Knowledge

Frequently asked questions about MFP flat pallets

The most important answers about models, dimensions, cleaning, automation and ordering MFP flat pallets. For more detailed explanations, use the linked guides.

Photo of the MANZ MFP 4 flat pallet showing its pocket grid

Which MFP models are there?

Five: MFP 0, MFP 1, MFP 2, MFP 3 and MFP 4. All share the same 383 × 281.3 mm footprint and differ in their grid – from 408 pockets of 11.8 mm on the MFP 0 to 24 pockets of 57.7 × 54.3 mm on the MFP 4. Each model has its own product page with dimensioned drawing and article numbers.

Where can I find the right article number?

In the product overview and on the model pages, each for Classic and Standard/pearl white. For a reorder, it is best to check the number against your delivery note or master data record.

What does Classic mean?

Classic is the grey version of MFP flat pallets, Standard/pearl white the white one. Every model is available in both colours, each with its own article number. You can tell which version you use from the colour of your pallets or the article number on your delivery note.

Are Standard/pearl white and Classic interchangeable?

The two versions differ in colour: Classic is grey, Standard/pearl white is white. If your machine works with image processing, the pallet colour can affect part recognition – in that case we recommend testing a pallet in the other colour before switching. Please tell us your current version and where it is used.

What are Manz flat pallets?

Many users know the MFP system as the “Manz flat pallet” – MFP stands for Manz Flachpalette. The model designation is embossed on every pallet. With this designation or a photo, we can identify your existing pallets.

Which pallet suits my part?

Choose the smallest pocket your part fits into with a little clearance in its intended position: up to 11.8 mm the MFP 0, up to 17.7 mm the MFP 1, up to 27.8 × 26.1 mm the MFP 2, up to 37.9 × 35.6 mm the MFP 3 and up to 57.7 × 54.3 mm the MFP 4. If a gripper needs room or the part is tall, the next larger model may fit better.

Is a photo enough for the selection?

To identify an existing pallet, yes. For a new application, we also need the dimensions of your part; if space is tight, a short sample test helps.

Where can I find the dimensions?

Outer and pocket dimensions of all five models are shown on the product pages with a dimensioned top view and in the model comparison. The values come from the Manz data sheet 08/2020; the binding dimensioned drawing comes with our quotation.

Can I put several parts into one pocket?

Yes, as long as the parts do not damage each other and removal works. This is common especially with the large pockets of the MFP 3 and MFP 4. For sensitive surfaces, we recommend a trial with the planned loading.

Are the pallets suitable for automated picking?

Yes, the MFP system is designed for automation: a notch on the side prevents the pallet from being turned the wrong way, each part sits in a fixed grid position, and vision systems can detect and feed the parts. Whether gripper and part work together in your machine, we clarify using your data.

Can I clean parts directly in the carrier?

Yes. The parts can be cleaned in the pallet, including in an ultrasonic bath, and stay in their pockets. Transferring them into cleaning baskets is no longer necessary. We agree medium and cleaning programme with you before series use.

Are the pallets suitable for ultrasound?

Yes, cleaning the parts in the pallet in an ultrasonic bath is explicitly intended. The open grid structure lets the cleaning liquid reach the parts and drain away again.

Which temperature is permissible?

MFP pallets are designed for washing and drying up to 89 °C. This figure describes the operating temperature in cleaning – so anyone searching for “heat resistant up to 80 degrees” will find the practical figure for washing systems here. The plastic pallets are not intended for high-temperature processes such as sintering.

Are MFP pallets ESD-capable?

An ESD version is not part of the standard range. If you handle electrostatically sensitive components, tell us the requirements of your ESD protection concept – we will clarify which options exist.

Are they approved for cleanroom or sterilisation?

There is no general cleanroom or sterilisation approval. For medical technology, the pallets can be retrofitted with an RFID chip for traceability. Describe the environment, process and required documentation and we will check your application.

How high can I stack loaded pallets?

MFP pallets are stackable, including with the Manz pin pallet. How high loaded pallets can be stacked depends on part weight, overhang and transport. Give us this information and we will agree the stacking with you.

How many pallets do I need?

That depends on throughput, actual occupancy, cycle time and reserve. Our guide to carrier quantity shows the calculation with an example – or we can calculate it together using your figures.

Are samples available?

We arrange samples for new applications on request. Please state the model, the part and the planned test.

Are special versions available?

Besides grey (Classic) and white (Standard/pearl white), other colours are possible on request, as is retrofitting with RFID. For other deviations, describe your requirement – we will check which solution is possible.

Where can I find prices and delivery times?

You will receive price, availability and delivery time with our quotation. For this we need model, version, quantity and requested date.

Can the pallet be used as shipping packaging?

MFP pallets are intended for in-house storage, transport and provision. For shipping to customers, the parts usually need additional outer packaging with fixing and protection.

How do I document a sample test?

Record pallet, part revision, conditions, observations and result. The download area offers a sample test report template for this.

What information belongs in the first enquiry?

Model or part dimensions, application, quantity and date. For new processes, add a drawing or photo and the questions you would like to clarify first.

How do I reach a contact person?

By e-mail to info@flachpaletten.de or by phone on +49 (0) 7158 980 2224. The enquiry form on the contact page prepares your e-mail with all the important details.

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