Saurer Presents Quantum Leap In Process Automation

Machinery and Technology

Saurer Presents Quantum Leap In Process Automation

The new Autoconer X6 represents a quantum leap in process automation. With its revolutionary Bobbin Cloud material flow system based on radio frequency identification (RFID) technology, the Autoconer X6 takes a definitive step towards Automation 4.0 in the winding field. This E³-certified machine is distinguished by even lower resource consumption and increased production. With its outstanding winding technology, the Autoconer is and remains the globally recognised benchmark for quality yarn and package production.

Automation 4.0 with Bobbin Cloud, a revolution in material flow Characteristic features of the Bobbin Cloud include the decentralised processing aggregates and the material flow designed in a round loop. Like during a pit stop in Formula 1, the bobbins and tubes automatically move to the processing aggregates positioned along the guideways. In order to increase cycle speed and capacity, several bobbin preparation stations, which operate in parallel, can be installed. The winding units are supplied reliably with prepared bobbins directly from the Bobbin Cloud. The entire circuit functions as a material storage area.

The new optical tube inspector with infrared sensor is another important feature necessary for increased process reliability. Through noncontact scanning, it reliably detects single yarns and all yarn structures even at high cycle rates. Bobbin Cloud and RFID technology form the basis for a future-orientated direct link between Autoconer and ring spinning machine. A key feature is the integrated online quality monitoring system SPID. This means every spinning mill now has the opportunity to establish its quality level at the highest standard. Optimum machine networking and more intensive process automation are becoming the new standard.

Energy: up to 20% lower resource consumption

A comparison between the performances of the 5th and 6th Autoconer machine generations highlights the impact of process automation. The Autoconer X6 also offers attractive energy consumption reductions of up to 20%, which is mainly due to its high energy efficiency. All components and functions have been optimized in terms of this. These measures include improved aerodynamics in the airflow, state-of-the-art drives with high efficiency levels and the unique Power on Demand vacuum control.

Energy Monitoring, which continuously monitors compressed air and energy consumption online, helps the operating personnel to optimise winding processes in an energy-efficient manner and thus reduce costs.

But above all, the Autoconer X6 conserves the most valuable resource, the yarn, through perfectly coordinated winding and cycling processes. Here, Schlafhorst achieves unique improvements with a complete comprehensive solution. The upper yarn sensor, aerodynamically optimised suction nozzle, SmartCycle with intelligent cycling sequence and SmartJet in the doffer work in perfect harmony.

Economics: up to 6% higher productivity

The Autoconer X6 has been consistently designed for maximum economy. Extra-long machines with up to 96 winding units increase productivity per square metre. The Bobbin Cloud reliably supplies all winding units along the entire length with material at the highest cycle rates.

Benefit from the quality benchmark

Autoconer packages are considered the benchmark for package quality in the textile industry – both in commodity and special applications. Even in its basic configuration, the Autoconer ensures high-quality packages with many functional details; the package build offers high process reliability and thus higher benefits in downstream processing. With innovations in splicing technology, the Autoconer X6 offers interesting possibilities for successfully processing modern, sophisticated yarns.