Electronic Nip Analysis System Measures Roller Profiles And Diagnoses Roll Alignment

Madison, NJ – Sensor Products Inc. introduces Mini Sigma-Nip, an electronic nip analysis system that measures roller profiles and diagnoses roll alignment with unprecedented speed, cost-effectiveness, and accuracy. While Sigma-Nip characterizes profiles for large rolls, Mini Sigma-Nip provides a unique solution for measuring nip widths of rolls with circumferences smaller than 20" (51cm) which are often used in converting and printing operations. For the first time ever, large bone-hard rolls with narrow contact areas can also be characterized by an electronic system.

Mini Sigma-Nip's sensors capture data and record nip width readings while being viewed on a laptop containing its Windows-based software. Adjustments to load are made in real time while the sensors are in the closed, (non-rotating) nip. Problems with alignment, skewing, and crown deficiencies are quickly exposed. Minimal computer knowledge or training is needed, since the system prompts the user through the few steps needed for installation and set up. Software enhancements include a Comparison Mode, where up to three nip width readings can be viewed simultaneously, and an Alignment Tool, which instantly draws a line to indicate nip width variations.

In Mini Sigma-Nip, the 168 microscopic sensor points that comprise each finger are densely packed within a smaller 3.3 in. (8.4 cm) active sensing area. This yields nip measurements with 2.5 times the resolution of the larger Sigma-Nip, which is a powerful new diagnostic tool that is principally used for pulp & paper manufacture and some converting operations.

Mini Sigma-Nip is extremely useful for continuous maintenance, as well as during equipment setup and shutdown. Data that has been stored can be easily reviewed. Blanket life is extended by virtue of routine tests. Web control is improved as evenly loaded roller sets are much less likely to cause web breaks and costly down time. Uneven material pulling, sheet walking, wrinkles, jams and print misregistration are greatly reduced.

SOURCE: Sensor Products Inc.