How to build reliable, durable vending machines

Drive Technology And Energy Chains How to Build Reliable, Durable Vending Machines

2025-08-19 From Igus | Translated by AI 3 min Reading Time

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The vending machine manufacturer XL-Automaten has been using components from Igus for more than ten years. Its goal is always: extremely reliable, low-maintenance technology. What recommendations does the company give to other development teams based on its experiences?

There are vending machines for a wide variety of goods: flowers, ice cream, ready meals, tools, and even hardware.(Image: Igus) — There are vending machines for a wide variety of goods: flowers, ice cream, ready meals, tools, and even hardware.
(Image: Igus)

The product range of XL-Automaten includes vending machines for goods, beverages, and frozen products, as well as specialized solutions such as flower and tool vending machines. When designing new models, the manufacturer focuses on energy-efficient and modern technology. For instance, the company integrates modern payment systems such as contactless payment or payment via app. XL-Automaten also emphasizes individuality. "We welcome every inquiry for special requirements and are happy to develop solutions tailored exactly to the needs of our customers," explains Managing Director Markus Fograscher. The focus is on future viability, quality, and durability. With this strategy, the 12-person company based in Bavaria, Germany has established itself in the industry.

"Our products must withstand extreme conditions. We build machines that last—and we mean it," emphasizes Fograscher: from the ice vending machine that sells ice cream 24/7 without additional staff or store rent to the IT vending machine, where employees can borrow laptops, projectors, and similar items—including an automatic return check for the devices. The vending machines can be placed indoors or outdoors, as they are designed to meet the specific requirements of their location. This robustness and low maintenance effort make them attractive to operators.

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Dryspin spindles and Iglidur J spindle nuts handle the movements in the lift systems of the vending machines. Thanks to their self-lubricating properties, they significantly reduce maintenance effort. Low-maintenance operation is an important selling point for vending machines.(Image: Igus)

Energy chains from Igus ensure reliable power supply to light barriers and other electrical components in the vending machines, even during continuous movement. Their modular design allows for easy assembly and adaptation to various requirements.(Image: Igus)

"Our products are optimally tailored to the needs of XL vending machines, as they are lubrication-free, low-maintenance, durable, and robust," explains Andrej Schmidt, Head of Industry Management for Vending Machine Technology at Igus.(Image: Igus)

Gallery with 11 images

"Our vending machines are designed to operate reliably over many years without requiring an elaborate maintenance schedule. We rely on components that do not need regular servicing, allowing operators to use our machines independently and worry-free." The company found these components at the plastics specialist Igus.

R&D Strategy And Components: What Has Proven Effective?

"Our products are optimally tailored to the needs of XL-Automaten, as they are lubricant-free, low-maintenance, durable, and robust," explains Andrej Schmidt, Head of Industry Management for Vending Technology at Igus. Another reason why XL-Automaten chose the Cologne-based (Germany) company is the support during the development phase. "The quick availability of samples and the comprehensive technical consulting help us implement new solutions efficiently and reliably. By having direct access to technical expertise and customized products, we can accelerate development processes and significantly reduce time to market," adds Fograscher.

With the lightweight and maintenance-free Drylin SLW linear system, the spray nozzle module can be adjusted to the current plant height. (Image:Igus)

The close collaboration is particularly evident in the selection of the right components, which contribute to the reliability and durability of the vending machines. These include Dryspin trapezoidal lead screws and nuts, Igubal rod ends, Drylin profile rails, Drylin linear guides, and energy chains. "All the components we use must be extremely robust and reliable because if a lift system fails, the entire machine comes to a standstill," says Fograscher, adding: "The same Igus components we selected ten years ago are still in use today because they simply work and have proven themselves."

How Does the Vending Machine Manufacturer Use the Components?

For precise, low-friction movements, XL-Automaten relies on Drylin-W linear guides. The aluminum linear guides with plastic sliding elements are characterized by their lightweight construction, corrosion resistance, and durability. "Thanks to their versatility, easy installation, and quiet operation, they are also the ideal solution for use in vending machines," explains Erik Neb, technical sales consultant for bearing technology at Igus.

Dryspin spindles and spindle nuts made of Iglidur J plastic handle the movements in the lift systems of the vending machines. Thanks to their self-lubricating properties, they significantly reduce maintenance efforts.

The Igubal spherical bearings and Drylin profile rails ensure stability and smooth movements, even in demanding environments. "Our products are specifically designed to reliably perform under extreme conditions, such as here in deep-freeze applications at temperatures as low as -8 °F," said Neb.

Energy chains also play a central role. They ensure a reliable power supply to light barriers and other electrical components, even during continuous movement. Their modular design allows for easy assembly and adaptation to various requirements.

Fograscher is very satisfied with the collaboration: "With Igus, we have a partner that not only supplies us with high-quality components but also supports us in development and provides solutions that meet our high standards. This enables us to build vending machines that operate reliably and efficiently both today and in the future."

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