How automatic die adjustment can help you improve your OEE
Up to now, product changes have usually required a lot of manual settings - and also experience on the part of the line operator. With the new automation option from Reifenhäuser, PAM (precise, autonomous, mechatronic), they can operate dies automatically and conveniently via the line control system. Depending on the die design, both the flex lip can be controlled mechatronically, and the dust bar, film width and lip opening can be adjusted. The PAM option thus offers manufacturers convenience that also pays off economically:
1
Fast product changeovers during operation
Automatic die adjustment shortens product changeover times: For example, when changing the width of a cast application with internal width adjustment, PAM is 78 percent faster than the conventional system. This is because the die is adjusted mechatronically via the line HMI based on stored recipes - without the line operator having to put on the die himself, which also increases work safety.
2
Higher quality through stored recipes
The PAM system stores the optimum settings of recipes that have already been run. This gives manufacturers reproducible quality, reduces waste, and saves material costs and time - all independently of the line operator.
3
Save energy without thermal expansion bolts
A die with PAM option is adjusted mechatronically and not via thermal expansion bolts. Thermal expansion bolts are normally controlled via heating cartridges and consume permanent power. Instead, the PAM screwdriver moves the screws only for adjustment. After that, they no longer need electricity. For example, for a 3000 mm wide die, switching from thermal expansion bolts to PAM saves 130,500 kilowatt hours per year.
The PAM option is suitable for dies for cast film production as well as for dies for the production of flattened film, and for dies for extrusion coating and sheet extrusion. The automatic die adjustment is particularly worthwhile for producers of very wide films, because here the adjustment takes a lot of time, and for frequent product changes. PAM is available as an option for new dies, but can also be retrofitted.
You would like to learn more about the PAM option? Then please feel free to contact us!
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