INFEED TRAINING
Introduction to the Infeed
Introduction
In this lesson, we will introduce you to the Infeed system, including its purpose, components, and importance in the production process. Understanding the Infeed system is crucial for ensuring efficient operations and maintaining safety standards.
Purpose of the Rotary Press
The Infeed system, including the vacuum de-stacker and paddle stations, plays a vital role in the production process. It minimizes manual handling by automatically docking out defects and cutting boards to specified lengths. This system ensures that timber is prepared correctly for further processing, enhancing both quality, safety and efficiency.
Importance of the Infeed
Efficiency: Automates the handling and preparation of timber, reducing the need for manual labor and increasing throughput.
Quality Control: Ensures defects are identified and removed early in the process, maintaining high standards for the final products.
Safety: Minimizes manual handling, reducing the risk of injuries and enhancing workplace safety.
Key Components of the Infeed
Vacuum De-Stacker:
The timber processing begins with the vacuum de-stacker, where either ‘Inners’ or ‘Outers’ packs are placed on the infeed rollers by the forklift. These packs are then moved onto the center rollers and forwarded to the vacuum de-stacker. The de-stacker carefully lifts one row of timber at a time and places it onto the chains, where the grading process begins. Operators use lumber crayon to mark any defects on the boards, which are then scanned by an integrated system. The scanner identifies the required docking, and the defective sections are automatically removed, falling into the waste bin.
Docking Saw:
The docking saw is essential for ensuring that timber pieces are cut to the precise lengths required for further processing. As the boards pass through the saw, it efficiently removes any defects that were previously marked during the grading process. This not only ensures that the timber meets the required specifications but also maintains the quality by eliminating imperfections, making the boards ready for the next stage in the production line.
Paddle Stations:
Once the timber pieces have been docked, they move forward to the paddle stations. Depending on their length, the docked pieces are directed into either the first or second turner. These stations then stand the timber pieces on their edge, arranging them into packets wide enough to be easily loaded onto the next phase of processing in the Finger Joiner.
Overview of Training Modules
In this training, you will cover the following modules:
- Safety, PPE, and Emergency Procedures: Learn about essential safety guidelines, personal protective equipment, and the correct procedures to follow in case of an emergency.
- Pre-Operational Checks: Understand the necessary checks to perform before starting the equipment to ensure everything is in proper working condition.
- Operating Instructions: Get detailed steps for operating the Infeed system, including the Stirling HMI, docking saw, and paddle stations, ensuring smooth and efficient operations.
- Size Changes: Master the process of adjusting the Infeed system for different timber sizes, including the correct procedures for changing settings on feed rollers, hold back arms, and conveyor belt guides to accommodate various dimensions.
- Grading Timber and Common Defects: Learn how to properly grade timber, identify common defects, and ensure that only high-quality timber proceeds through the system.
- Maintenance and Troubleshooting: Carry out routine maintenance tasks and learn troubleshooting techniques to resolve common issues quickly and efficiently.
- End of Shift Procedures: Follow proper procedures for cleaning up, securing the equipment, and transitioning smoothly between shifts.
- Training Requirements: Review detailed training prerequisites, agreements, and the assessment process to ensure you’re fully prepared for independent operation.
- Appendices and References: Access additional resources and reference materials to support your training and enhance your understanding.
By the end of this training, you will have a thorough understanding of the Infeed system, including how to safely and efficiently handle size changes, and be equipped with the skills needed to maintain high standards in your work. Let’s get started and make safety and efficiency our top priorities.