Morbark recently introduced a new patent-pending Vtection system option for their 3000, 3400, and 6400 series Wood Hog Horizontal Grinders. The Vtection system monitors rotor vibration to reduce damage from contact with un-shreddable objects or other causes of damaging vibration like an out-of-balance rotor, broken insert, defective bearing, or extremely hardwood. Source: Timberbiz
The system features two operating modes; grinding protection mode and service and maintenance mode. When coupled with Morbark’s Break-Away Torque Limiter, these devices provide customers with the best solution in the industry for hammermill protection.
To use the VTECTION system, the operator sets an acceptable operating vibration level through the electronic controller. Since different feedstocks produce different vibration levels, the operator can quickly fine-tune the trip point to match the grinding application. Adjusting the trip point based on the feedstock can help avoid unnecessary stopping of the infeed from normal operating vibration.
If an un-shreddable object enters the grinding chamber while in grinding protection mode, the VTECTION system will sense the spike in vibration or trip point and instantly stop and reverse the infeed conveyor. By reversing the infeed conveyor, the VTECTION system lowers the rotor’s chance of repeatedly striking the foreign object.
Once the VTECTION system is triggered, Morbark’s Integrated Control System (MICS) initiates several actions to remove the tramp material out of the rotor area. The sequence of these actions includes: reversing and stopping the infeed, bringing the engine speed to idle, disengaging the clutch, and a warning message is displayed on the MICS screen. At this time, the operator can inspect the grinder and remove the object that caused the trip point before resuming operation.
During the service and maintenance protection mode, a user can hook up to the system software and monitor vibration levels during different engine loads (Low idle, High Idle, Clutch engage, No Clutch, etc.). Vibration specifications will vary based on the machine model. The system can be programmed to monitor and extract data. These signals can then be visually observed, and various readings can be recorded to verify that the machine is within acceptable vibration levels. Multiple programs can be used to evaluate the system data.
This system will minimize the potential for damage when non-grindable material enters the mill. The system cannot guarantee a machine is without a defect. Please use caution after the system trips and service work begins, as other components may have experienced damage.
Ship-out kits are available for in-field installations on pre-existing 3000X, 3400X, and 6400X horizontal grinders.
