adccommunitymod (AutomationDirect) asked a question.
Created Date: June 16,2009
Created By: JKW
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Question - we have a custom made processing machine that functions like this; - raw product is held in position on both sides by 2 separate conveyor chains until it is cut in half and separated so both halves can be processed further. both conveyor chains are currently driven by the same gearbox and motor+VFD. Due to the configuration of the machine, it takes a complicated arrangement of chains, sprockets, bearings, and gears to transmit the power to both conveyors. This arrangement is tough to maintain and a source of significant downtime on the machine. I am interested in installing a drive on each conveyor, but need a way to make sure both conveyors are traveling at exactly the same speed regardless of changes that each side might see in the load. These motors would also have to be integrated into the existing PLC logic. Any ideas on the cheapest and simplest way to do that would be appreciated. Thanks
Created Date: June 16,2009
Created by: jonesjeremya
I have seen machines with a similar technology as you describe, in my industry. Your best bet to achieve the functionality you describe is to use a synchronized servo system. This is the only way I know of that would offer any sort of reliability or consistency. In the past the units I saw were made by SBC (now owned by Parker Hannifin) and utilized the "HPD " drive. Which consisted of a master and slave unit.
I feel certain Sureservo units will do as you spec'd. The have such a feature whereby they act together in a master/slave configuration like you describe. you should visit sureservo.com to learn more about the product, as well as to download the sizing software so you can calculate the unit needed for your application. I do recommend using 1Kw or greater motors. I have not been impressed with the 750w and lower motors. But all said I like the product and have used it several times myself with total success. Each servo/motor combo could cost about $1500-$2500 per unit. So you would be looking at $3000-$5000 just for the servo motors, amps, cables, accessories.
Hope this helps,
Jeremy
P.S. Maybe tech support can chime in and confirm my statements. I seem to remember dual servo functionality with Sureservo, but have not used it myself. I think you can have a Master servo, and a follower servo, that mimics the movement commanded by the Master.
Created Date: June 16,2009
Created by: JKW
Question - we have a custom made processing machine that functions like this;
- raw product is held in position on both sides by 2 separate conveyor chains until it is cut in half and separated so both halves can be processed further.
both conveyor chains are currently driven by the same gearbox and motor+VFD. Due to the configuration of the machine, it takes a complicated arrangement of chains, sprockets, bearings, and gears to transmit the power to both conveyors. This arrangement is tough to maintain and a source of significant downtime on the machine.
I am interested in installing a drive on each conveyor, but need a way to make sure both conveyors are traveling at exactly the same speed regardless of changes that each side might see in the load. These motors would also have to be integrated into the existing PLC logic. Any ideas on the cheapest and simplest way to do that would be appreciated. Thanks