Davis-Standard debuts Model 3000A crosshead

Davis-Standard LLC, a Pawcatuck, Connecticut-based manufacturer and distributor of extrusion and converting technologies, has introduced its Model 3000A (automatic) crosshead for rubber hose applications. The Model 3000A crosshead enables hose manufacturers to reduce scrap and attain faster startup times for smaller lots. 

“Every component on the Model 3000A is engineered to improve processing while providing cost savings,” says Joe Wnuk, vice president of Davis-Standard Elastomer and Profile Systems. “There are production advantages when the crosshead is used as part of a fully integrated and automated elastomer line, or when used separately as a second step in the manufacturing process. In many cases, the return on investment can be realized in less than a year.”

The Model 3000A incorporates an automatic, servo-driven concentricity adjustment system. The proprietary system allows for adjustment of the core tube/tip assembly with a simple joystick control. According to Davis-Standard, this feature enables operators to minimize eccentricity, maximize concentricity and reduce downtime during product changeovers. Additionally, the servo drives enable monitoring and adjustments throughout the run to account for lot-to-lot variations, day and night variations and corrections for gum space adjustments. 

Davis-Standard reports that the crosshead does not require a hydraulic pump system or hoses because of its design. 

The crosshead features a tapered mandrel and highly engineered flow paths to ensure consistent flow through all speed ranges. Also, the thrust-bearing-supported core tube/pin assembly enables wall thickness modification under pressure without interruption, Davis-Standard reports in a news release. Die adjusting screws are located in removable inserts to protect the body from thread damage. Also, a larger surface area in the water jacket improves heat transfer efficiency.

Models are available to accommodate 2-inch, 3-inch, 4.5-inch and 5.5-inch diameter braids. 

“One of the best features of this automatic design is the precision adjustment,” Wnuk adds. “This contributes to material savings due to tighter tolerances within specifications. This is especially valuable with frequent product and dimension changes, which are becoming more and more common in the industry.”

“In addition to new lines, the Model 3000A crosshead can be integrated into an existing line,” says Wendell Whipple, vice president of global aftermarket sales at Davis-Standard. “In most cases, existing Model 2000 crossheads may be upgraded with this new automatic technology.”