One of the newest types of automated screwfeeders is a device that features a self-contained stick of serially connected screws. This portable, handheld feeder is linked directly with an air-powered driver. An assembler inserts a stick of up to 110 screws into the driver and places the tip of the screw into a hole. Each screw twists cleanly from the stick when the correct seating torque is reached. The next screw is automati-cally indexed into the driving position and ready for insertion.
Correct torque is built into the screw instead of the driver.
The material diameter between each screw determines the seating torque. If a hole is too large, the correct torque will not be reached and the screw will not twist off. What to Look For The most important factor to consider when choosing an automated screwfeeder is the type of part to be fed. Material, shape, size, length, hardness and weight all determine how effectively screws feed. In addition to providing a quieter work environment, soundproof covers and enclosures prevent screws from being contaminated by any foreign parts inadvertently dropped into the bowl.