Ball Transfer Units are the ideal solution when the load must not just move back and forth, but must have 360° freedom of movement in any direction.
It is essentially a large sphere that “sits” on top of many smaller spheres inside a shell, allowing for smooth rolling with minimal friction.
Where are they necessary?
Due to their ability to change direction in the load instantaneously, we encounter them in very specific places:
Sorting & Packing Tables: Where an employee must rotate a heavy box or push it from one aisle to another.
Air Cargo Loading: The floors of cargo planes and terminals are filled with such units so that aluminum pallets (ULDs) can slide in any direction with a simple push.
Machine Feeding: In presses or cutting machines, where the operator must accurately align heavy sheets of metal or wood.
Types and Construction Materials
Depending on the work environment, we also choose the corresponding material:
Steel Balls: The most durable for very heavy loads, but require lubrication and attention to rust.
Stainless Steel: Essential in food or chemical industries where liquids and cleaning agents are present.
Plastic/Nylon Balls: Ideal for sensitive loads (e.g. glass, painted surfaces) to avoid scratches.
Installation: There are units that only operate with the ball facing up (for tables) and others that can be installed “upside down” or sideways (e.g. as roller guides).
Ball Transfer Units are the ideal solution when the load must not just move back and forth, but must have 360° freedom of movement in any direction.
It is essentially a large sphere that “sits” on top of many smaller spheres inside a shell, allowing for smooth rolling with minimal friction.
Where are they necessary?
Due to their ability to change direction in the load instantaneously, we encounter them in very specific places:
Sorting & Packing Tables: Where an employee must rotate a heavy box or push it from one aisle to another.
Air Cargo Loading: The floors of cargo planes and terminals are filled with such units so that aluminum pallets (ULDs) can slide in any direction with a simple push.
Machine Feeding: In presses or cutting machines, where the operator must accurately align heavy sheets of metal or wood.
Types and Construction Materials
Depending on the work environment, we also choose the corresponding material:
Steel Balls: The most durable for very heavy loads, but require lubrication and attention to rust.
Stainless Steel: Essential in food or chemical industries where liquids and cleaning agents are present.
Plastic/Nylon Balls: Ideal for sensitive loads (e.g. glass, painted surfaces) to avoid scratches.
Installation: There are units that only operate with the ball facing up (for tables) and others that can be installed “upside down” or sideways (e.g. as roller guides).
