Slitter-Rewinder Packed with Safety Features

At the upcoming PTXPO, Parkinson Technologies will be distributing literature on its new Dusenbery branded product, the MasterSlit DC2 duplex center slitter rewinder. The DC2, based on the original Dusenbery 635, now incorporates safety features in compliance with upcoming national and industry standards along with operator interface refinements that further improve productivity.

To address the challenges to operator safety and ergonomics when producing larger finished rolls at higher operating speeds, Dusenbery has incorporated the latest updated safety standards published by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) and the Plastics Industry Association. These updates include integrating new guarding and safety features. On the material inlet end, a transparent barrier guard remains locked during high-speed operation and provides safe viewing of the process without exposure to the hazards associated with slitting materials at high speeds.

When required to enter the slitting area for setup or threading material through the machine, a new control station enables the operator to request safe entry. Once the request is made, access is declined until the machine reaches the safe speed specified in the newest safety guidelines. The latest hardware and software are used to monitor the machine’s operation to ensure that all safety-related functions are maintained should a machine malfunction occur.

Another new machine feature provides safe inspection of the winding area with the use of a hold-to-run device. When engaged, this hand-held device slows the machine to a safe speed and initiates a 2-min. timer that allows entry into the area while certain functions are temporarily and safely disabled. This feature gives the operator the ability to safely obtain a close-up view of how the material is wound and complete common quality checks such as roll hardness, edge profile, and core alignment. Failure to exit the winding area before the timer runs out or if the hold-to-run button is let go during the timer will cause an immediate emergency stop of the machine.

Dusenbery also implemented enhancements to the machine interface to provide an enhanced user experience. The team understands that as machines advance and become more sophisticated to handle high product throughput, quality, and safety, the user's experience shouldn't feel overwhelming or cumbersome to navigate. Many new features such as enhanced diagnostics, component status, and more straightforward navigation provide an intuitive experience for operators.