Everyone asks the wrong question first; “What spreader is best for me?”
Instead, the first question should be “Do I need a spreader?” Obviously, the answer depends on the root cause. If you can eliminate the root cause, such as roller misalignment or web bagginess, that is usually far more effective and thus preferable. I have written and taught frequently on this subject so you are well equipped here if you do your homework.
The second question is no less important, “Where should the spreader be located?” The answer is quite straightforward: at the precise roller or span location where the wrinkle is generated (often the first appearance as one walks down the line). One roller upstream is too soon; there is no problem and thus no remedy there. One roller downstream is too late; the wrinkle has already been formed. It is 100 times easier to prevent a wrinkle from starting than it is to remove one once started. Thus, as the old adage goes: location, location, location is the most important parameter of business success. All you have to do here is pay close visual attention to the web run or listen closely to what a good operator tells you to identify these very few wrinkle initiating locations in your line.
Only then do we ask the last question, “What is the best spreader for our webs at that location?” The reasons are obvious. You can’t put a spreader in, as much as you might like, if there is no room. You also can’t, for example, use a spreader that requires traction (as most do) in locations where traction is too small such as in a slippery environment or on a lightly wrapped roller. Spreader types and application considerations are well documented in my writings and teachings.
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