How to Adjust Production Speed for Different Gypsum Board Thicknesses

How to Adjust Production Speed for Different Gypsum Board Thicknesses?

Adjusting production speed for different gypsum board thicknesses is a critical task in ensuring product quality and operational efficiency. At Hengshui Decheng Machinery & Equipment Co.,Ltd, production lines are designed with flexibility in mind, allowing for seamless speed adjustments without compromising process control.

Understanding the Relationship
The speed of the line directly affects the hydration, setting, and drying times of the board. Thicker boards require more gypsum slurry and a longer setting and drying period. Therefore, the production line must run slower to ensure proper curing and moisture removal.

Forming Section Adjustments
In the forming station, the gap between the forming table and the roller determines the board thickness. When a thicker board is being produced, the gap is widened and the line speed is reduced to allow for more slurry deposition. Conversely, for thinner boards, the line can move faster.

Setting Belt Length and Speed
The setting belt allows the gypsum to begin its chemical reaction and partially harden before cutting. For thicker boards, the belt speed must be slower or the length increased to allow for adequate setting time.

Cutting Synchronization
Cutting units are synchronized with the line speed. When the line slows for thicker boards, the cutting system must adjust its timing to ensure accurate dimensions. Advanced control systems manage these changes automatically.

Drying Time Consideration
Thicker boards contain more moisture and take longer to dry. Slower conveyor speeds are necessary in the drying kiln to prevent defects like core collapse or surface blisters. The drying schedule is also adjusted with longer residence time in each temperature zone.

Automation Support
Automated production lines simplify speed adjustments through recipe-based settings. Operators select the desired board type, and the control system adjusts slurry feed rate, line speed, cutting intervals, and drying profiles accordingly.

Trial Runs and Calibration
For new board specifications, it’s advisable to perform test runs to calibrate all system parameters. This ensures that product quality remains consistent while optimizing throughput.

Speed control is not just a matter of conveyor movement—it requires holistic coordination across the forming, setting, cutting, and drying stages. With the right adjustments, the production line can maintain flexibility and responsiveness to market demands for various board types.