By combining elements of its pneumatic proportional technology in a ready-to-install solution, Festo has overcome the problem of unevenly wound fabric, plastic and paper webs. Edges can be easily adjusted and flush coil edges can be achieved. Festo claims that this solution enables coiling machines to be operated much faster and eliminates production stoppages associated with winding errors, thus significantly decreasing machine downtime.
Edges of fabric, plastic, paper and other webs can be easily adjusted and even coiled edges achieved with proportional technology
The technology operates using two SOEC-RT sensors that continuously monitor the roll of fabric, plastic sheet or paper. If at any point the edges deviate from the specified tolerance window, VPPM proportional valves regulate the slide's track using a fluidic muscle. The muscle contracts and reacts precisely to realign the edges.
Proportional valves
VPPM proportional valves regulate the motion of an actuator at various speeds and with varying force. Proportional valves enable variable flow rates and adapt cylinder pressure to the particular manufacturing process. The valves also regulate torque for pneumatic impact drivers and can be used in applications regardless of whether accuracy or speed is most important.
Configuration and diagnostics
Fieldbus and Ethernet connections enable easy on-site commissioning, pressure display and diagnostic functions via the CPX terminal. Status and settings can be remotely controlled, allowing maintenance and diagnosis via the web monitor, e-mail or SMS alarm.
Edge sensing
The SOEC-RT-Q50 colour sensor is compact and thanks to its IP67 protection and sturdy housing, the sensor delivers reliable, trustworthy measurement results even in harsh environments. The sensor can detect colour defects, printed markings or, as in this application, web edge alignment.
MAS pneumatic muscle
The MAS pneumatic muscle delivers up to 10 times the initial force in the application compared to that of a pneumatic cylinder of the same diameter. It can operate at frequencies up to 100 Hz and acceleration values up to 100 m/s². The muscle is not affected by the so called 'stick-slip' as is the case with other pneumatic drives, making it a highly suitable drive for web edge control.
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