and workpiece carriers

Automotive industry: In the automotive industry, KLTs are often used in combination with workpiece carriers to safely transport small, sensitive components such as sensors, screws or electronic components. The workpiece carriers prevent these components from being damaged during transportation and facilitate automated assembly in the production line.

Electronics industry: Workpiece carriers and KLTs are also indispensable in electronics production. They protect sensitive electronic components from mechanical impact and static charge while they are stored in production or in the warehouse.

Mechanical engineering: KLTs and workpiece carriers also play an important role in mechanical engineering. Complex components such as precision turned parts or milled parts can be stored and transported precisely in the KLTs, which ensures optimum process reliability.  

Optimization of logistics with KLTs and workpiece carriers

The use of KLTs in conjunction with customized workpiece carriers contributes significantly to the optimization of internal logistics optimization. Thanks to the standardized dimensions of the KLTs, they can be easily stacked on pallets and integrated into automated conveyor systems. The workpiece carriers ensure that the components remain firmly in the KLTs and do not slip during movement.

KLTs also enable efficient traceability of components. Thanks to their standardized shape and marking, they can be easily integrated into existing logistics processes. This not only facilitates storage, but also the transport and organization of components.  

Conclusion

Small load carriers (SLCs) are an indispensable solution for the transportation and storage of small parts in many industries. In combination with workpiece carriers, they offer a tailor-made solution for the safe and efficient handling of components. Whether as inlays or stackable components, workpiece carriers help to optimize logistics, prevent damage and make the entire production process more efficient. Companies that rely on KLTs and workpiece carriers benefit from greater efficiency, lower costs and improved protection of their valuable components.

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