Arrow 56" Slitter

FORCE Manufacturing was contracted in May 2002 to rebuild a modified Arrow Slitting machine. This machine had several changes to roller location, paper path and slitting configuration over its life. This resulted in a poorly organized control panel, consisting of obsolete and redundant controls. Due to a limited available budget, Force worked closely with the customer to prioritize the items that would have the greatest impact on productivity and reliability.

There were four (4) different sources for power and five (5) control modules when the machine was received at FORCE Manufacturing. The power distribution was completely re-designed with a single point of entry into a main electrical cabinet. The power was then distributed to all of the sub-components, in accordance with NEMA electrical codes. Emergency stops and lockout safety features were integrated into the electrical system that included pneumatic controls, hydraulic controls, electrical eyes, and tensioning sensors. All of the controls and monitors were reconfigured on the operator's side of the machine, in an ergonomic/sequential manner. Existing electric and pneumatic control panels and components were used as much as possible to keep costs down. All components were tested and replaced as necessary.

Future maintenance of the machine was addressed in great detail. Because this machine had several drive chains, periodic inspection and adjustment was necessary. Because of the limited budget, an upgrade to a belt drive was not feasible at this time. Instead, it was decided to make maintenance of the existing system quicker and easier. Existing idler sprockets were replaced by a cadre of chain tensioning devices, centrally located for easy access. The existing chain guard was very heavy and had to be lifted off vertically then pulled to the side. This required two men or a jib crane. A new lightweight guard with wheels was designed and fabricated. By simply lifting and rolling the guard back, maintenance personnel gained easy access for inspection and adjustment of all chains.

In summary, all of the major systems were reconditioned or redesigned. The machine was shipped with increased safety, reliability and operating at or above original design specifications. A detailed user manual was provided with new electrical schematics, component information, and data sheets.