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 A
water jet paper cutting machine is currently in operation at CASCADES
Converdis plant in Berthierville, Québec. The mechanical section
of this machine was created by the automation division of the
Centre de recherche industrielle du Québec (CRIQ) and the control
section was created by Microtrol.
The water jet cutter was conceived to cut circular pieces of
paper.
Four bridges with longitudinal displacement each support a high
pressure water jet (60,000 psi) which move transversly on the
bridges. Cutting circular pieces is therefore effected while paper
travels at a constant speed. The premium quality of this machine
is it's flexibility. The computer, via a simple keyboard, programs
the motion controllers with dimensions and positionning. The machine
can cut circular pieces from 20 to 50 inches in diameter (mechanical
limit). It can also cut other shapes such as rectangular or square
pieces.
Microtrol designed a control system and operator interface to
effect these tasks and minimize operator intervention. Eight (8)
servomotors linked to a motion controller execute all cut patterns.
The machine cuts the pieces while the paper unrolls and travels
at a rate of 150 ft per minute. Hence, the control system compensates
for speed variations and the lateral position of the paper.
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