Trim Removal
Continuous separation of the irregular and low-density margins of a paper web is a standard procedure executed during the final winding stages of paper production. In high-speed slitter-winders, reel edge stripping ensures that the poorly consolidated outer boundaries of the freshly manufactured paper roll are discarded before the product is sent to converters. This action establishes a uniform, high-density edge across the entire width of the finished roll.
Operational Control
The process utilizes circular rotary blades or high-pressure water jets to slice the running web a few centimeters from each edge. This strip, often called the trim, is immediately sucked into a pneumatic waste system that chops and routes the recovered fiber back to the pulper for recycling. Adjusting the tension and position of these cutting assemblies prevents reel edge stripping from causing web breaks on the winder.
If the trim strip is not pulled away cleanly, it can become wrapped around the winding drums, causing severe mechanical damage to the main roll.
Winding Integrity
Ensuring clean edge separation prevents the formation of interweaving paper layers at the roll ends. Paper rolls with poorly executed reel edge stripping often suffer from loose, frayed margins that tear easily during unwinding on a printing press. Smooth, dust-free edges are essential to maintain consistent web tension as the paper is fed into the feeder.
