Sep 8, 2015
Threading paper machines requires the use of a narrow strip of paper, called a "tail". This tail is usually between 4 to 8 inches in width. The tail is fed from section to section. Once through one machine section, the tail is widened out to the full sheet width. Then, a new tail is cut which is threaded into the next section. This continues until the sheet is widened at the reel. The purpose of a water jet tail clip is to transfer the tail from the roll face of the preceding section and into the threading conveyors (either air chutes or ropes).
The water jet tail clip is made from fabricated steel and is equipped with a special high pressure nozzle used for cutting the tail. A doctor blade and holder are included with the assembly. An air pipe and a deflector pan are mounted to the tail clip. The water jet tail clip is retracted from the roll face for storage.
The water jet tail clip is normally in the STORE position off the roll face. For operation, the tail clip is moved into the READY position via the supplied controls. To initiate threading, the doctor blade loads into the roll face, the air pipe turns on and the high pressure water jet turns on. The clip automatically traverses inboard, cutting the tail and doctoring it from the roll. The air pipe blows the tail into the threading conveyors (air chutes or rope nip). Once the tail is threaded, the clip retracts to the READY position and the water jet tail clip and the air pipe are turned off. The doctor blade also unloads. The tail clip is then returned to the STORE position.
Refer to the operating manual that accompanied your water jet tail clip for comprehensive safety guidelines. The following are a few specific precautions, but by no means a complete list.
The original Beloit Water Jet Tail Clip was supplied with a Cougar Model S-10 pump. This is a direct-drive plunger pump capable of output pressures to 40,000 psi and flow rates of 0.42 gpm. The pump is powered by a 10 hp electric motor. The Cougar S-10 is designed for continuous-duty applications.
Take the following precautions when performing maintenance on the Cougar or other water pump:
The daily inspection includes before and after start-up checks that will help prevent failure of the equipment. Before start-up take the following actions:
Then listen for unusual sounds as the pump is started and water pressure increases.
For more information on the operation and maintenance of water jet tail cutting systems, contact your Valmet representative.