Vacuum Tension Rolls

Leverage our vast application knowledge and manufacturing experience for single-sided control of tension. These rolls are ideal for applications where a nip is not possible.

Typical applications for vacuum rolls include tension Isolation, pull rolls, transporting wet or coated webs, replacing nip or S-wrap rolls, stabilization, handling light webs at low tension, controlling tension in flotation dryers, web guiding, maintaining a good grip on the web during steering, metering applications, maintaining control during start-stop operations, and controlling tension during loop accumulator operations.

Pete Eggen, Vacuum Tension Roll engineer, provides the expertise behind our vacuum roll products. Pete has more than 20 years of experience and has earned an international reputation as the foremost authority on vacuum roller design and applicable processes.

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Vacuum Tension Rolls
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MECA Vacuum Roll Precision Roll Solutions

S wraps rely solely on friction to adjust tension levels on the web, but this configuration makes it difficult to isolate higher levels of tension. Vacuum tension rolls are a more effective choice as rolls for EV manufacturing because of their ability to isolate higher tension values at multiple points in the process without damaging delicate web substrates.

Vacuum tension rolls enhance control of the web while eliminating the possibility of scratching and other damage. They also help minimize dust in clean environments, particularly when it comes to the graphite coatings on anode and cathode layers of the battery. PRS engineers can calibrate mesh screens within a manufacturing window to better control the inevitable dust particles.

  • Single-sided contact with coated webs or other sensitive web materials.
  • Isolates low (to near-zero) web tension from adjacent higher-tension zones.
  • Enhanced ability to process lightweight or delicate web materials.
  • Achieve tension control with smaller wrap angles.
  • Provide tension control at high speeds by removal of air boundary layer.
  • Safer and more accessible line layout.
  • Constant web tension control.
  • Non-slip gripping of the web without risk of embossing or other damage.

Design Options

Engineered for superior efficiency, PRS vacuum tension rollers are available in 12 standard sizes ranging from 175 mm (6.890 inch) to 450 mm (17.717 inch) in a variety of standard finish options. Custom-engineered sizes and finish options are also available.

Screen options allow for protection of the web material. Fine mesh is less likely to damage delicate web materials. Seamless screens available for the most delicate operations. Larger openings allow for pass-through of environmental contaminents such as dust. Easier to clean.

Surface Treatments

Choose from any of our five standard roll surface options for a range of performance characteristics that fit virtually any web application:

Electroless Nickel Plated Corrosion-resistant Smooth finish Rubber Covered

Compliant surface Highest traction/grip Plasma Coated

Enhanced traction/grip High release coating Fine Mesh Screen

Non-marking Best for thin or sensitive webs Mechanically Engraved

Textured with micro-grooves Added traction/grip Enhanced air exhaustion

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