Octpber 23, 2009

New Hinge-Roll Feedsection Adds Value and Efficiency

Davis-Standard, LLC recently introduced a new patent-pending hinge-roll feedsection for medical silicone processors and other elastomer processors requiring frequent compound changes or feedroll cleanings. The feedsection’s straightforward design provides a combination of efficiency and simplified maintenance. The feedroll and interior of the feedsection is accessible by unfastening two swing bolts and lowering the attached swing-down cartridge by means of an electro-mechanical cylinder. By removing four additional fasteners, the cartridge can be completely detached for feedroll and bearing replacement.

“This feedsection improves upon our existing Davis-Standard adjustable torque clutch design,” said Joe Wnuk, vice president of Davis-Standard’s Elastomer Systems. “In addition to its simplicity, this design offers a uniform, consistent feed rate and adjusts automatically based on feed strip size. There is also no external motor or feed drive required, providing cost savings.”

One of the greatest advantages is the feedsection’s quick and easy maintenance. The belt drive eliminates lubrication requirements and the belts automatically loosen for feedroll removal. The feedroll and bearings can be removed without disassembly of additional components. For safety, the feedroll retainer swings away from the operator, positioning the roll in a more ergonomic lifting position for the operator. This feedsection is available for retrofit to existing 3.5-inch (90mm) Davis-Standard extruders and other sizes as needed. It can be equipped with a through-hardened steel scraper or optional nylon scraper for silicone applications. Other options include a chrome-plated feedsection and feedroll, and water-cooled feedroll.

For more information, contact Joe Wnuk at jwnuk@davis-standard.com.

Feed roll swinging down.

Intermediate position of feed roll retainer.

Full access for feed roll removal.