SubscribeCable makers now have an affordable way to monitor and control tension in individual wires on a stranding machine.
The system transmits data by radio signal. This avoids the many drawbacks of mechanisms such as slip rings (cost, wear, signal noise, difficult installation) and telemetric systems (unidirectional analog data transmission, high cost). RTM technology makes these devices out of date.
FMS says the system can pay for itself typically in one to two years. By eliminating overstressing and excessive slack in wires, it reduces wire breaks and increases throughput. RTM improves the quality of the cables produced and it can open new markets for factories that presently operate without tension control.
The RTM equipment can be configured in various ways to handle nearly any tension control task. The system is reliable, accurate, economical, easy to operate, and virtually maintenance-free.
The monitoring system comprises tension sensors, amplifiers, a bus system with radio transceiver, and software. The components are specially designed for rotating applications and are all produced by FMS. A wide range of proven tension sensors is available. If control is required, controllers are used instead of amplifiers. The system can be powered by AC or DC (the battery pack can be changed in seconds).
The RTM system digitally monitors tension in up to 32 channels in real time and displays the values on a PC screen. Control is easy from a PC or PLC. The amplifiers can be parameterized from the PC. Controllers drive the brakes and can be adjusted from the PC while the machine is running. The system can stop the machine immediately in case of a wire break. It records minimum and maximum values for quality assurances purposes.
This is the world's first RTM system designed specifically for the wire and cable industry. It was developed by FMS Force Measuring Systems AG, a Swiss company that designs and manufactures precision devices and systems for tension measurement and control, especially for rotating applications. The company was founded in 1993 and offers its products and services worldwide.