Tianhe Conveying Machine Co.,Ltd · Wuxi Jiangsu China
IK UK Series

Downward Ball Transfer Unit IK-38B

The IK-38B is a downward ball transfer unit with a 38.1 mm diameter steel ball, rated for 200 kg working load and 250 kg maximum load. It mounts through a downward M22 hole into a deck plate, allowing a flat, smooth object like a tray to be moved in any direction by hand. The unit weighs 2.6 kg and is available with a steel, galvanized steel, chrome plated, or stainless steel case.

Downward ball transfer unit IK-38B mounted on a deck plate with M22 hole, showing two screw holes around the bearing
Downward ball transfer unit IK-38B mounted on a deck plate with M22 hole, showing two screw holes around the bearing

Product Overview

The IK-38B is a downward ball transfer unit with a 38.1 mm diameter steel ball, rated for 200 kg working load and 250 kg maximum load. It mounts through a downward M22 hole into a deck plate, allowing a flat, smooth object like a tray to be moved in any direction by hand. The unit weighs 2.6 kg and is available with a steel, galvanized steel, chrome plated, or stainless steel case.

Part of the IK UK Series range, used in Warehouse and Distribution Centres.

Key Benefits

  • 200 kg working load and 250 kg maximum load per unit for stable handling of heavy trays
  • Downward mount with M22 diameter hole allows secure attachment to deck plates
  • 38.1 mm steel ball provides consistent rolling under heavy static and dynamic loads
  • Steel, galvanized steel, chrome plated or stainless steel case options for different environment needs
  • Two screw holes around the bearing allow solid attachment to worktables and workbenches

Application Scenarios

  • Transfer points in a packaging line where flat trays are repositioned between stations
  • Feeding systems on processing machinery where trays need to be moved in any direction
  • Assembly line workstations where a fixture or tray is rotated by hand
  • Curved work areas on band saws or router tables requiring omnidirectional movement
  • Conveyor integration points where a tray must be transferred between two lines at an angle

Who It Is For

  • Conveyor system integrators building transfer zones with manual repositioning
  • Packaging machinery builders needing reliable tray handling at transfer points
  • Industrial equipment makers designing workstations with adjustable tray positioning
  • Production line builders integrating downward ball transfer units into fixed workbenches
  • Material handling equipment suppliers sourcing consistent ball transfer units by load and mount

Problems It Solves

  • Trays or flat loads that jam or bind when pushed across a fixed deck plate
  • Transfer points where product must change direction without powered diverters
  • Workstations where a heavy tray cannot be rotated by hand due to high rolling resistance
  • Systems requiring a stable, non-slip transfer point for flat, smooth-bottomed items
  • Integration of manual repositioning into automated lines without adding motors or actuators

Technical Features

  • 38.1 mm diameter steel ball for consistent load distribution and low rolling resistance
  • Downward mount with M22 diameter hole for secure attachment to deck plates
  • Two screw holes around the bearing for firm fixation to worktables and benches
  • Steel case with optional galvanizing, chrome plating, or stainless steel for corrosion resistance
  • Overall dimensions of 80 mm diameter and 115 mm height for integration into standard deck layouts

Materials

  • Carbon steel ball and case for general industrial use
  • Galvanized steel case for improved corrosion resistance in humid environments
  • Chrome plated case for wear resistance and a smooth surface finish
  • Stainless steel case (SUS304) for washdown, food, or corrosive environments

Quality Control

  • Load capacity verified against the 200 kg working load rating
  • Ball rotation checked by hand for free movement in all directions
  • Mount diameter and screw hole alignment confirmed to match M22 specification
  • Material grade verified against the case option ordered

Customization Options

  • Case material selected between carbon steel, galvanized steel, chrome plated, or stainless steel
  • Ball material is steel and cannot be changed
  • Other models in the IK UK Series available for different load ratings or mounting types

Use Guide

  • Ensure the deck plate has a clean, flat M22 hole for the downward mount
  • Divide the total load by the number of units in contact to stay within the 200 kg working load
  • Avoid using on uneven or soft-bottomed items like cloth-wrapped loads
  • Use stainless steel case in washdown or corrosive environments
  • Do not use as a swivel caster for floor movement

Specifications

Model NoIK-38B
MountingDownward mount
Mount DiameterM22
Load Capacity200 kg
Max Load Capacity250 kg
Weight2.6 kg
Ball Diameter38.1 mm
Ball MaterialSteel
Case MaterialSteel, galvanized steel, chrome plated, stainless steel
Dimensions80 x 115 mm

Manufacturing Process

Step 1

Machining of the case and mounting hole for M22 downward fit

Step 2

Assembly of the 38.1 mm steel ball and bearing into the case

Step 3

Drilling and finishing of the two screw holes around the bearing

Step 4

Final load check and inspection before packing

Compared With Other Options

Flange mount ball transfer unitsDownward mount fixes from below and allows flush mounting, while flange mount requires space above the deck
Press fit ball transfer unitsDownward mount uses screws for secure attachment and can be removed for service, unlike press fit units that are harder to replace
Standard roller conveyorsBall transfer units allow omnidirectional movement, while rollers only move product along one axis

Downward Ball Transfer Unit IK-38B Questions

What is the load capacity of the IK-38B?

The rated load capacity is 200 kg and the maximum load capacity is 250 kg.

How is the IK-38B mounted?

It is a downward mount unit, fixed through an M22 hole in the deck plate using screws.

Which case materials are available?

Steel, galvanized steel, chrome plated, or stainless steel (SUS304) options are available.

Can the ball material be changed?

No, the ball is made of steel and is not available in other materials.

What is the ball diameter?

The ball diameter is 38.1 mm (1.5 inches).

Is this unit suitable for trays?

Yes, it is designed for transporting flat, smooth objects such as trays.

Can it be used on the floor?

No, it is not designed to be used as a swivel caster for floor movement.

Get a Price for Downward Ball Transfer Unit IK-38B

Send the quantity and any material or surface option you need, and a quotation comes back against this model number.