FlexLink Online Store is open for business
FlexLink has launched an online platform to help customers identify, configure and purchase material handling systems, including those for EV battery cell conveyance and high-precision electronics handling .
FlexLink, which designs and manufactures automation and material-handling systems for a range of industries, including automotive, has introduced a new online platform for customers designed to help them more easily select, configure and purchase conveyors and components. The FlexLink Online Store has been designed to help industrial customers identify and configure the material handling system that best fits their specific requirements.
Approximately 25% of FlexLink’s customer base is in the automotive sector and that includes those making and supplying parts for battery electric vehicles (BEVs). The company provides solutions for battery cell transport, as well as for module and pack assembly. FlexLink also offers systems for rotor and stator handling, along with tray-based transport solutions to deliver components efficiently to the production line.
Cost effective
Identifying the best system is important for OEM and tier one suppliers. That is because automated material handling equipment has a direct impact on two key indicators for any production line: overall equipment effectiveness (OEE) and total cost of ownership (TCO). Material handling significantly affects energy consumption and operating costs. The adoption of efficient motors and drives, or the selection of appropriate conveyor systems, can also reduce electricity consumption by up to 20-25%, as well as reducing component wear and providing proactive visibility on scheduled maintenance.
In terms of battery and cell conveyance, FlexLink technology supports clean and dry production environments for sensitive parts. These systems support processes such as battery cell handling, case handling, jellyroll assembly, leakage testing, charging and module assembly.
Sensitive production environments
Customers using the new FlexLink Online Store begin by choosing their particular industry and then what product needs to be conveyed. That includes details on material, weight, dimensions and sensitivity to contamination. The system then considers the production environment in which the system will operate wet, dry, with the presence of oils or in a clean room. That is important for customers of FlexLink technology who need to guarantee a sensitive production environment. As well as EV battery/cell conveyance, FlexLink provides equipment for clean and dry room applications, and highprecision electronics handling, including printed circuit boards (PCB) and semiconductors. Its broad and advanced portfolio for electronics manufacturing environments supports sensitivity requirements, ensuring precision, electrostatic discharge (ESD) safety, clean handling and controlled transport.
These systems meet the standards set out by a range of electronics manufacturing associations (including Smema, Hermes and IPCCFX). The systems can integrate easily into clean, traceable production lines, features commonly required in semiconductor manufacturing.
Integrated platform
Once customers have input all of the required information into the FlexLink Online Store, the platform suggests the most suitable material handling system, including conveyor types, design variants and required accessories. Customers do not need to browse through dozens of options because FlexLink Online proposes a configuration already aligned with the production requirements, reducing time, risk of errors and technical complexity.
That process reflects the two integrated layers of the FlexLink Online Store: customers identify the system they need based on the detailed application criteria and system then enables them to define quantities, component families, variants, and accessories. It also facilitates quotes for particular material handling solution and order confirmation.
The entire process is conducted on a web portal for ease of use and accuracy in selecting the right technology required. The platform integrates a three-dimensional configurator that updates the visualisation of the conveyor system in real time and enables a fast transition to quotation requests or order placement. The digital experience is aligned with FlexLink’s commercial processes and helps streamline the design phase, supporting faster, consistent and technically sound decisions.
Installation and maintenance
Once a customer has finalised its equipment choice and that equipment has been delivered, FlexLink’s global service organisation assists customers during system installation to ensure correct setup and integration into the production line. Furthermore, FlexLink offers expert technical support and digital services that help customers operate their systems efficiently. This includes guidance, optimisation, and access to specialised knowhow throughout the system’s lifecycle. FlexLink’s maintenance and lifecycle services team provides preventative maintenance, fast support in should issues arise and tailored upgrades to keep systems reliable and up to date. These services ensure smooth, continuous operation and improved asset lifecycle performance.
