Martin Automatic to present new MDR technology at INDEX

Martin Automatic will exhibit its MDR (Magnetic Driven Roller) system, a solution for handling light webs at lower tension levels and higher operating speeds, at the INDEX 08 expo in Geneva. The new MDR technology can be applied to both web transport systems and to Martin’s line of unwinds.

‘The continued emphasis in converting and printing today is to increase throughput by increasing process speeds,’ said Mike O’Hea, product manager for the MDR project. ‘At the same time, substrate weights and calipers continue to decrease. These lighter material structures can only run successfully at lower web tension levels, restricting the ability to reach higher speeds.

‘Martin manufactures zero speed splicers for non wovens and other extensible webs. For good reasons, zero speed splicing of non wovens (using a storage festoon or accumulator to pay out web while the splice is made) is the preferred and often necessary method of automatic roll changing. But these opposing trends of lower tensions and higher speeds present real challenges for splicing and web handling. The MDR is an effective new tool to overcome these challenges.’

MDR (patent pending) applies a magnetic link between web transport rollers and drive system, which is reported to substantially reduce or eliminate the negative impacts on a web resulting from roller inertia, bearing friction, speed change, and boundary layer air. The result is a system that operates at higher speed and lower web tension, says the company, and MDR technology enables equipment to retain a smaller physical size than equipment without this technology.

‘Martin has matched process speeds of up to 610 m/min (2000 ft/min) with our light web zero-speed splicers. MDR will enable splicing speeds well beyond this level, helping our customers improve their productivity,’ O’Hea concluded.

Also on the Martin stand will be an MSL unit (pictured). This cantilevered splice is designed for easy operator access and thread-up. The flexibility of the MSL allows it to be mounted in any orientation, making it ideal for retrofitting to existing unwind equipment. The MSL is available as part of a complete Martin Automatic splicing system, a separate unit for integration by the customer, or as a retrofit for existing splicing systems.

At INDEX 08, visitors will be able to see a high speed demonstration of Martin’s MDR technology running a lightweight non woven web.