Paper Mill Threader Installation

To begin this project, our paper mill client works with our project manager to determine resources for this threader project’s scope of work. The purpose of this threader is to make sure that the paper mill can automatically and safely thread the paper on each run.

Previously, the facility had to involve more manual labor to thread the paper. JDI’s mechanical and electrical contracting team work together to install the new automatic threading system.

This threader is used during a paper break, which occurs during the mill’s startup, and sends the paper from the dryer into the calender. Ultimately, it gives the facility a better ability to keep operators safe, deliver their product accurately, and reduce waste.

To see more details about JDI’s performance, keep reading below.

Firstly, JDI’s mechanical team begins the initial phase with placing the threader system. We work with MANTECH’s representative engineers and align the system with the drier and calendar.

Our mechanical contractors then tie into the existing air supply on the back wall and run a 2″ header. We also cut into the concrete and create a trench to install utility lines such as network cables, airlines, and power cables.

They connect the air lines to the existing air valves on the machine, and install the new 2″ drops on both the calendar and dryer. JDI also installs ball valves at the end of piping and create a connection to the newly installed pneumatic panels.

Our industrial electricians’ main goal is to install a MANTECH PLC next to our client’s switchgear. We install 30′ of 3/4″ IMC from the switchgear to the PLC, along with two VFD’s and one operator station on the machine.

Next, we install 170′ of 1″ IMC from PLC to VFD, 470′ of 3/4″ IMC from PLC to VFDs, and pull 150′ of 8 gauge cabling to PLC to power the units on.

Subsequently, the electricians then connect 2000′ of 12 gauge cabling to the VFD’s and 1000′ of CAT6 between the PLC and VFD’s, air manifolds, and operator
station.

Finally, we make all terminations as necessary and verify proper voltage to ensure the proper power to the paper mill threading system.

• Tie into existing air supply on back wall.
• Run 2″ header where possible.
• JDI to supply 2″ header on both the calendar and dryer.
• Provide ball valves at end of piping and connection to pneumatic panels.
• Install MANTECH PLC next to Switchgear
• Install up to (30′) 3/4″ IMC from Switchgear to PLC
• Install (2) VFD’s and (1) Operator station on machine
• Install up to (170′) 1″ IMC from PLC to VFD
• Install up to (470′) 3/4″ IMC from PLC to VFD’s
• Pull up to (150′) #8 to PLC to power
• Pull up to (2000′) #12 to VFD’s to power
• Pull up to (1000′) CAT6 between PLC and VFD’s, Air Manifolds, and Operator Station
• Make all terminations as necessary
• Check and verify proper voltage to ensure power

The client praises JDI for our ability to deliver a much needed system integration during a small window shutdown.

Now, the facility can deliver their products without much effort, and still have people making the quality decisions they rely on.

Finally, the JDI team members who drive this project’s success have completed over 100 contracts within the facility.