In Motion
As good as new
New motion control equipment isn't the only way for converters to accommodate shorter runs at varying tensions and faster press speeds—certain operating levels and adjustments can help existing equipment tow the line as well.
Ron Pelletier, product manager/ engineer at P/A Industries, Bloomfield, CT, recommends pneumatic brakes be sized, when possible, to require 40 psi to 60 psi when operating at full roll condition. Pelletier explains most brakes take 2 psi to 5 psi to engage, while some require up to 10 psi. A brake operating at 15 psi to 20 psi at full roll has a working window of 10 psi to 15 psi after the engagement pressure is subtracted. A 1 psi or 2 psi change to the brake under these conditions will yield a 10 percent to 20 percent tension change. Smoother operation is possible at 40 psi to 60 psi, where the same pressure adjustment results in only a 1.6 percent to 5 percent tension change.
