Precise Servo Clamp Feed Control for Schwabe Die Cutting Press Machines
Posted on: October 29, 2024
Advancements in Precise Automated Die Cutting for Maximum Material Yield
Freeman Schwabe® Machinery’s servo clamp feed system is engineered specifically for precise automated die cutting and to maximize material yield. The complete solution for precise material feed control includes a servo motor, servo drive, gearbox, encoder, coupling, timing belt drive, belt clamp, and feed clamps. All parts of the servo clamp feed control feature are engineered specifically to bring precise performance to the die cutting industry.
Discover what makes Freeman Schwabe’s servo clamp feed control system for die cutting presses unique, or get started with a quote on a new die cutting press today.
Feed Drive System & Gearbox
The feed system uses an Allen Bradley Kinetix 5500 servo drive paired with an Allen Bradley VPL low inertia servo motor to deliver high-performance cutting belt positioning. The feed motor uses a single cable for power and feedback and provides real-time motor performance information to the control system. The drive monitors the feedback to continuously adjust the speed, position, and torque during a material feed resulting in a precise and accurate feed index.
The feed gearbox uses a system of gears to decrease the motor’s output speed while increasing torque and allowing for controlled movement, even when the motor is running at a high speed. The gearbox used on the feed is approximately a 20:1 reduction. The maximum speed of the feed is 45 inches per second.
High Resolution Encoder
The 18-bit digital high-resolution encoder has over 262,000 pulses per revolution and with the gearbox taken into consideration, becomes over 5 million pulses per revolution. The pulses per revolution are multiplied by the gearbox ratio, which increases the feedback resolution. Each pulse received is equivalent to 0.0000026769” of feed travel.
Servo Rated Coupling
The feed system uses a unique servo rated coupling. The servo coupling is a zero-backlash coupling with a very low amount of windup. The coupling is specially designed for use with servo die cutting systems, providing adequate amounts of flex but still has the required torque capabilities and required stiffness.
Redesigned Timing Belt Drive
The clamp feed system includes a newly designed timing belt drive system to send rotary force to a linear load. Timing belts are ideal for high precision applications that require fast positioning and unparalleled response. The teeth on the belt mesh securely with the pulley grooves, preventing slippage and ensuring exact rotational positioning. The timing belt drive system’s high efficiency and performance make it ideal for extremely fast and accurate die cutting feed control.
Dedicated & Adjustable Clamping System
A dedicated clamping system firmly holds the cutting belt while moving it forward. These dual independent clamps are located on each side of the cutting belt. This belt clamping system eliminates any possibility of the belt slipping when the material is fed into the press, maintaining precision.
The feed clamp has independent adjustments to control the height and amount of pressure applied to the material to provide a flexible solution. The stationary clamp is lowered before the moving clamp is raised so material is always held securely during the process for constant accuracy. The feed can accelerate and decelerate rapidly with the feed clamp and belt clamp working simultaneously.
Die Cutting Presses with Servo Clamp Feed Control from Freeman Schwabe®
Freeman Schwabe® Machinery’s servo clamp feed’s performance and precision mitigate material usage by reducing scrap between cuts. Our solutions have eliminated scrap between cuts for our customers in rule-to-rule die cutting for many different applications and material types.
Contact Freeman Schwabe® for an application review for a solution to reduce material scrap and increase productivity in your die cutting processes.
Learn More About Die Cutting Machines & Clicker Presses from Freeman Schwabe®
Learn more about the types of Schwabe die cutting presses available or browse our in-stock and ready to ship die cutting press inventory.
