Table of Contents
Recognizing the Need for Service
Regular maintenance and timely servicing of your stretch hood machine are crucial to ensure its optimal performance and longevity. By paying attention to the following signs and understanding the typical spare parts required, you can proactively maintain your machine and prevent costly breakdowns:
- Signs That Service is Necessary:
- Decreased Efficiency: If you notice a drop in packaging efficiency or a decrease in the output speed of your stretch hood machine, it may be a sign that some components need attention.
- Unusual Noises: Unusual or loud noises during machine operation can indicate issues with bearings, gears, or other moving parts.
- Material Wrinkling or Tearing: If the stretchhood material is wrinkling excessively or tearing during the wrapping process, it is likely due to wear on the stretch hood frame. This may be caused, for example, by the grippers, the coating or the pom-reels.
- Inconsistent Stretching: Variations in the film tension or film application can result in uneven packaging. Check for consistent film stretching and sealing.
- Increased Film Usage: A sudden increase in the amount of stretchhood being consumed for each pallet load may be a sign that the machine isn’t properly tensioning or applying the film.
- Visible Wear and Tear: Obvious signs of deterioration like loose components, worn belts or fraying wires.
- Error Messages: Pay attention to error messages or fault codes displayed by the machine’s control system. These messages can provide valuable insights into specific issues that require attention.
- Frequent Operational Failures: If the machine stops mid-processing more frequently than usual or fails to start.
- Poorly cut stretch hoods: If the knives are not sharp, there may be problems with cutting off the stretch hoods
- Typical Spare Parts:
To prepare for routine maintenance and potential repairs, keep these typical spare parts on hand:
- Welding Bars: These are crucial for creating a secure seal on the stretchhood. Over time, they may become worn or damaged. In general, it can be said that the sealing bars should be replaced after approximately 10,000 pallets to avoid a fire risk
- Bearings and Bushings: These components can wear out, leading to increased friction and decreased machine efficiency.
- Sensors: Optical sensors and limit switches can malfunction, causing errors in film positioning and tension.
- Electrical Components: Keep extra fuses, relays, and control panel components for quick replacements in case of electrical issues.
- Pneumatic Parts: Valves, cylinders, and hoses should be periodically checked and replaced as needed.
- Other possible spare parts: knives, rollers and their coating, chains, gears, grippers, reef motor, gripper wheel
Emergency Repair Packages: RHM Packaging puts together individual packages for emergency repairs tailored to your machine’s specific model and needs. These packages include essential spare parts and components necessary for immediate on-site repairs during unexpected breakdowns or critical maintenance situations. That’s how we ensure that you have the necessary spare parts readily available to minimize downtime and quickly address any unforeseen issues with your stretch hood machine.
Interesting Upgrades for your Stretchhood Machine
Our aim is to enhance your efficiency and workplace safety!
Upgrading your stretch hood machine can significantly improve efficiency and workplace safety. Here are some possible upgrades to consider:
- Control Panel: It features advanced technology and a user-friendly interface that makes it easy to monitor and control machine functions. The panel also features a visual fault indicator that quickly identifies and locates problems, helping to minimize downtime and improve efficiency. In addition, the RHM panel can be integrated with Siemens panels for seamless integration.
- Workplace Safety Software-Update: How can our software update increase workplace safety? Currently, when film breaks or gets stuck in the machine, an employee usually has to climb into the machine to cut out the film or unblock it. Due to our software update, even in case of error indications, the film can be unrolled simply by pressing a button. This means that a film blockage can no longer occur. Alternatively, the update allows the entire frame of the Stretchhood machine to be lowered, then an employee can remove the film from the ground.
- RHM20 Grippers: In case of frequent film breakage or stretch hood problems, the RHM gripper can be a solution. They are made with wear-resistant materials and have film detection sensors that prevent breakage.
- Safety Enhancements: Ensure that all safety features are up-to-date and working properly.Consider installing additional safety devices like light curtains or emergency stop buttons.
- Energy Efficiency: look for energy-saving upgrades such as converting from hydraulic to electric stretch frames. This conversion is reducing operating costs.
Typical Problems and Solutions
Despite regular maintenance and upgrades, stretch hood machines can encounter problems. Here are some common issues and how RHM Packaging can help you resolve them:
Problem: Film Breakage
Solution: There are several possibilities that can lead to film breakage. From the machine side, RHM Packaging can check machine settings and inspect all parts during a service that can lead to film breakage. Furthermore, it can also be caused by the film. Therefore, RHM cooperates with the film manufacturer DUO PLAST. With us, there is no finger pointing as to who is responsible for the problems – together we can develop a solution for you.
Problem: Inconsistent Sealing
Solution: Ensure that the sealing bars are clean and in good condition. Adjust the temperature and pressure settings as required. If problems persist, contact RHM Packaging for assistance.
Problem: Wrinkled Film and Film Slippage
Solution: Check the tensioning devices for proper alignment and tension adjustment. Use premium stretchhood to reduce the likelihood of wrinkles.
Problem: Machine Downtime
Solution: Regularly scheduled maintenance and inspections by RHM Packaging technicians can help prevent unexpected downtime. Consider implementing remote monitoring for proactive issue detection. In case of unexpected breakdowns, RHM has a service hotline that is available to you at any time: +(45) 6468 9568
- Stretchhood Machine Maintenance Checklist
Use this checklist to ensure you’re on top of your stretch hood machine’s maintenance needs:
- Regularly inspect the machine for signs of wear or damage.
- Clean and lubricate moving parts as recommended by the manufacturer.
- Check film tension and alignment.
- Monitor film roll usage to identify any sudden increases.
- Keep an inventory of spare parts for quick replacements.
- Conduct operator training on machine operation and safety.
- Schedule routine maintenance and inspections with RHM Packaging.
By following this guide and staying proactive in maintaining your stretch hood machine, you can maximize its efficiency, extend its lifespan, minimize costly downtime and avoid production stops. For further assistance and support, contact RHM Packaging’s technical team.