Automatic steel Coil turnstile in Coil packaging line

1. Introduction

Coil turnstiles are specialized machinery designed to facilitate the handling, rotation, and storage of coiled materials. They are primarily used in industries that process materials such as copper coils, metal strips, and slit coils. By automating the process of coil rotation and storage, turnstiles enhance operational efficiency, improve safety, and reduce manual labor. They can seamlessly connect with other coil handling equipment, such as single coil separating devices and specialized coil picking systems, making them an integral part of an automated coil processing line.

2. What is a Coil Turnstile?

A coil turnstile is a mechanical device used for the organized storage and handling of coils. It consists of rotating arms or beams that hold and rotate the coils for storage or further processing. The turnstile’s design allows for easy integration with other handling equipment, like coil down-enders and C-hooks. Its hollow structure is specifically designed to accommodate C-hooks and coil down-enders, ensuring easy coil loading and unloading. The arc-shaped supporting surface provides extra protection for the coil's inner diameter (ID), preventing damage during handling. Operated by a motorized control system and supported by a PLC (Programmable Logic Controller), the coil turnstile can precisely position and rotate coils, enhancing the overall efficiency of the coil handling process.

3. Importance of Coil Turnstile in Industrial Applications

The coil turnstile plays a vital role in industries where the handling and storage of heavy coils are routine. By automating these tasks, the turnstile significantly increases efficiency in production lines, reducing the need for manual intervention. This not only speeds up operations but also ensures consistency in how coils are managed. From a safety perspective, using a turnstile reduces the risk of workplace accidents by minimizing the need for direct human contact with heavy coils. Additionally, the turnstile aids in space optimization, allowing coils to be stored in a more organized and accessible manner, which is particularly beneficial in facilities with limited storage space.

4. Key Features of Coil Turnstile

The coil turnstile boasts several key features that make it a valuable asset in coil handling and storage operations:

• Hollow Structure Design: The turnstile's hollow structure is specifically designed to work seamlessly with C-hooks and coil down-enders. This design allows for easy integration with coil picking systems and ensures smooth loading and unloading of coils.

• Arc-Shaped Supporting Surface: This feature protects the coil’s inner diameter (ID) by providing a curved support surface, minimizing the risk of deformation or damage during handling and storage.

• Upper Transmission Mode: The turnstile uses an upper transmission system, including a supportive gear and motor, which makes maintenance easier and more accessible. This design ensures stable and reliable operation.

• Signal and Mechanical Positioning: The turnstile employs a combination of signal positioning and mechanical positioning to ensure precise movement and accurate coil placement. This advanced positioning mechanism guarantees safe and efficient operation.

• Stable and Reliable Structure: Built with a robust framework, the turnstile is designed for stable operation and can handle heavy loads with ease, providing a safe solution for managing large and heavy coils.

5. Applications of Coil Turnstile

• Coil Handling in Production Lines: Coil turnstiles facilitate the smooth transfer of coils between different processing stages. For example, they can be connected with a single coil separating device to handle individual coils efficiently. This ensures that coils are positioned correctly for subsequent processes like slitting or wrapping.

• Coil Storage: In storage areas, the turnstile allows for the organized stacking and storage of coils. By rotating and placing coils systematically, it maximizes storage space and keeps coils easily accessible.

• Coil Loading and Unloading: Turnstiles can be integrated with coil picking systems to streamline the loading and unloading process. This automation minimizes manual handling and reduces the risk of damage to the coils.

6. Benefits of Using a Coil Turnstile

• Enhanced Safety: By automating the rotation and handling of heavy coils, turnstiles reduce the need for manual labor, thereby decreasing the risk of workplace injuries.

• Increased Productivity: Turnstiles streamline the coil handling process, reducing the time required for coil rotation and positioning, which in turn accelerates production.

• Improved Storage Management: The ability to rotate and position coils precisely enables more efficient use of storage space, ensuring coils are stored securely and in an organized manner.

• Reduced Damage: The arc-shaped supporting surface and precise positioning mechanisms prevent coil deformation and damage, preserving the integrity of the material.

7. Factors to Consider When Choosing a Coil Turnstile

• Capacity Requirements: Assess the maximum coil weight and dimensions your facility needs to handle. Coil turnstiles are available with a maximum loading capacity ranging from 1-30T per single beam and a total loading capacity of 4-120T.

• Operational Speed: The turnstile's speed, typically about 1-2 circles/min, should align with the processing speed of your production line to ensure a smooth workflow.

• Integration Capabilities: Ensure that the turnstile can be integrated with existing systems such as coil down-enders, conveyors, and storage racks, controlled via PLC for seamless operation.

• Space Constraints: Consider the dimensions of the turnstile and the available space in your facility to ensure it can be installed and operated without hindrance.

8. Installation and Maintenance

• Installation Requirements: Proper installation of a coil turnstile requires a stable foundation to support the maximum loading capacity. The power supply, typically 380V, 50Hz, must be adequate to run the turnstile’s motorized system, especially when handling heavy coils.

• Maintenance: Routine maintenance is essential to ensure long-term performance and safety. The upper transmission mode with supportive gear and motor design facilitates easy maintenance. Regular inspections of the motor, gears, and positioning systems help in identifying wear and tear early.

• Operator Training: Training operators on the proper use of the turnstile is crucial. This includes understanding the control system (PLC) and safety procedures to ensure efficient and safe handling of coils.

Main Technical Features

• Dimensions: Customizable based on the maximum coil weight and width.
• Effective Length: Designed to support the mother coil width.
• Control System: PLC-controlled to manage coil storage and pick-up operations.
• Loading Capacity: Maximum loading per single beam ranges from 1-30T, with a total loading capacity of 4-120T.
• Rotation Speed: Approximately 1-2 circles/min.
• Motor Power: Adjusted according to the maximum loading requirements.
• Power Supply: Standard 380V, 50Hz.