WHY IS THE CORRECT TENSIONING OF END TENSIONED SCREEN MESH SO IMPORTANT?

Ensuring your machine has the correct end tension will ensure long mesh and machine life. Incorrect tension will cause premature mesh failure and possible screen cracks. End tensioned meshes is mostly found on the screen box bottom decks. With end tension mesh, tension bars are utilized.

Tensioned bars are shaped like a banana, and the curve of the bar must fit into the clamping plate of the mesh. The apex of the curve must face towards the centre of the clamping plate. The bar ends are pitched backwards. The mesh is tensioned using the tensioners either side of the tension bars. By adjusting the end tensioners, the tension bar is straightened to give the correct tension to the mesh.

Tensioning Tips:

• Tension each side equally
• Tension until the mesh side tension ‘feel’ the same side as the centre. Use a rubber mallet and bounce the sides vs centre to determine the tension
• Any new mesh will stretch to some degree in the first few hours of operation, particularly small apertures. Re-tension every few hours over the first day of two
• Mesh condition and tension should be checked at the start of every shift
• Replace nose rubber with every third mesh change

Causes and Tips of mesh failures:

• Mesh fails prematurely because of loose tension bars
• Pay attention to abnormal noises, like high pitch sounds. This is a sign that the mesh is loose and moving independently to the screen. Tighten the tension bar
• Check nose rubber condition. Nose rubber has a shelf life, if you find large grooves caused by the mesh, replace them