Double sheet detector saves production jams

Packaging Solutions

Sensor manufacturer Sick has introduced a ‘plug and play’ double sheet detector that promises to cut downtime and scrap in printing and packaging operations.

The UD18-2 can be set up easily by the user to be sensitive to a range of sheet thicknesses and to determine whether there are no sheets, or one, two or more layers of material present. The sensor uses ultrasonic technology to check for double layers, splices, labels or glue residues and offers reliable detection independent of the colour, gloss, transparency or reflectivity of the material.

‘Mishandling of sheets, missing sheets or double sheets cause multiple stoppages, downstream roller jams and lost material,’ commented Darren Pratt, distance sensor product manager. ‘An inexpensive investment in a UD18-2 sensor could pay for itself by preventing just one jam, by maintaining machine availability and reducing the need for operator supervision and maintenance. It even picks up stray labels and seams which can cause jams.’

The UD18-2 comprises a compact ultrasonic sender and receiver that detect materials from 20 g/m2 to 2000 g/m2. LED indicators viewable at any angle indicate clearly whether none, one or more than two sheets are detected, making it easy to monitor double sheet detections.

For easy mounting, the UD18-2 is available in right angle or straight configurations. Sender and receiver can be mounted between 20 and 60 mm apart to suit the requirements of the machine. For most applications the sensor is plug and play with no need for adjustment. However, for materials with a particularly low or high density, the UD18-2 also has three sensitivity settings, which can be pre-set and activated via digital inputs during operation to suit changes of material, minimising machine downtime.

The UD18-2’s reliability is not affected by atmospheric conditions or by heat, humidity, moisture or dust and therefore suits a wide range of production conditions.