Optimizing idler diameter
Abstract
The idler is probably the most common roller in web handling, but it is one of the least studied. It influences both the highest and lowest tension we can run, and can defeat the most sophisticated tension control schemes. Inertia and bearing drag both upset tension during transient conditions. Idler diameter is one variable that can affect both. Too small a diameter can result in wrinkles caused by deflection, or web damage from bending stress. Too large an idler can result in loss of traction from air entrainment and unnecessarily high equipment cost. Hopefully, there is a diameter that can satisfy all requirements. This paper looks at several factors that must be considered while selecting the best diameter for idlers to minimize their impact on the web path.
Citation
Lynch, R. (2017, June). Optimizing idler diameter. Paper presented at the Fourteenth International Conference on Web Handling (IWEB), Stillwater, OK.