Page 48 - Plastics News August 2018

PRODUCT NEWS

Davis-Standard Launches DS Activ-Check for Extrusion Monitoring

avis-Standard has released its DS Activ-Check system and electrical system conditions is essential in order to
Dfor continuous extruder monitoring. This technology bring products to market faster and minimize unplanned
is an available option with Davis-Standard’s Integrator, downtime.
Epic III and DS-eVue control systems. Activ-Check enables
processors to take advantage of real-time predictive Velcro Releases New Hook-to-
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extruder failures. Machine operators are alerted to issues Hook Closure
before they happen, reducing unplanned downtime while
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via e-mail or text, and continuous monitoring of production Vhook closure system with unique sealant technology,
machine status is available on smart devices and remote allowing manufacturers to more easily and rapidly
PCs. Key parameters monitored include extruder reducer, LQWHJUDWH WKH FORVXUHV LQWR WKHLU ÁH[LEOH SDFNDJHV DQG
lubrication system, motor characteristics, the drive pouches. The new VELCRO Brand PRESS-LOK Advanced
952 closures extend the company’s line of consumer-
friendly package fasteners that brands across industries
rely on to distinguish themselves on the shelf and
provide consumers with closure assurance. Velcro Brand
PRESS-LOK Advanced closures can be heat-sealed to
plastic packaging at lower temperatures and installed
on a wider range of machinery, expanding the scope of
potential applications for the closure. Sealing at lower
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the package converter and also improves the package
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product categories such as frozen foods and products
power unit, barrel heating and cooling. The system is in large bags, such as pet food, fertilizer or soil.
easy to operate due to overview screens that provide a &RQVXPHUV ZLOO DOVR EHQHÀW IURP SURGXFWV IHDWXULQJ WKH
quick reference of monitor points and trend windows,
providing a graphic indication of measurements. Users can
touch a location to view details, or use on-screen set-up
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extruder reducer provide data regarding the condition of
the gears, bearings and lubrication system. The extruder
motor is supplied with combination temperature sensors
and vibration sensors.
The reducer lubrication system (if provided), includes
pressure, flow and temperature sensors to indicate
system performance. Operators are also able to monitor new closures. In particular, large pouches have wide
key health indicator parameters in the drive power unit, openings which can be challenging for consumers to seal
providing an early indicator of potential power unit issues. precisely with existing closure systems. As PRESS-LOK
“The Activ-Check system provides much-needed data Advanced closures feature VELCRO Brand’s exclusive
for processors to improve performance, including being hook-to-hook fastening solution, consumers can align
able to plan production around scheduled maintenance the seal perfectly and reliably. The closures offer an
activities,” notes John Clemens, director of extrusion ease-of-use for both the young and old, and those with
controls at Davis-Standard. “Having the capability to dexterity issues. VELCR Brand PRESS-LOK Advanced
monitor extrusion line variables such as mechanical closures are also recycle-ready.

Plastics News August 2018 48