TPT May 2009

T echnology U pdate

Complete automation of pipe extrusion lines

Italian polyolefin pipe producer Wavin has invested in complete automation for extrusion lines, by adding two pipe packaging machines and one picking machine to one of its lines. The packaging machines (Multipack model) and the handling machine (Multipallet model) are produced by Sica, Italy.

Wavin’s decision to invest in complete line automation arose from the need to reduce production costs and increase efficiency and line productivity. Sica Multipack machines create individual pipe packs composed of various layers of pipes, deposited in plastic separator cradles, and then tied together by plastic straps. The system was specially developed for installation in lines producing pipes between 50 and 160mm in diameter and from 500 to 3,000mm in length (plus bell end). The company’s Multipallet machine for pipe handling picks incoming packs, rotates them if necessary, and places them on trolleys in predetermined layouts. The machine also picks separator boards from dedicated magazines and places them between

Circular saw blade closes the gap Swiss company SW Wil has developed a new kind of HSS based circular saw blade, named the PowerBlade 65. Using an HSS vapour blade it is possible to cut up to 380 N/mm 2 with a moderate cutting speed. With a standard HSS blade and a common AlTiN PVD coating it is possible to cut up to 450 N/mm 2 with a reasonable lifetime and cutting speed. TCT saw blades are normally used above 650 N/mm 2 . For the gap between 450 and 650 N/mm 2 there has previously been no circular saw blade available offering an optimum solution for cutting tubes and bars in this range. SW Wil has introduced a complete new HSS saw blade with a special HSS body and a coating system featuring a higher oxidation resistance than others on the market. The company states that the PowerBlade 65 sets a new standard in the line between 450 and 650 N/mm 2 . SwissCut SW Wil AG – Switzerland Fax : +41 71 911 49 32 layers, to increase the stability of the stack. The system is able to process packs varying in width between 290 and 620mm, with a maximum height of 400mm. Maximum productivity declared by Sica for pick up of a single pack and its positioning on the cart is 35 seconds for each pack. With the introduction of the new system, the operator can achieve complete automation of pipe extrusion lines, with cost reduction, increased process reliability and optimised working conditions. Sica SpA – Italy Fax : +39 0544 81340  The new machines have enabled complete automation of the company’s extrusion line Email : info@sica-italy.com Website : www.sica-italy.com

 Wavin has installed packaging and handling machines from Italy’s Sica

Ultrasonic cleaning system with compact footprint Cleaning machines for washing and rinsing components in several stages often have their rectangular process tanks positioned end to end in a line. The Versa+ ultrasonic cleaning machine is different, in that the Finnish manufacturer, FinnSonic, has swivelled the tanks through 90° so that they are side by side. The installed equipment is therefore significantly shorter, saving space on the shop floor. Available through UK agent, Turbex, the modular, expandable machine can have any number of tanks, which can be either 40 or 80 litres in capacity. Typical cleaning processes include ultrasonic or immersed jet cleaning, single or multiple water rinsing and hot air drying. Particle filtration and oil separation can be included, according to customer requirement.

Designed for small-scale washing and degreasing applications, the automated process is said to result in uniform cleaning of components. Manual configurations can also be specified. The Versa+ is well suited to use in the electronics and semiconductor industries, PVD (physical vapour deposition) and other coating applications, and cleaning watch parts, lead frames and x-ray tubes.

 A FinnSonic Versa + four-stage, automatic cleaning line

Each tank is operated from a panel linked to a central PLC system, which provides ease of use and also allows retrofitting of handling automation, available for 10kg or 20kg basket weights. Manual handling by pneumatic assist lift is available for baskets

weighing up to 30kg. Turbex Limited – UK Fax : +44 1420 542264 Email : john.huntingdon@turbex.co.uk Website : www.turbex.co.uk

Email : swwil@sw-wil.com Website : www.sw-wil.com

28

M ay 2009

www.read-tpt.com

›