Core Handling Technology: The “Expanding Core” Gripper

Unlike standard grippers that squeeze the outside (risking damage to the film layers), a film roll manipulator typically uses an Internal Expanding Mandrel:

1. Insertion: The probe enters the hollow core (usually 3″ or 6″).

2. Expansion: Pneumatic “teeth” or high-friction sleeves expand outward, locking onto the core from the inside.

3. Lift & Tilt: The manipulator lifts the roll and provides a 90° powered tilt (Upending) so it can be loaded onto a horizontal shaft.

Technical Specifications for Film Handling

Why a Dedicated Lifter is Essential for Film Rolls?

1. Protection of the “Telescope” Effect

If you lift a heavy film roll by the outer edges, the inner layers can “telescope” out, ruining the entire roll. An internal core gripper ensures the structural integrity of the winding is never compromised.

2. Precise Alignment with Mandrels

Loading a 100kg roll onto a machine spindle by hand is nearly impossible to do perfectly. A manipulator allows the operator to “float” the roll, aligning it to the millimeter without straining their back or bumping the machine.

3. Cleanroom Compatibility

Many film rolls are used in food packaging or pharmaceutical labs. Our manipulators can be built with FDA-approved materials and specialized lubricants to meet ISO cleanroom standards.