A worldwide manufacturer of many types of plastic has manufacturing facilities around the world, including one in the southeast that makes PVC stretch film. Imagine the film used to wrap meat at your local neighborhood grocery store, or that you might use to keep leftovers fresh for later in the week. Although the plant is designed for precision and automation, sometimes mechanical components derail those plans and require operator interaction to correct the components shortcomings.  The clutch-brake on a turret winding system was not precise, which not only required operator interaction but also caused downtime.  Replacing the dry clutch brakes with Force Control Oil Shear clutch brakes eliminated downtime, increased accuracy and repeatability, and slashed operator involvement – all while increasing throughout.

Mechanical motion components, though relatively small, contribute immensely to the safety of multiple systems like automobiles, manufacturing systems, elevators, water treatment facilities, etc. Motion components experience wear and tear over time caused by:

• Friction as motion surfaces come into contact with adjacent components.
• Corrosion due to exposure to chemicals, humidity, and corrosive gasses
• Fatigue emanating from repetitive stress and strain.
• Improper lubrication and system overloads

The Power Transmission Distributors Association (PTDA) welcomes three new distributors to its membership including Gordon Russell, MROSupply.com and Grainger.