Pathfinder Air Turn System

A typical Pathfinder layout with two 80 degree turns followed by the web guide turn and the dryer entry stabilizer bar.

The Pathfinder uses two 80 or two 90 degree air turns to elevate the web above the print units, followed by a fast-response center pivoting shallow wrap turn. This center pivoting steering turn precisely controls the position of the web to eliminate web movement before, during and after start-up, splices and blanket washes. A stationary shallow wrap turn steadies the web just prior to entering the dryer.

A key component of the Pathfinder is ASI’s patented ultra-sonic web measurement and clearance control. Mounted on the air turn itself, the ultrasound detector precisely measures the distance between the web and the face of the air turn.

The side-to-side position of the web is constantly monitored by the photosensitive measurement “eye” that is positioned after the last air bar and before the dryer.

Features and Advantages

• Web weights from 15 to 200 lbs./3300 ft².
• Compact 80 degree air turns require less space between print units.
• Center-pivot steering turn eliminates web weave during start-up, slices and blanket washes.
• Ultra-sonic web clearance measurement controls web clearances to within 0.03 inches for solid web stability.
• Fast-action PLC-based steering and clearance controls.
• Web positioning is precisely controlled to provide proper exit location going into the dryer.
• Stainless steel construction.
• Three-year warranty on ASI manufactured parts.