Gearmotors for Changing Environments

Bodine AC gearmotors ensure long-lasting operation, even in damp conditions

Box sealing/sealing machines are vital in devising standardized products as they carry open cardboard cases horizontally between two parallel conveyors before the tape seals them. An OEM case-packing equipment manufacturer had been using Bodine type 42R-FX AC parallel shaft gearmotors to power the conveyors of their case sealer designs for years. These motors operated well in the absence of moisture.

The Problem: How to Dress When It's Wet

And when the OEM launched their new case sealer model, appropriate for plants with water spray or washdown applications, they of course specified Bodine gearmotors once again. Yet in the fresh running conditions, the performance problems emerged. The fan cooled gearmotors, which were a proven solution in the past did not like wet elements as well, and they got jammed by water.

This resulted in an immediate requirement for a more rugged gearmotor solution, without sacrificing performance while meeting environmental requirements.

Bodine’s Engineering Solution

Bodine engineers suggested an enhanced solution with a fan-cooled geared motor replaced with a TE (totally enclosed) motor and the same gearbox through the application. This had the same performance advantages, but protected the motor from splashed water.

As the cooling fan was ditched, horsepower ratings would have to be altered. For a rule of thumb in engineering, if you remove the fan from a fan-cooled motor, its horsepower rating is reduced by half. To make up for it, Bodine substituted the old 1/6 HP fan-cooled motor with a 1/3 HP totally enclosed one that derated to 1/6 HP when they removed the fan.

The result was a watertight, permanent gearmotor solution that met the performance goal required by the application.

Benefits of Bodine’s Case Sealer Gearmotor

• Water-resistant performance for washdown or wet environments
• Totally enclosed design protects the motor from splashing liquids
• Optimized horsepower adjustment ensures consistent torque output
• Reliable AC parallel shaft gearmotor proven in packaging applications
• Custom engineering support from Bodine for application-specific challenges

Gearmotors Built for Demanding Packaging Environments

Bodine’s capability to tailor proven gearmotor designs for new environments shines through in this case. Now replaced by a fully enclosed motor design that is fan cooled, Bodine offered a gearmotor option that is built to last in wet packaging environments.

From compact case sealers and conveyor drive units to in-line versions, the Bodine name is synonymous with a wide range of applications that require reliable motion, under demanding requirements & conditions.