Slitting Pretty

Safety enters the crucial zone in slitter rewinder areas that are not yet automated and require operator access. Webco's Preddy highlights the slitting section, commenting that "although automation in this area is becoming more cost-effective, many users are and will, for some time, be making manual settings and adjustments in this area." Current safety aids include improved pneumatic knife shafts and top knife holders, on-machine measurement with or without digital readout, and the ability to change or replace bottom knives quickly and efficiently, without the need to remove shafts, he says.