Care for bearings and belts that boost your folding and gluing process

Folder-gluers contain bearings in nearly all their modules. These parts are essential for enabling the continuous and smooth movement of the internal components, supporting loads and reducing friction even under high-speed conditions. BOBST Certified bearings are carefully selected and rigorously tested to meet the highest standards of resistance, stability and operational longevity. However, proper care is crucial to avoid variations in product quality or performance issues that could affect productivity. “It is essential to regularly perform proper maintenance on the bearings, following the cleaning and lubrication manuals developed by BOBST. This is what ensures precise and flawless delivery to the end customer,” emphasizes Adriano Montico, Technical Instructor for BOBST folder-gluers.

Belts also play a vital role in the operation of folder-gluers. They are responsible for transporting packaging throughout the entire process, from input to final delivery. This precise and synchronized movement enables the folding and gluing process to be performed accurately, resulting in zero-fault packaging at the end of the process. The main types of belts used include flat belts, which move the packaging between different modules of the equipment, and transmission belts, which transfer force and motion between the machine’s internal components. Adriano points out, “The life span of these components is directly related to routine care during operation, such as ensuring correct tensioning, regular and adequate cleaning as well as constant monitoring of their alignment. This helps prevent unbalanced forces that can accelerate wear.” Improper adjustment or operation with worn belts can compromise process precision and overall equipment stability, potentially damage the final packaging, whether made of folding carton, litho-laminated or corrugated board.

Belts and bearings maintenance

To ensure that the equipment operates at peak performance and the folding and gluing process delivers perfect results, it is essential to use BOBST Certified spare parts and consumables. “When using bearings, belts and other items such as the lower glue disc and the glue scraper, it is essential to follow the technical standards required by the manufacturer. This is what ensures that, with each preventive or corrective maintenance intervention, your folder-gluer returns to producing with the performance and reliability for which BOBST machines are known,” highlights Adriano. The use of non-certified parts can lead to dimensional inconsistencies, lower quality materials and premature failures that negatively impact productivity and operational safety.

“Following the maintenance plan outlined in the machine manual, performing regular visual inspections, monitoring noise and vibrations, keeping the equipment clean and using the proper tools for belt tensioning and alignment are all measures that help keep the equipment operating at its best.” completes Adriano.

Whether packaging is made of folding carton, litho-laminated or corrugated board, bearings and belts are not just spare parts, they are strategic components ensuring the efficiency, quality and reliability of the process. The care taken with these essential parts directly impacts your equipment’s performance and your customers’ satisfaction.

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