A web buffer is a controlled mechanical to decouple two machine parts with different behavior in ramp up and ramp down phase. Also you can handle disturbances on one machine part, without an short term influence on a second machine part. The stored web material is pulled into or released from the buffer. The more material is stored in the web buffer, the longer the time you can bridge the gap in material supply.
You can let the machine stay at controlled production speed, when the reel for supply of web material is empty and needs to be exchanged. While the splice process is takes place, the machine can run with secured material supply and later return easily to full production speed.
Key Features & Benefits
Increased Machine Availability: The web buffer decouples upstream and downstream processes. This allows for a constant production speed even during a material change (e.g., reel change) and absorbs disturbances without affecting the overall production.
All-in-One Mechatronic Solution: The solution provides a fully integrated and coordinated system comprising linear technology, a motor, a drive, and a controller, which simplifies integration into the machine.
Flexible Synchronization and Precise Control: Thanks to various connectivity options like OPC-UA, encoder signals, or digital signals, the web buffer can be flexibly integrated into existing machine architectures and ensures high process stability by means of web tension control.
Integrated Safety Functions: The implementation of machine safety is simplified by certified drive functions such as STO (Safe Torque Off) or SafeMotion, according to the machine risk analysis.