TECHNOLOGY | CONTROL


Right: Reifenhäuser and Maku have developed automation systems for coextrusion adapters and slot dies


Epic performance Davis-Standard has launched the latest version of its Epic supervisory control technology. Epic IV builds on the user-friendly


approach of its predecessor while enhancing the operator’s experience and adding connectivity to the company’s cloud-based solution, DS Activ-Check. Benefits include improved


graphics and symbols, addi- tional diagnostic and efficiency tools, and screens focused on active functions and alerts. “The system uses a high-performance HMI


approach to strengthen the operator’s experience,” said John Clemens, director of extrusion controls at Davis-Standard. A new colour scheme focuses the operator’s


attention on active functions and alerts. It also helps operators with colour vision deficiency by using shapes to indicate machine status. “Overall, this will be a better supervisory control


Below: Davis-Stand- ard’s DS-XEL control system replaces mature discrete controls and adds HMI features


package for global installations moving forward,” said Clemens. The ‘smart’ technology of DS Activ-Check enables real-time predictive maintenance by providing early notifications of potential machine failures. As a result, operators are alerted to issues before they happen, reducing unplanned down- time and collecting valuable data in sync with Epic IV control features. Key parameters monitored include extruder


reducer, lubrication system, motor characteristics, drive power unit, barrel heating and cooling functions. The system replaces its predecessors as the


standard offering for supervisory control on all new Davis-Standard extruders. It will also be available as an upgrade for existing Epic users.


Higher functionality Davis-Standard says that its DS-XEL control system replaces mature discrete controls and implements high-perfor- mance HMI features to meet the data and process information needs of modern manufacturing. It focuses on active functions


for a better operator experience and improved connectivity, according to the company. The DS-XEL will be the new standard control for Davis-Standard’s Super Blue and HPE extruder lines and is compatible with the


DS Activ-Check cloud-based


platform. It is also available as an upgrade to existing extruder controls. “This controller merges the latest PLC and HMI


offerings to enable an operator-friendly package with greater attention to detail,” said Clemens. “It also incorporates key features only available with larger system controllers for troubleshooting and process improvement.” The system shows on-screen graphic trending of essential extruder parameters, with visual tracking of temperature, barrel pressure, motor speed and motor load. Speed deviation from setpoint is displayed, along with an extruder maintenance run timer and heater zone alarms – indicating devia- tion, process temperature, power failure, heater load and sensor break. Maximum, minimum and average motor load is captured during each production run. Recipe creation and storage allows repeatability


of multiple products on the same line. Other advantages include process alarm


logging, real-time and historical data trending, auto and self-tuning of heat zones for quick die changes, and an on-screen display of individual zone heaters.


Die control Reifenhäuser now offers an automation option for slot dies and coextrusion adapters, through a partnership with Maku. The PAM (precise, autonomous, mechatronic) system is available as an automation option for new Reifenhäuser dies and adapters – and for aftermarket dies from all manufacturers. PAM allows producers in flat film and sheet


production – and extrusion coating – to control the entire hot part (coextrusion adapter and die) via the line’s control panel. This is faster and more


38 FILM & SHEET EXTRUSION | March 2023 www.filmandsheet.com


IMAGE: DAVIS-STANDARD


IMAGE: REIFENHAUSER


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