INTRODUCTION

The ATFXU machines, designed to perform the sealing processes, play a pivotal role in the production line. However, like any complex system, these machines can encounter issues that disrupt the flow of production. One common challenge faced is the occurrence of boxes becoming jammed within the taping area, a situation that can lead to delays and inefficiencies.

POSSIBLE CAUSES

When encountering issues with boxes becoming jammed in the taping area, it is essential to consider the setup within the sealing section as a potential source of the problem. Several factors, including incorrect height adjustment, improper positioning of the Tape Head, or inaccuracies in width adjustment, may contribute to this issue.

• Incorrect height adjustment
• Incorrect width adjustment
• Incorrectly loaded tape heads
• Top compression rollers are too tight.
• Belts are worn or slipping.
• Excessive Tape residue buildup
• Tape head Issues
  • Incorrectly threaded.
  • Damaged or broken parts 
    • springs
    • Knife guard
    • knife bridge/harness
    • knife positioning
    • Interference caused by loose/missing hardware.

TROUBLESHOOTING STEPS

To address and resolve this problem effectively, follow these systematic troubleshooting steps:

1. Adjust the Width: Carefully center the box in the machine. Adjust the side guide width by positioning the side guides to within 3-5mm of the width of the carton but not touching the sides.
   * One method is to fully snug the guide rails up to box (to center it), then back the handle off about 1 - 2 full turns. 
   * Pull the spring-loaded, lid-support plate away from the side of the box to verify that the sides of the bottom box do not touch the side guide rails on both sides, and that they are equidistance from the box.
   * Bulky, overfilled produce will cause the sides of the box to bulge and get stuck if the side guides are too narrow. 
   

2. Verify Lid-Support Plate:  Verify that the lid-support plate is positioned beneath the lid. The movable, lid-support plates should just barely touch the sides of the bottom box while the lid rests on top of the plates. It is recommended to set the four springs to the least tension position, initially. With time and use, the springs will gradually lose tension and the bolt will need to be adjusted. 
    
3. Adjust the Sealing Height: With the lid resting on lid-support rails, lower the sealing area top mast by turning the handle counterclockwise. Align the top belt drive with the top of the carton. The top flaps should lie flat with the drive belts gently touching the top. 

   
   

   * Too high will cause a poor seal with a loose tab, the belts won't make contact with the box, reducing pulling force.
   * Too low will crush the bottom edges of the lid or force the lid to drop below the support plates resulting in a No-Cut tape condition.
4. Adjust the Sealing Compression Rollers: 
   • Loosen the knob above the rollers until it makes contact with the side of the carton, then tighten.
   • If a carton gets stuck at this point, move the rollers further apart. 
   • The flaps should meet in the middle with little or no gap.
   • The rollers should leave a very light impression, if any at all. 
   • Remember to adjust both sides.

5. Verify the Top and Bottom Tape Head Mounting: Ensure that both the top and bottom Tape Heads are correctly loaded into their respective cavities. Proper alignment is critical for the smooth operation of the taping machine and prevents jams.

6. Inspect belts for wear and tear.
7. Verify proper belt tension.
8. Clean any adhesive residue from friction/sliding surfaces.
9. Inspect tape head for proper operation. Replace any damaged or missing components and carefully rethread the tape head.

CONCLUSION

When you notice that the boxes becoming jammed in the taping area of your machine, a systematic approach to troubleshooting is essential. By carefully elevating the top Tape Head to clear obstructions, verifying proper positioning of both top and bottom Tape Heads, and ensuring that the box lid travels smoothly above the side metal guide plates, you can overcome this issue and maintain the efficiency of your tape sealing machine. These steps are essential in minimizing downtime and ensuring that your production process remains on track.