Tech tip for the week of October 8, 2018

Air shafts are core support mechanisms that slide inside of a core of a roll or material. They serve as a coupling mechanism between your material roll core and a power transmission device like a brake on an unwind or a drive on a rewind.

Leaf type air shafts, like CAC's COR-LOK series air shafts, utilize an expanding element under leaves mounted around the circumference of the air shaft which move outward to engage a roll core. When air pressure is applied to the leaf type air shaft the expanding element expands under the air shaft leaves which actuates the leaves.

Things to consider when utilizing leaf type air shaft technology:

1. Many leaf type air shafts are designed to be light weight. Take advantage of this feature to improve your ergonomics.
2. Leaf type air shafts deliver lots of torque to your core so they are well suited for low to high tension applications.
3. Zero core damage will occur with the use of this type of air shaft. So, if you re-use your cores, these air shafts are the perfect choice.
4. Inflate these this type of air shaft according to the manufacturers recommended air pressure to take advantage of their high torque capability. If the core slips on the leaves (due to improper inflation) leaf damage, due to unnecessary wear will occur.
5. Leaf type air shafts, typically, do not have as much beam strength as their button type or lug type air shaft counterparts. Keep in mind when supporting heavy rolls of material.

Leaf type air shafts are an excellent choice for holding unwind and rewind rolls. When properly applied they will provide years of light weight, reliable service.

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