EuroWire May 2021

Technology News

New Reelex patents expand IP portfolio

Reelex Packaging Solutions, Inc, the creator and licensor of Reelex® twist- and tangle-free packaging, has added several new patents to its portfolio of licensed technologies. Among the new patents is a new winding algorithm that redefines how the Reelex figure-eight coil is wound. This allows the Reelex machine to determine coil diameter, product OD and length, and automatically adjust winding parameters to produce an optimum coil. The patent will allow the Reelex machine to have infinite adjustability over the formation of the figure-eight wind as the coil is produced, resulting in benefits in package fitment, coil size, data cable performance and wind precision. The new program is expected to debut later in 2021 and will likely be made available via field retrofit to existing Reelex machines. A new self-centring bearing patent describes a bearing design for mechanical components that must be repeatedly removed and replaced onto the end of a shaft. This new design is currently in use on Reelex’s outer endforms, which are plates that automatically remove from the mandrel shaft to allow removal of a finished coil. The bearing allows for repeated cycling of the endform without wear or requiring manual alignment. FLYMCA’s new rigid strander model has been developed and commissioned with a focus on overhead, underground and subsea cables for low, medium and high voltage cables. This type of machine is used in processes such as stranding, armouring and screening. The machine incorporates technical improvements that allow a higher conductor quality level to be obtained, as well as higher production capacity. Key targeted results include reduced wire contact with the machine body, decreasing friction and avoiding wire tension variations. Braking systems on the bobbins provide a constant tension from full to empty bobbin, and also between the different wires of each stranding cage. Minimum values have been reached allowing the use of smaller wire diameters.

The next-generation of Reelex payout tubes has also received a patent. Named Reelex Air™, the new payout tube design replaces the Reelex II tube design, and is claimed to offer reduced package size, less material, less cost, improved performance, improved shipping density andbackwards compatibility. Reelex licensees have access to new patents and trademarks at no additional charge, as the royalty system is intended to fund ongoing development and advancement of Reelex technologies for the benefit of all users. Reelex Packaging Solutions, Inc www.reelex.com

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The new Reelex Air payout tube design

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Technical improvements to rigid stranders

The optimised stranding cage structure allows an increase in maximum rotating speeds, and maximises production capacity. Improved automatic bobbin loading systems give higher efficiency. TheWi-Fi electronic control avoids brushes and corresponding possible failures. The operator can check the production status in real time/continuously, as well as historically, in order to easily repeat similar subsequent production. The range of working wires in copper and aluminium is also increased, allowing higher final conductor sections in a single pass, with up to 127 wires. FLYMCA Fluídos y Mecánicas Cantabria SL www.flymca.com

Copperjet - High speed copper coating on welding wire

Tel: +46 11 21 75 00 Fax: +46 11 12 63 12 Email: info@candorsweden.com CANDOR Sweden AB

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May 2021