Web thread-up on tissue converting equipment is one of the most important tasks an operator can perform. Traditionally, it is also inefficient, wasteful, and potentially dangerous.
Why? The web thread-up procedure is well established and hasn’t been deviated from in decades. The production line is slowed to a jog rate (about 5 m/min.) and operators are required to climb in and out of equipment to guide web tails along the web path in close range of moving — and therefore dangerous — parts. The process is slow and inherently risky; stressors that are amplified by the need to get the line restarted as soon as possible.
