Edge Crack Detection
Monarch Paper Group’s Edge Crack Detection System identifies edge cracks along a moving web. Tracking the number of edge cracks helps pinpoint process issues, allowing adjustments that prevent future defects. Combined with defect marking, edge cracks and fold-overs can be highlighted with a colored dye so operators are alerted at the next stage.
How Paper Machine Edge Crack Detection Works
Paper mills routinely see cracks form along the edge of a moving web. Left undetected, they cause lengthy downtime in subsequent processes — a coater, a rewinder or a re-reeler. An edge crack or a fold-over will hang up on a slitter knife and cause a blow-up, and blow-ups mean time-consuming, costly clean-ups.
The Monarch system detects both separated and un-separated cracks along the web edge in real time and alerts operators downstream to take corrective action before the roll reaches the winder.
Detection Threshold
The system detects an edge crack where the opening is at least 1/16″ (1.6mm) and extends in from the edge by at least 3/8″ (9.5mm).
Advanced Sensor Technology for Web Edge Monitoring
Edge cracks are only half the problem. Fold-overs — where the web edge turns back on itself — are frequently missed and do the same damage at the slitter. The Monarch system detects both defect types in one product, on a moving web, without an operator watching the edge.
Edge Crack Detection + Defect Marking: Full-Loop Protection
This is where the two product lines work together. When the Edge Crack Detection System is combined with a Monarch Defect Marking System, front and back cracks are marked with different colors. The defect is not just counted, it is physically flagged on the web so the downstream operator sees it coming and can act rather than discovering it at the winder.
Use Crack Count Data to Eliminate Process Issues at Source
The system provides information to eliminate edge cracks at their source. Crack frequency data lets engineers diagnose the upstream process fault that is creating them, instead of managing the symptom at the winder. Operators can address cracks as they form rather than waiting for a winder backlog, which reduces machine and winder downtime and creates a safer working environment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an edge crack detection system?
An edge crack detection system monitors the edges of a moving paper web for cracks and fold-overs in real time. Monarch’s system tracks crack frequency to help engineers identify process faults before they cause costly web blow-ups.
Can edge crack detection work alongside defect marking?
Yes. Monarch’s edge crack detection integrates directly with our defect marking solutions. When a crack or fold-over is detected, a colored dye mark is placed on the web, and front and back cracks can be marked in different colors so downstream operators are immediately alerted.
How large does a crack have to be before it is detected?
The crack opening must be at least 1/16″ (1.6mm) and extend in from the web edge by at least 3/8″ (9.5mm).
Does the system detect fold-overs as well as cracks?
Yes. Both separated and un-separated cracks and fold-overs are detected. Fold-overs are the defect most often missed and they cause the same slitter blow-ups.
Do you support legacy Ryeco edge crack detection sensors?
Yes. Ryeco is now Monarch Paper Group and we support the installed base.
Talk to Monarch Paper Group
Download the Edge Crack Detection Product Sheet or contact us. Contact Monarch Paper Group or call 770-423-0934.
Related from Monarch Paper Group
Marking Solutions · Sheet Break Detection Systems · Service & Solutions