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.
It’s full steam ahead for SKF’s sustainable leak detection solution SKF South Africa
Pneumatic systems & components
One of SKF’s key customers based in Cape Town, which depends on steam systems for its production processes, was facing costly challenges related to high energy consumption and excessive maintenance hours. SKF recommended the TKSU 10 ultrasonic leak detector as a more streamlined, user-friendly alternative.
Read more...A guide for compressed air dryer selection Artic Driers International
Pneumatic systems & components
Clean and dry compressed air is essential in today’s modern operating environment. Without an air dryer and filter bank in line, the downtime created by condensate can be substantial. However, there are issues about air dryer selection and the impact of geographic location that need careful consideration prior to placing an order.
Read more...Easy to use energy management tool for compressed air Comtest
Pneumatic systems & components
For the efficient management of plant operations, the critical considerations include product quality, safety, downtime, and energy use. A production plant in Germany has set a greenhouse gas emissions reduction goal of 25% by 2030, and turned to the Plant Energy manager to help deliver that target.
Read more...Compressed air solutions for efficient pneumatic conveying
Pneumatic systems & components
Moving goods through pipes from one point to another using air - pneumatic conveying - is an extremely efficient method of transporting a great variety of products, provided that the right system is used, and that it’s done correctly.
Read more...Compressed air preparation Artic Driers International
Pneumatic systems & components
The choice of compressed air dryers is driven by the air quality demands of your plant.
Read more...Compressed air treatment do’s and don’ts Artic Driers International
Editor's Choice Pneumatic systems & components
As a long-established importer and manufacturer of air dryers, Artic Dryers often sees the results of poor installation and issues with aftercoolers that create serious problems in air drying systems.
Read more...Next-gen air compressors for plastics manufacturer
Pneumatic systems & components
Integrated Air Solutions has reinforced its partnership with global compressor manufacturer, ABC Compressors by facilitating the installation and commissioning of two next-generation direct-drive ABC machines for a prominent plastic manufacturer in South Africa.
Read more...Pushing technological boundaries with Festo Electric Automation solutions Festo South Africa
Editor's Choice
In the ever-evolving landscape of Industrial Automation, Festo Electric Automation solutions are at the forefront of a revolution, fundamentally reshaping production paradigms. As a global leader in automation, Festo focuses on intelligent connectivity to reduce costs, save time, and increase efficiency and convenience for customers.
Read more...Seamless compressed air supply
Pneumatic systems & components
The efficient performance of compressed air systems is the foundation for seamless production processes and sustainable business. The adoption of a comprehensive service plan delivered by an OEM like Atlas Copco is key to overall compressor performance, efficiency, reliability, and long lifecycle.
Read more...Selection of two-port valves: an open and shut case SMC Corporation South Africa
Pneumatic systems & components
Little consideration is generally given to two-port valves because they are often perceived as simple devices that only open and close to control downstream fluid supply. Although this is mechanically true, choosing the optimal two-port valve for your application can make a big difference, saving space, weight and energy consumption.
printer friendly version