To make the processes more efficient and simpler, the decision-makers at BDW chose to implement the spindle movement with a 24 V motor in the future. This had far-reaching consequences: Since the diameter of the upper chord can range between 4 and 16 millimeters, depending on the product, and other parameters also need to be taken into account, it is not possible to specify one universal switch-off point for the motor that adjusts the straightening rollers via the spindle.
“With other straightening equipment, we use sensors to determine end positions,” explains Luis. “But in this case, the rollers are interlocked, and we run a wide variety of different wires through them, so that would have been extremely expensive.” The possible variants all had disadvantages, as he explains: “For example, we would have had to install multiple sensors, including cables, in an area that places very high demands on the components in terms of vibration. Our next approach was a conventional motor protection switch. We rejected that option because every time it tripped, it would have required an electrician to acknowledge it at the control cabinet. That would have been totally unacceptable.”