As the composite, wire and cable, textiles and packaging industries manufacture increasingly complex products, the tension control needs of fiber, wire and web equipment are also growing proportionally. For example, load cells must effectively measure the tension on the equipment processes that handle different materials, meet several product specifications and accommodate various accessories. They must manage longstanding challenges such as signal integrity and space constraints, all while keeping costs in check.
To address these issues in demanding industries, it’s important to look for a load cell that combines performance, design flexibility and exceptional value in a space-saving unit. One example is our innovative WAT+ load cell. The Size 1 modular package covers the 50N-250N-500N (10-50-110 pounds), and Size 2 covers 1000-2500-5000N (225-560-1,125 pounds). The load cell can be used on single spools, creels and multi-spool applications.
The WAT+ package features a universal design that can accommodate a host of accessories, pulley or shaft configurations, including cantilever mounting. In fact, users can design their own accessories to meet various specifications such as shape, length or surface treatments. Customers can even save on costs by using the same accessories, regardless of the force range they select. This versatility makes WAT+ suitable for a wide range of applications.
At Redex, we recently added an innovative new version to the WAT+ force transducer lineup and developed a dual implementation that balances exceptional accuracy and cost savings. Here is an overview:
- WAT+.sp. Our latest-generation WAT+ load cell comes with a signal amplifier embedded into its core, providing a signal output 1,000 times larger which addresses electromagnetic interference (EMI), ensuring highly reliable measurement signals, even through a slip ring or rotary union.
The integration of a precision brake or motor, closed loop controller and load cell provides an accurate and reliable tension control solution with stability and space savings for automated tape layup and automated fiber placement in composite applications, as well as planetary rotating in cable and wire applications. - Dual solution. A standard WAT+ can be integrated on one side of the roller and the WAT+.sl on the other side of the roller. This arrangement balances deflection between the two units and protects against misalignment or zero measurement drift issues. WAT+.sl is gauge-free and without connectors, making it a cost-effective option especially when the web is always centered on rollers.
Redex Sensor Load Cells Are Up to the Challenge
Today’s fiber, wire and web processes are tasked with handling various materials of different sizes at higher speeds and with greater throughput demands. Not every load cell is equipped to handle all of these requirements. WAT+ force transducers give machine builders the flexibility they need to address a wide range of challenges to meet their quality and production goals. Be sure to speak with a Redex sales engineer to help you select the right differential WAT+ force transducer for your demanding composite, wire or cable process.
For more information about the WAT+ force transducer family, please visit our product page.