A301 Automatic Core Cutter

Entry Level automated core cutting

The A301 is the ideal model for any company’s entry into automated core cutting. This rugged, yet affordable, fixed-knife core cutter automatically advances and cuts the core to precise, pre-set lengths while requiring minimal operator attendance. It’s the perfect tool for producing quality, low- to high-volume, batch-cut cores in-house quickly and cost-efficiently.

An operator simply enters the desired quantity of cuts on the PLC control panel and loads the core. The A301 automatically cuts the target length, advancing the core each time until the pre-set quantity is cut or the entire core is consumed. An air-assisted knife produces clean, burnished cuts every time.

The repetitive precision of the A301 minimizes unwanted scrap due to operator error. Automated cutting frees operators to perform other tasks, or to prepare loading the next core. Cutting a typical 8-foot core into 12-inch lengths takes about 40 seconds

Like all Appleton core cutters, the A301 is engineered with proven features that ensure cut quality, ease of operation, and operator safety:

• Simply Automated – Cores are automatically advanced, automatically cut. Operator needs only set the target length.
• Intelligent Control – The PLC control panel features push-button simplicity with an LCD screen that displays prompts and operator input. The PLC captures and displays run data and system status.
• Simplified Adjustment – Different core diameters require a simple change of the core mandrel. When core diameters change more frequently, Appleton’s IDC (Instant Diameter Change) option will speed changeovers and improve productivity.
• Precise Cuts – The air-assisted fixed knife cuts to within +/-0.010 inch of the targeted length.
• Clean Cuts – The fixed knife of the A301 makes clean, burnished cuts while generating virtually no dust or noise – making for a superior cut, a quiet machine and a better work environment.
• Expandable – With its PLC intelligence, the A301 can be easily expanded with Automated Parent and Cut Core Handling, Auto-Indexing Knife and other options that free your operators for other tasks.
• Energy Saving – Every Appleton core cutter features an auto-shutoff that turns off the cutter when left unattended, eliminating unnecessary energy costs while minimizing wear on moving cutter parts. As always, workers are safer when unattended machinery is not running.
• Installation and Training – Professional installation and training services are readily available from skilled technicians with years of core cutter experience.

60 years of Superior Support

The A301 also comes with an outstanding promise of support. If you should need technical assistance, service or replacement parts, Appleton will be there for you. Appleton still provides parts and service for core cutters built over 50 years ago – you can be assured our tradition of superior support will bring long-term value to your Appleton core cutter investment.

Specs

Parent core length range

• 5' to 14' (Available in 1 foot increments)
• Note that core diameters under 3" limit machine length.

Core diameter range

• 3" I.D. to 13" O.D.
• With options range can be expanded down to 1" I.D. or up to 26" O.D.

Wall thickness

• 1/4" to 5/8" (includes .660" cores)
• With options the range can be expanded down to 1/8" and up to 3/4". For heavier walls contact Appleton Mfg. Division

Cut length range

• Minimum cut determined by core integrity (typically equal to wall thickness)

Maximum length

• Reference standard cut length in chart under Dimensions tab
• Note optional extended target for longer cut lengths

Cut length tolerance

• +/-0.010"

Utilities

• 3 phase electrical power. 15-25 amp circuit required depending on options.
• 80 psi plant air. 1 cfm @ 50 cuts/minute. (Cut rate operator and core dependent)

Options

Stroke Limit

• For Core wall thickness below 1/4" (prevents expansion of thin wall core I.D.)

Extended target

• Permits cut core lengths up to extended cut length column in chart(see Dimensions tab)

Large Core Diameter

• Extends diameter capacity up to 26" O.D.

Additional Support Rollers

• Permits core diameters down to 1" I.D.

Digital Scale

• LED read-out of target position (cut length) for consistent settings between operators

Auto Indexing Knife

• Rotates the knife 9 degrees automatically at operator preset number of cuts. Provides 40 knife positions for uniform cut quality and extended blade life.

Knives

• A variety of options that match the cut to your materials

Electrical system controls

• Motors starters, control voltage transformers, and power disconnects are included. Customer specified components or locations optional.

Accessories

Patented IDC (Instant Diameter Change) Mandrel System

• Appleton's patented IDC mandrel system provides a multiple core diameter capability with a single mandrel and interchangeable cartridges. See the IDC web page for more details

Automated Core Handling

• Systems to load and unload your parent and cut cores. See our Autoloader3 web page for more details...

Dimensions