Timing screws are fundamental to the operation of various packaging machines on your production line. They play a key role in the precise movement and alignment of products on conveyor systems. Given their multiple contact points with your products, regular maintenance is crucial for maintaining product integrity.
Regular inspection and maintenance of timing screws are key to maintaining the efficiency and reliability of your production line. This blog post will cover the best methods for inspecting timing screws to ensure they work effectively and minimize downtime.
Signs of Wear
First, we will look at common signs of wear in timing screws. Being able to identify them is key to any inspection process.
- Discoloration of Plastic: Any noticeable color changes in the plastic components.
- Cuts or Grooves in the Plastic: Any cuts, grooves, or abrasions on the plastic.
- Large Gashes: Significant gashes or deep cuts in the plastic.
- Rounded Thread Edges: Rounding of the leading edges of the screw's threads.
- Flattening/Deflection of Threads: Any flattening or deflection of the threads, which may result from mishandling or improper use.
- Worn Drive and Idle Coupling Pins/Slots: Enlarged coupling pins or slots.
- Rough Burrs: Rough burrs, which may affect the screw's movement or damage products.
Types of Inspections
After understanding the signs of wear to look for, we recommend performing the following three types of inspections.
Visual Inspection
Start with a visual inspection. Check for signs of wear in your timing screws. If you see anything that is among the signs of wear above, it is likely time to replace those screws.
Physical Inspection
Touch the screw to see if you can feel any imperfections. Even slight gashes, cuts, or grooves can scuff containers and labels, leaving damage on your products and possibly deeming them unfit for sale.
Performance Inspection
Are you able to attain throughput? Are your products being damaged? Are you running at the speed that you need to? Any and all of these items impact performance, and if you are experiencing any of these, refer to original setup instructions from the manufacturer of your timing screws or contact them directly for assistance.
For example, you may need to adjust conveyor and screw speeds.
Replacing Timing Screws
If timing screws fail any of the above inspections, it is time for replacement. We suggest that you let us develop inventory and measurements of the timing screws on your production line. This way, when it is time to replace them, we will have all of the necessary specifications, and could quickly produce a new timing screw for you.
To take advantage of this complimentary service, give us a call at +1 (708) 756-6660 or reach out to us on our website. We are here to help you accomplish your packaging goals!
