How a GMN Clutch Restored Timing Accuracy in a Paper Converting Application

A paper converting manufacturer was experiencing issues with their timing sprocket maintaining tension, causing inaccuracies in their production line. GMN engineers helped their team design a new setup to implement a sprag clutch within their existing system to hold tension on the rollers.

Converting Machinery

Converting machinery is the type of industrial equipment that quietly turns rolls of raw material like paper, plastic, and nonwoven fabrics or textiles into familiar products in everyday life: packaging products, hygiene items, labels and signage, etc.

In this type of machinery, it's common to see sprag clutches used to prevent reverse rotation and hold tension inside rollers and drive systems during sudden equipment stops or speed changes. It can also allow overrunning when needed in the case when a driven component rotates faster than the driving component.

The Challenge

In the case of one paper converting manufacturer, they came to us with a frustrating problem that kept throwing off their entire process. Their production line was designed to glue two sheets together in perfect alignment, but without a clutch in their roller and drive system, their timing sprocket was losing tension and even small speed differences between motors would throw everything else off pace.

To prevent more ruined projects and future failures, they turned to the help of GMN engineers with something specific in mind: assistance discovering a way to implement a sprag clutch without completely redesigning their existing setup.

How GMN Helped 

After a complete analysis of their system, our engineering team recommended a sprag clutch perfectly suited to their torque and functionality needs: the FE 473 Z Freewheel Clutch Insert Element.

GMN was able to provide an OTS (Off the Shelf) solution as the dimensions of our FE 473 were accommodating to the envelope dimensions allowing ease of installation.

GMN 400 Series sprag clutch insert elements are a versatile, cost-effective solution, especially when you’re working with multiple clutches or don't necessarily require built-in bearing support. These clutches are designed to deliver reliable torque performance while giving you the flexibility to build exactly the setup you need.

The Results

Overall, GMN was able to improve efficiency by providing a readily available, robust mechanical solution for maintaining accuracy in the timing of their machine, preventing downtime and further cost of repairs down the line. Over an evaluation period, the FE 473 Z operated without failure and showed no measurable signs of sprag degradation, further increasing time in between maintenance cycles (MTBR).

Talk to An Engineer

We can help with your next printing/converting project! Contact us to learn more about where we can provide support through design engineering, bearing inspections and troubleshooting, or application expertise.