Designed specifically for can makers, the UNIST Apex™ system provides precise and consistent lubricant delivery and application while offering advanced process control, lubrication tracking, and active monitoring.
Using an electronically controlled positive-displacement pump, the Apex™ delivers precise, repeatable volumes of lubricant. Its PLC-based controls simplify setup, troubleshooting, and system monitoring, both at the press and remotely through Ethernet connectivity.
The Apex™ takes coil stock lubrication for beverage can manufacturing to a higher level of precision and convenience.
The system builds on Unist's proven Uni-Roller® technology and uses an electronically controlled positive-displacement pump to deliver precise and repeatable volumes of lubricant to the coil.
Because the positive-displacement pump is not affected by changes in fluid viscosity, the Apex™ maintains consistent lubricant application despite variations in ambient temperature.
The positive-displacement pump provides precise and repeatable volumes of lubricant. Because its operation is not affected by changes in fluid viscosity, the Apex™ maintains consistent lubricant application despite variations in ambient temperature.
PLC-based controls simplify setup, troubleshooting, and monitoring of the Apex™ system. The system can be monitored directly at the press or remotely through Ethernet connectivity.
The Apex™ applies lubricant accurately and consistently to both sides of the coil stock. Fluid is delivered to the coil using Unist's patented, proven, internally fed Uni-Roller® system.
The Apex™ combines precise lubricant dispensing with active system monitoring. Its color touchscreen provides access to critical operating information and makes it easy to adjust the amount of lubricant applied to the coil. The system also tracks the total amount of lubricant dispensed and can be reset to monitor lubricant consumption over a selected period.
The Apex™ dispenses lubricant using a precisely controlled positive-displacement pump. Its fixed displacement allows the system to consistently deliver the desired fluid volume across a wide range of operating conditions.
Lubricant can be directed to up to 16 fluid outputs, providing the distribution capacity specified for the Apex™ system.
The Apex™ receives a pulsed input proportional to the speed of the material moving through the line. The system uses this signal to help ensure that the correct amount of lubricant continues to be applied as the press speeds up or slows down.
During operation, the Apex™ monitors critical parameters including reservoir level, output pressure, fluid flow, and input signals. This monitoring helps identify potential problems and simplifies troubleshooting.
The Apex™ displays critical runtime information in one central location. The home screen can be used to monitor system operation and assist with troubleshooting.
The Apex™ monitors critical runtime parameters and alerts the user to potential problems. When critical issues occur, the system can stop the press.
The Apex™ displays a history of the previous 20 alarms, providing useful information for troubleshooting and downtime diagnosis.
Manual control allows the user to perform regular maintenance and troubleshooting procedures directly through the Apex™ system.
The roller setup screen makes it easy to change the amount of lubricant applied to the coil stock. Fluid settings can also be adjusted individually for each roller of the connected Uni-Roller® lubricator, including the top and bottom fluid settings. Values can be entered in either mg/ft² or mg/m².
The Apex™ tracks the total amount of lubricant dispensed. The totalizer can be reset to monitor lubricant consumption over a selected period.
The Apex™ is designed specifically for beverage can manufacturing. The system accurately and consistently applies lubricant to both sides of the coil stock using Unist's patented, proven, internally fed Uni-Roller® technology.
| Specification | Apex |
|---|---|
| Interface | Allen Bradley 7" color touchscreen |
| Fluid output range | 10 to 60 mg/ft2 (161-645 mg/m2) typical |
| Fluid outputs | Up to 16 |
| Operating Environment | 32 to 122 °F (0 to 50 °C) 5 – 95% relative humidity, non-condensing |
| Fluid Capacity | 6 US gal (22.7 L) |
| Requirements | Apex |
|---|---|
| Fluid type(s) | Neat cupping lubricants for aluminum containers |
| Fluid supply options | Pressurized central fluid supply: 10-50 psi (0.7 0 3.4 bar) Day tank, drum, or tote: storage vessel placed next to unit to pump from Manual refill: Internal tank with filler cap |
| Air supply | Clean, dry, compressed air: 80-90 psi (5.5 - 6.2 bar). 25 SCFM (708 SLPM) minimum |
| Power Requirement | 120 VAC, 1A, 50/60 Hz, Single phase, TN supply system, OR 240 VAC, 0.5A, 50/60 Hz, Single phase, TN supply system, OR 24 VDC, 5A max |
| Control Input | Cycle Input: 10-30VDC PNP or Dry Contact (switch closure) Line Running: Dry contact switch from the press; Open circuit when running. Closed circuit when stopped |
| Alarm Output | One N/C alarm (output NC), one N/O alarm (output NO) Isolated, non-fused, single pole, double throw 2 amp maximum load |
The appropriate Apex™ configuration depends on the requirements of your beverage can production line, including lubricant application requirements, the number of fluid outputs, and the fluid supply method.
Contact Montfort to discuss your application, determine the appropriate Apex™ configuration, or request a quote.
