MOXON TIMBERS - TIMBER STRESS-GRADING MACHINE


DESCRIPTION
Moxon Timbers approached MPA Engineering to upgrade control technology on their timber stress-grading machine, which was designed in the early 1970’s. The machine controls were outdated, with some requiring manual operation, the gearbox had to be adjusted manually from inside the machine, making it cumbersome to vary the speed and some additional safety features were also required.

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
Engineering staff from MPA worked closely with staff from Moxon Timbers, to design, program and install the new system, using a Siemens S7200 224 PLC, Siemens MM440 Variable Speed Drive, Siemens OP3 Operator Panel, SMC Pneumatics, CMG motor/gearbox and SICK Safety Relays. For improved performance, MPA ensured that all of the mechanical specifications and drive features were fully operational, and the original grading algorithm was interpreted and adjusted to suit the new control system.

To set parameters for bending limits – which define timber grades and their bending pressure – an Operator Panel was installed, making it easier to calibrate the process. Using a reference bar and by pressing a button on the Operator Panel, the bending sensors on the machine are readily set to zero. With fewer manual adjustments required by the operator and with a turn of the dial, the timber stress-grading machine can process timber at between 30 and 80 metres per minute. Statistical data from each batch of timber can now be collated in a timely manner. Batch quantities with averages can be collected, and the speed can be read and adjusted accurately on a dial – with the runtime recorded in hours, as well as kilometres – which is a necessary feature for assisting in maintenance requirements.

PLC

Siemens S7200 224 PLC; Siemens MM440 Variable Speed Drive; Siemens OP3 Operator Panel; SMC Pneumatics; CMG motor/gearbox; and SICK Safety Relays (UE43-2’s).

PROJECT COST $28,000

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