Motor Speed Control

VFDs are used to control the speed of various motors in printing equipment such as printing presses, rollers, and conveyors. By adjusting the frequency and voltage supplied to the motor, VFDs enable fine-tuning of motor speed, resulting in better print quality and reduced waste. VFDs allow for gradual acceleration and deceleration, preventing sudden jolts or jerks that could affect the printing process.

Energy Efficiency

VFDs help in optimizing energy consumption by allowing motors to operate at variable speeds based on the printing requirements. Unlike traditional motor control methods like throttling valves or mechanical speed changers, VFDs can adjust the motor speed dynamically, matching it to the specific workload. This energy-saving capability is particularly useful in printing applications where different print sizes or production volumes are involved.

Tension Control

In printing processes that involve continuous web or roll materials, maintaining proper tension is critical for precise control of material feeding and printing accuracy. VFDs play a crucial role in tension control systems by regulating the speed of motors that control web tension. By adjusting motor speed in real-time, VFDs ensure consistent and uniform tension throughout the printing process, resulting in improved print quality and reduced material waste.

Conveyor Systems

Printing facilities often rely on conveyor systems to transport printed materials between different stages of the production line. VFDs are used to control the speed of conveyor motors, enabling efficient and smooth material handling. By adjusting the motor speed, VFDs allow for synchronisation with upstream and downstream processes, ensuring a seamless flow of printed materials and preventing bottlenecks.

Print Quality Control

VFDs enable precise control over motor speed and torque, which directly impacts print quality. By maintaining consistent and accurate motor speed, VFDs help prevent issues such as banding, smearing, or misalignment of print elements. Additionally, VFDs allow for quick adjustments during the printing process, facilitating on-the-fly corrections and minimizing the need for manual intervention.

Maintenance and Protection

VFDs incorporate various protective features to safeguard motors and printing equipment. They can monitor motor performance, detect faults, and provide motor overload protection. VFDs can also offer diagnostic information and fault history, assisting in preventive maintenance and troubleshooting.

Sumitomo Drive Technologies - products for Printing

Lafert Motor

High efficiency and customised electric motors for Printing applications

lafert.com

Power transmission products, gearboxes and gear motors for Printing applications

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Printing case studies

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