Operation & Service Manual 65-06-11 Effective May 17, 2007

Replaces 65-06-10, March 2, 2007

BEL 252 V.02

Fully Automatic Top and Bottom Uniform Case Tape Sealer

Wexxar Packaging Inc.

Phone (604) 270-0811 • Fax (604) 270-7897
E-mail: sales@wexxar.com

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SAFETY CAUTION
WHEN THE MACHINE IS FIRST SWITCHED ON, THE CASE TOP FLAP FOLDING
SNAP FOLDERS WILL CYCLE ONCE AUTOMATICALLY. KEEP HANDS CLEAR
OF THE MACHINE.

Make sure machine is disconnected from power sources, air and electric, before
undertaking any maintenance or service procedures.

Qualified personnel only must operate the machine.

DEKKA
2
5
2

Standard Specifications:

Length Width Height

Case Size Range Minimum 8” / 203mm 6” / 153mm 4.5” / 114mm
Maximum 22” / 559mm 15” / 381mm 16” / 406mm

Machine Dimensions 58” / 1473mm 33” / 838mm 53.3" / 1353mm

In/Outfeed Height Frame 22” / 559mm

With adjustable leg extensions Minimum 23.5” / 597mm
[foot pad]
Maximum 32” / 813mm

Speed Up to 25 cases / min.

Shipping Weight Approx. 650 Lbs.

/ 295 kg.
For further detail, see Layout Drawing 75-058

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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Installing The BEL 252 ________________________________________________________5
LEVELING THE MACHINE _____________________________________________________5
POWER CONNECTIONS _______________________________________________________5
ELECTRIC ________________________________________________________________5
COMPRESSED AIR _________________________________________________________5
Machine Adjustments _________________________________________________________6
1. Case Height Adjustment __________________________________________________7
2. Snap Folder width adjustment _____________________________________________8
3. Conveyor case width adjustment ___________________________________________8
4. Center (Top) Ski Adjustment ______________________________________________9
5. Snap Folder Manual / Automatic Modes ____________________________________10
Operating the Machine _______________________________________________________11
Machine Sequence of Operations ____________________________________________11
Compressed Air___________________________________________________________11
Electrical Switching _______________________________________________________11
Feeding Cases ____________________________________________________________11
Automatic Stop Gate (Option)_______________________________________________11
Service and Maintenance Procedures____________________________________________12
Uni-Drive Side Belt Drive System ____________________________________________12
Chain Drive_____________________________________________________________13
Gear Reducer ___________________________________________________________13
Side Drive Belts _________________________________________________________13
Belt Replacement ________________________________________________________13
Snap Folder Adjustments And Servicing ______________________________________14
Manual / Automatic Override Control.________________________________________14
Arch Cross Member Vertical Slide Adjustment ________________________________15
Procedure to Adjust Vertical Slider Bearing Clearance ___________________________17
Preventative Maintenance Guide BEL 250/ 252 ________________________________18
For detailed Technical Reference Information, Please see publication 66-06 _________18

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Trouble Shooting Guide ______________________________________________________19

Section 1 - Corrugated Case Quality & Specifications ___________________________19
Section 2 - Case Drive Belt System ___________________________________________20
Section 3 - Top Flap Folding ________________________________________________21
Section 4 - General Taping Conditions ________________________________________24
Section 5 - Case Infeed and Indexing _________________________________________26
Optional Equipment _______________________________________________________27

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Installing the BEL 252

Remove the through bolts that secure the machine to the base. Use wood dunnage blocks under the frame
when using a forklift to lift the machine off its shipping base and to position it.

Note: If the machine will be moved frequently, optional casters are available.

Leveling the Machine

The machine should be level to avoid frame stress and ensure optimum performance. An adjustable height
footpad kit is included as standard equipment and can be used to level the machine on an uneven floor.
The machine should be anchored to adjoining equipment or the floor to prevent any movement of the
machine by reactive forces that may occur as sealed cases are being driven through the machine outfeed.

Power Connections
Electric
The standard BEL 252 requires 120 VAC / 8A. single-phase electrical supply. The electrics are to
NEMA 12 specifications and a 1/2 horsepower TEFC motor powers the conveyor drive. A minimum
AWG 14 gauge power extension cord with standard three pin connection must be used to connect the
machine to the power source.
A dedicated electrical circuit is recommended for this machine. If any electrical connections are needed
to install the machine an electrician qualified in your jurisdiction should provide them.

Compressed Air
The BEL 252 requires an air supply that must be clean and dry, not less than 65 P.S.I. to a maximum of
120 P.S.I. with an optimal pressure of 80 P.S.I. The volume of air required for the BEL 252 is rated at
0.1 C.F./cycle at 80 P.S.I. (6 Bar). As well, the incoming air supply line must be of sufficient diameter to
provide an adequate amount of air without pressure drops when the machine is cycling, a 1/2” air line size
is recommended.
One of the most common causes of inconsistent machine performance is inadequate air supply therefore
the foregoing requirements must be carefully observed to assure satisfactory operation.
The BEL 252 is equipped with a manual compressed air on-off/dump valve, unless otherwise specified,
and a filter/regulator/lubricator, which should be checked daily to ensure the lubricator reservoir is filled,
air pressure regulated to the proper setting, and any water drained from the filter.

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Machine Adjustments
Safety: Disconnect machine electrics and compressed air before making any machine
adjustments.

CASE HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT

DIMENSION ‘E’

On/Off Switch Top Tape Head

Snap Folder WIDTH

ADJUSTMENT
DIMENSION ‘D’ UNI-Drive side belt
Conveyor
Snap Folders
[TOP FLAP
FOLDERS]

CONVEYOR CASE Compressed air supply [LH rear

WIDTH ADJUSTMENT corner]
DIMENSION ‘D’
Bottom Tape Head

There are three main adjustments required in setting up the BEL 252 to run a particular case size:
1. Case height ‘E’ - made with top hand wheel to move the machine head assembly up and down to the
height of the box.
2. Snap Folder case width adjustment ‘D’- made by loosening the locking handles above each folder
unit and pulling or pushing a folder from the side of the machine. A self-centering mechanism moves
both folders together.
3. Conveyor case width adjustment ‘D’- made with side hand crank to move side belt conveyors in
and out to fit the width of the box.

D D 120-093

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In practice it is best to first open up all three adjustments to fully clear the height and width of box. To
start, turn the hand wheel located at the top of the machine frame arch raising the center ski and Snap
Folders until they are clear of the box.
Using the hand crank located at the side of the machine frame, move the side drive belts apart until wider
than the box to be run. Note that the Snap Folders and drive belts are adjusted independently for the
width of the case.

1. Case Height Adjustment

Case Dimension ‘E’ Adjustment
Adjust the side drive belts out until the box can be placed between them and raise the height adjustment,
if necessary, until the case will fit under the center ski with the top flaps folded. Adjust the height down
until the top surface of the aluminum guide bar under the Snap Folders is level with top of the case to
position the folders at the correct height.

Top surface of the aluminum

Height adjustment guide bar under the folder should
handwheel can be located be level with the top of the case
on either side of the with its flaps folded or even with
machine arch the top of the score line.

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2. Snap Folder width adjustment

Case Dimension ‘D’ Adjustment
Loosen both clamp handles and adjust the Snap Folders until the aluminum guide bars are within 1/8” of
the case sides. Both folders will move together. Tighten the clamp handles to lock them in position.

Clamp
Handles

1/8”
3. Conveyor case width adjustment
Case Dimension ‘D’ Adjustment
Adjust the drive belts in until they lightly contact the case sides. Remove the box through the infeed and
wind the belts in by a further one half turn or until the box just slides easily between the infeed guides.

Note: Depending on case fill, case weight and box variation it may be necessary to make minor
adjustments to the settings for best performance. If the infeed guide skis are adjusted to be 3/16” – 1/4"
[5mm – 6mm] wider than the face of the conveyor belts, an easy sliding fit of the case between the skis
will indicate a correct width adjustment and makes a quick way to size the adjustment to the case width.

INFEED
SKI CASE
GUIDE

ADJUST THE INFEED

SKI GUIDES TO BE
3/16” – 1/4" [5MM –
6MM] WIDER THAN
THE FACE OF THE
CONVEYOR BELTS

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4. Top Ski Adjustment

The top ski serves to fold down the front minor flap and is mounted on a slotted bracket that permits the
ski to be adjusted toward or away from the machine infeed. The ski is preset at the factory in such a way
that the machine can handle a variety of box sizes without frequent re-adjustment.

TOP SKI POSITION THE REAR MINOR FLAP SHOULD

ADJUSTMENT NOT HIT TOP SKI WHEN FOLDING
DOWN BUT MOVE UNDER THE
SKI BEFORE IT IS OUT OF THE
'REACH' OF THE REAR MINOR
FLAP FOLDER AND NOT BE
ABLE TO POP BACK UP AND
BE PUSHED BACKWARD
BY THE SKI

SNAP FOLDER
REAR MINOR
FLAP FOLDER

The length of the box minor flap determines the adjustment, which usually is a function of box width with
RSC cases. When running boxes that are close to the machines minimum and maximum width limits, or
boxes with different flap lengths (i.e. flap cut boxes) it may be necessary to adjust the position of the ski
to ensure control of the minor flaps.
• To run most case widths close to the machine’s average width capabilities the ski should be set at
the midpoint on its mounting slot
• With cases that are close to the maximum machine width capability, or with larger than normal
minor flaps, the ski should be adjusted back, away from the machine infeed so the rear minor flap
does not hit the ski before it is fully folded down.
• With cases that are near the machine minimum width capability, or with narrower than normal
minor flaps, the ski should be adjusted forward, toward the machine infeed, so that the rear minor
flap does not spring open before it reaches the ski and is guided underneath it.

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5. Snap Folder Manual / Automatic Modes

Unusually long or wide cases may need to be run with the flaps folded by hand. There is an additional
toggle or selector switch mounted on the starter unit that is a Snap Folder override switch. In the
“AUTO” position the snap folder will cycle each time a case passes into the machine to automatically fold
down the top flaps. In the “MANUAL” position, the Snap Folder will actuate and remain with the
folders in the extended position so that the machine may be used in semi-automatic mode with the top
flaps folded down by hand.

Snap Folder mode switch.

In the ‘Manual’ position, the folders will extend
and remain out until the switch is returned to
the ‘Auto’ position. With the folders extended,
unusually long or wide cases can still be taped
in manual mode.

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OPERATING THE MACHINE

SAFETY: Note that when the machine is first switched on, the Snap Folders will cycle once
automatically. Keep hands out of the machine when starting.

Machine Sequence of Operations

As a case enters the BEL 252 the top leading minor flap is folded by a fixed ski and the case contacts a
limit switch at the front of the machine conveyor for Snap Folders actuation, but the folders do not act
until the rear end of the case passes by and releases the switch, signaling that the length of the case is
inside the folder section of the machine. At that point the rear minor flap folders actuate and fold down
the trailing minor flap. As the case moves through the machine the major folder plates extend and
actively fold down the major flaps. Fixed flap guides on the ends of the folders and the front of the top
tapehead holder guide the flaps under the tapehead for top taping. If used, bottom taping occurs at the
same time. After an adjustable actuation delay, the Snap Folders reset ready for the next case and the
side belt conveyor continues to drive the case until it exits the machine and.

Compressed Air
There is a manual air ON / OFF valve located where the air supply is connected to the machine at the rear
left-hand corner where the Filter/Regulator/Lubricator (FRL) unit located. When the valve is turned to
the “off” position, air pressure in the machine circuit is exhausted.

Electrical Switching
BEL machines are fitted with magnetic starter switches for added safety protection from accidental start-
up in the event of a power outage or disconnection. The switch is located at the center of the frame arch
for easy access from either side of the machine.
To start the BEL 252 press the green start button on the switch. Use the red button to stop the machine.
Note that there is an additional toggle or selector switch mounted on the starter unit which is a Snap
Folder override switch. See Snap Folder Manual / Automatic Modes above for an explanation of how
the switch is used..

Feeding Cases
Cases can be fed to the machine manually or with a powered conveyor. The case must be level to the
machine conveyor as it enters as the belts grip the case on its sides and keeps it at the same level or
angle that it was fed into the machine. If the case is tipped up or down entering the conveyor, it will
remain that way as it passes through the machine and cause poor taping performance or even case jams.
If a powered conveyor is to be used, a speed of 60 ft./min. or less is recommended and an automatic stop
gate will likely be required to prevent more than one case entering the machine at the same time.

Automatic Stop Gate (Option)

When using a powered infeed conveyor, the BEL 252 can be equipped with an optional timed automatic
stop gate which may be required to index or separate cases as they enter into the machine. If cases bunch
together before or as they enter the BEL 252, case jams are likely to occur and/or the cases may be taped
together in a string.

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Service and Maintenance Procedures

Uni-Drive Side Belt Drive System
Figure 2

Serpentine chain
drive

Side belt conveyor

with covers removed,
point ‘A’

DRIVE CHAIN IDLER

SPROCKET
Loosen mounting bolt
(point ‘D’) underneath
drive housing (next to
gear speed reducer) and
pull to tension.

Belt Tension / Belt Tensioning

Alignment and Tracking
Locking Bolt, Adjustment Nuts,
point ‘C’ point ‘B’

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The Uni-Drive side belt system is designed to keep the case square during sealing which results in a
technically stronger seal and a better-finished appearance.
This is achieved by linking the drives on the side belts to a single motor and reduction gear that inherently
synchronizes belt speeds. Chain Tension is maintained automatically during case width adjustments
through a self-compensating serpentine system as shown in Figure 2.

Chain Drive
Chain tension is preset at the factory but if adjustment is needed, tighten idler sprocket at point ‘D’ in Fig.
2. Proper tension is achieved when the horizontal sag in the chain measures between 1/8 inch and 1/4
inch with drive belts in a fully opened position.
The chain should be lubricated once every one hundred hours of operation using a spray Moly type chain
lubricant. Lift the flexible bellows cover and spray the chain through the slot in the stainless steel safety
covers underneath.
If it becomes necessary to access the chain drive, remove the stainless steel safety covers by unfastening
the screws attaching them to the machine frame cross member.
SAFETY: The covers must be replaced prior to restarting the machine.
The optional BEL 252 Spare Parts Maintenance Kit 70-011 contains all of the parts necessary for
maintaining the Uni-Drive system. Contact the factory or your local Belcor Distributor for price and
availability.

Gear Reducer
Worm-gear reducers should be inspected regularly for evidence of oil leakage, excessive noise or
vibration to ensure maximum performance and life.
Oil Leakage - Check housing bolts and tighten if necessary. Replace oil seals if required.
Oil Temperature - Worm-gear reducers usually run warm through an initial run-in period. Check
reducer temperature for undue rise above levels normally encountered and not accountable for by a rise in
ambient. Low or high oil levels and abnormal loading are possible sources.
Sound Level and Vibration - A change in sound level or excessive vibration can indicate low oil level,
abnormal loading or worn elements.
Dirt Accumulation - Excessive accumulation of dirt or grease will affect the proper cooling of the unit.

Side Drive Belts

Belt Replacement
(Refer to Figure 2.)
The side belts can be easily and quickly replaced with a minimum of down time. We recommend
replacing both belts at the same time. The procedure is as follows:
1. Remove the stainless steel safety covers, (held by screws at point A)
2. Loosen the lock bolt holding the idle pulley axle rigidly against the conveyor frame bracket (point
‘C’)
3. Release the belt tension by loosening the tensioning and tracking push/pull screws (point ‘B’) until
the belt can be removed upwards.

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4. Fit a new belt. If the belt has a bonded lap joint, be sure to install the belt so that it is moving in the
correct direction (arrows indicate the direction). Newer “finger” splice belts can move in either
direction.
5. Reset the belt tension by adjusting the two push pull screws (point ‘B’) to both tension and position
the belt so that it is running true and not trying to ride up or down on the idle pulley. Set the belt
tension so that approximately one inch of play is available when the belt is pulled sideways by
hand in the center of the machine or just enough tension to prevent the belts from slipping in
use.
When correct tension and tracking are achieved, tighten the clamp bolt that locks the position (at point
‘C’).

Snap Folder Adjustments And Servicing

(Refer to Snap Folder Diagrams in the BEL 252 Technical Reference Manual)
The function of the Snap Folders is to integrate the folding of the minor flaps and the major flaps within
the shortest possible time and travel distance. In each Snap Folder module the rear minor flap and major
flap folders are activated through a single mechanical, progressively linked drive system powered by a
pneumatic cylinder.
The Snap Folder modules, right and left are secured to their respective mounting brackets with three
machine screws in the top face of the folder body. After disconnecting the incoming air line, the module
can be easily removed for more convenient bench servicing.
To service each module remove the stainless steel face cover. All of the parts required to service the Snap
Folder are contained in the standard spare parts maintenance kit available under part number 70-011.
After checking for wear and replacing any worn parts it may be necessary to reset the flow control located
outside the rear end of each folder. The purpose of this flow control is to regulate the speed of the minor
folder hook so that it employs a following action to fold down the rear minor flap. This should be set to
operate as quickly as possible but without striking the edge of the top major flaps hard enough to
damaging them. However, operating the folders without any speed regulation will put added stress on the
components and shorten their life.
The return stroke of the folder is regulated by a built in flow control on the Snap Folder solenoid control
valve which is located below the machine frame adjacent to the air regulator. It only controls return
velocity but proper adjustment limits wear and reduces noise.
A timer, housed in a control box located below the frame near the outfeed end of the machine determines
the length of time that the Snap Folder mechanisms dwell in the forward position, to ensure that the flaps
do not spring open before they are captured beneath the flap guides and top tapehead holder. This timer
is factory set and should not normally need adjustment.

Manual / Automatic Override Control.

The Snap Folder control circuitry includes a Manual / Automatic toggle switch on the machine starter
enclosure to disengage the folders and enable the machine to be operated in a semi-automatic mode. This
feature is very useful in sealing boxes that may be over-length and in some special cases over-width from
the machine’s normal maximum capability, and for sealing boxes that for quality reasons i.e.
misalignment, soft board, etc., may not be “machinable”.

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When the switch is set to the “Manual” position the major and minor folders extend and remain fixed in
the engaged position so that they function as flap control guides for boxes. In this mode top flaps must be
first folded by hand before entering the machine.

Arch Cross Member Vertical Slide Adjustment

The machine arch cross member supports the components that perform functions on the top of the case
being sealed (the upper tape head holder on the BEL 150, the Snap Folders on the BEL 200 and both the
tape head holder and Snap Folders on the BEL 252 models). It mounts to the arch assembly with vertical
slide bar bearings that ride inside the arch columns, allowing the cross member to move smoothly up and
down for case height adjustment.
The bearings are made of a special hard-wearing plastic material but may need periodic adjustment to
compensate for wear or for loosening due to shipping or operating vibration. If worn or loose, the
bearings allow excessive movement of the upper tape head holder and may affect taping performance.

Fig. 1 Arch Cross Member Mounting

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Fig. 2 Vertical Slider Bearing Assembly

Fig. 3 Slider Bearing Adjustment

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Procedure to Adjust Vertical Slider Bearing Clearance

SAFETY - Disconnect the machine from both electrical and air supply lines before making
any adjustments or changes.
1. Remove the upper tape head from its holder.
2. Place two bars or pieces of wood of uniform thickness across the tops of side belt conveyor covers to
provide a level resting place for the upper tape head assembly and lower the cross member with the
tape head holder and/or Snap Folders until they rest on the bars.
3. Loosen the four corner bolts in each end plate that secure the cross member to the arch column just
enough so the slider bar bearings are free to be adjusted.
4. Place a screwdriver through an adjusting hole and use it to lever a slider bar bearing tighter against
the column channel flange. While holding the pressure with the screw driver, tighten the two
securing bolts through each bearing. Repeat this procedure for the other three bearings and try to
equalize the amount of adjustment between all four.
5. Test the fit of the bearings by lifting the cross member with the adjusting hand wheel. If too much
force is required and the fit seems very tight, loosen the bolts on one of the bearings on each side just
enough to free the movement. If the fit still seems too loose and there is still excessive movement of
the tape head holder, repeat the adjusting procedure using more leverage force. If the fit cannot be
improved with greater force, the bearings are excessively worn and need to be replaced.

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Preventative Maintenance Guide BEL 250/ 252

D • Keep framework and conveyor belts clean of dirt build-up, grease and oil residues.
A • Check drive belts for wear.
I
L • Check that the lubricator reservoir is filled (Chevron Lubrication Oil FM), air pressure is
regulated to the proper setting (80 PSI), and that any water is drained from the filter.
Y
• Check for worn or broken electrical and air connections.
8 Hrs.

3 • Check drive belts for proper Belt Tension and Belt Tracking. Refer to the Operation and
Service manual.
W • Note: Correct tension and tracking will prolong belt and drive bearing life.
E
• Lubricate Uni-Drive Side Belt drive chain and width adjustment roller chain with a Moly type
E
spray chain lube.
K
S • Cycle height and width adjustments and check for binding.
• Inspect electric motor and gearbox for evidence of oil leakage, noise or vibration and keep unit
120 free of dirt; excess accumulation of dirt or grease will affect the proper cooling of the units.
Hrs.

• Lubricate width and height adjustment lead screws with a Synthetic Teflon Grease ( Loctite –
Super Lube )
3 • Remove drive belts. Drive and Idle Pulleys should be inspected for bearing wear and pulley
damage. Remove any dirt build-up before drive belts are re-installed. Refer to Operation and
M Service manual.
O • Remove Snap Folders for Service. Remove covers and check for worn parts. Refer to Snap
N Folder Adjustments and Servicing in the Operation and Service manual.
T
H • Check Tension of the Uni-Drive Side Belt chain drive. Note: Proper tension is achieved when
the horizontal sag in the chain measures between 1/8” and ¼” with drive belts in a fully opened
L
position.
Y
• Check Cross Member Vertical Slide Adjustment for wear. Excessive wear may affect taping
480 performance.
Hrs • Inspect all pneumatic and electrical limit switches that they are properly adjusted and in good
working order.
• Check and lubricate Swivel Casters if equipped.
• Check for any loose or missing fasteners.

For detailed Technical Reference Information, Please see publication 66-06

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Trouble Shooting Guide

Section 1 - Corrugated Case Quality & Specifications

Corrugated case quality is a major contributor to smooth machine running and output quality. The
following points will help determine if you have a case size or quality problem:

• Case dimensions. Check to see that products fill the case efficiently and do not bulge (over-fill) or
under-fill the case. Consult your corrugated supplier for assistance. A correctly filled box will help
the automatic process by supporting the case during flap folding and the top flap sealing. Using the
right size of box and weight of material can often result in cost savings.

• Score (fold) lines. Make sure that the scores all in your cases are as well defined as possible to help
with the automatic folding process. This is one of the most common causes of poor case closing
performance Your corrugated case supplier can help make sure that correct score pressure is used for
your case specification.

• Corrugated case weakness. The box manufacturing process can damage the fluted construction of
corrugated board. Points to watch for:
1. Overall crushing of the corrugated flutes, causing the box to have a ‘soft’ and limp feeling.
This condition results in poor machine handling and may not give your product the required
protection.
2. Selective bands of crushing, usually parallel to the box flutes, can cause failure lines down
the box and result in poor machine performance.
Store flat cases in dry conditions and on a flat surface. Be careful not to stack excessive weight on
cases as crushing of the flutes will result.

• Cases “squareness”. Check the corner joint where the manufacturer glues the flat case together, it
can often be out of alignment making the case wider at one end than the other or twisted from end to
end. It can cause machine jams and poor quality.

• Flap corner slots. Corner slots should be as wide as possible so that the flaps can be manually or
automatically folded with a minimum of interference.

• Flaps overlap or are gapped (major flaps). They are a result of incorrect flap lengths. Fold a box
by hand to check that flaps meet neatly at the center.

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Section 2 - Case Drive Belt System

The Uni-Drive side belt system is designed to keep the case square during sealing which results in a
technically stronger seal and a better looking appearance.

Problem: Case Is Not Sealing Squarely.

Despite the parallel drive nature of the Uni-Drive system, the cases exit the machine not square after
sealing. Check that:
• the case is square prior to engagement in the side drive conveyor belts.
• the side belts are adjusted to case width correctly by the following method:
1. Adjust the belts in until they lightly contact case sides, but so the case can still slide through
belts if pushed firmly.
2. Remove the case and adjust the belts in one half turn more.
• niether of the conveyor belts are slipping on its drive pulley. See the section on belt tensioning
procedure under Service and Maintenance Procedures.
• in the case of round can or bottle products, check that belts are set to grip lightly but firmly on case
sides. Excessive side pressure can cause round objects to roll “over-center” and push the case out of
square.

Problem: Depressed or Crushed Band on Lower Case.

If the cases exit the machine with a band of crushed corrugation at the level of the conveyor belts, it is
likely that the case is gripped too tightly in the belts.

Problem: Rubber ‘Dust’ Being Shed by Belt.

A dark gray or almost black dust appears beneath the conveyor belts, particularly at the case exit end of
the machine
• Check that carton is clearing the belts as it exits the machine and that outfeed conditions do not cause
cases to back up into the machine.
• Check that belt tensioning and tracking adjustments are correct as described under Service and
Maintenance Procedures. Incorrect settings can cause premature belt wear and possible belt
breakage.

Problem: Rattling Noise from the Conveyor Drive.

Although pre-stretched chain is used in the machine drive, the chain over time may loosen and rattle on
the drive cover. Tighten the idler sprocket as described in the Service and Maintenance Procedures
section.

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Problem: Frequent Belt Breakage.

Belt life will depend on the conditions of machine use but frequent breakage may be due to one or more
of the following conditions:

• Belt tracking. Check that the belt does not try to ride up or down on the pulleys. See belt tensioning
and tracking adjustment under Service and Maintenance Procedures
• Belt Tension. Belts may be over-tensioned - correct setting allows approximately one inch of slack at
center point of conveyor.
• Idler and drive pulley rotation. Check that pulleys rotate freely and that bearings are not excessively
worn or seized.
• Rotation direction of belt. Look on the back of the belt for the type of join. Stepped-lap splice belts
must move in the direction of the arrow marked on the inside of the belt. Newer style “finger”-
spliced belts can move in either direction..

Problem: Machine Jams Frequently.

Turn off the machine as soon as jam occurs and before clearing jam. Open Belts and raise the top tape
head, remove jammed case and debris. Check for jam causes:
• Top tape head is adjusted too low.
• Product is overfilled or inconsistent causing intermittent jams.
• Top flaps are not folding correctly, flaps then hit top ski or tape head mechanism.

Section 3 - Top Flap Folding

All BEL Machines that automatically fold the top flaps of cases use the unique and patented Snap Folder
system.
The function of the Snap Folders is to integrate the folding of the minor flaps and major flaps within the
shortest possible time and travel distance. In each Snap Folder module the rear minor flap and major flap
folders are activated through a single mechanical, progressively linked drive system powered by a
pneumatic cylinder.

Problem: Rear Minor Does Not Fold

• Check to ensure air pressure is maintained at correct machine setting, and that adequate air volume is
being consistently delivered. Lack of air pressure and/or volume can result in poor flap closing
performance.
• Make sure that the Snap Folder modules have been correctly positioned for width and depth of box
being sealed.
• Check operating speed of Snap Folders. If speed is set too low the rear minor flap folders will not be
activated quickly enough to fold the rear minor flap. Consult machine service manual for procedure
on adjusting flow control speed regulators.

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• Check that scoring in flaps is adequate and that they will break easily and cleanly.
• Flaps shorter than three inches may have to be run on a modified machine

Problem: Rear Minor Appears To Fold and Then Releases and May Be Turned Backwards.

• Check that front minor ski is set in correct position;

- very narrow boxes set to rear of range,
- mid width boxes set to center of range, and
- very wide boxes set to front of range.
Note: this adjustment is used for extremes of range, and should normally be set in the middle position.

Problem: Rear Minor Flap Does Not Fold and Back of Box Caves Inward.

• Check if back panel of box is supported by contents, if not supported then the minor flap may be
prevented from folding on its score line. To remedy, improve fill of case or reduce case dimensions.
Pre folding rear minor can also help if it is practical to pre fold before case enters machine.

Problem: Minor Flap Does Not Fold at All

• Check that Snap Folder module is operating, (see manual).

• Be sure that box is tripping Snap Folder switch on infeed.
• Check that air to machine is turned on.
• Check that box has adequate scores to allow minor to fold.
• Be sure that overfill is not excessive.

Problem: Top major Flaps Bind On Center Ski.

• Check that excessive side pressure has not been put on box causing flaps to bind on vertical side of
ski.
Check that ski head has not been misaligned and is in centered between belts and Snap Folders.

Problem: Top Major Flaps Overlap in Center of Case.

• Check for excessive side pressure from belts or plastic shoulder support guides on Snap Folders.
Check that flaps are not too long as a result of a poorly manufactured case.

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Problem: Top Major Flaps Have a Gap in Center.

• Check the case is correctly sized for contents.

• Check that shoulder compression is squeezing top flaps together.

Problem: After Taping top Major Flaps are Wrinkled on Leading Edge.

• Check that top head is not adjusted too low.

• Check if tape bracket is adjusted too low.

Problem: Top Major Flaps Have a Tapered Gap or Have a Gap/Overlap

Combination.

• Check that case dimensions are square.

• Check plastic shoulder support guides on Snap Folders.
• Check that tape unwind tension is not excessive. This can cause the major flaps to be pulled back
causing rear gap.

Problem: Top Major Flaps Fold Down but Leading Edge is Lifted up by
Tape and Folded Back

• Tape head may be set too high. Readjust machine to correct box height
• Check to ensure tape head bracket has not been set too high. Normally positioning is factory pre-set,
however adjustment may be occasionally needed when running overfill or underfill cases.
Adjustments may have to be made on a “Trial and Error” basis until optimum setting has been
obtained.

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Section 4 - General Taping Conditions

Problem: Tape Does Not Stick To Case Surface.

The tape is not bonding to the corrugated board of the flaps or ends of the case to provide a secure seal.
Look for the following conditions:
• Under-filled Case. Check that product provides support under the top flaps so that they are not
simply pushed down or away from the tape head rather than having the tape rolled onto the surface.
• Overlapping flaps. If the outside (major) flaps are allowed to overlap the “step” created results in an
uneven taping surface causing poor tape adhesion that can release during shipping and handling. See
comments on flaps under Troubleshooting section 1, Corrugated Case Quality & Specifications
• Tape head roller contact. Check that the tape head contact or wipe-down rollers are making good
contact with the box and that the roller spring tension is correct.
• Dust or dirt. Large amounts of dust or dirt gathering on boxes or in the air will impair adhesive
effectiveness.
• Temperature. Hot or cold temperature may require tapes with appropriate adhesive formulations for
good initial bond and permanent sealing performance.
• Tape adhesive. Check presence and quality of tape adhesive.

Problem: Tape is not cut uniformly.

The tape is not cut properly every time, in the worst situations several boxes may be taped together.

SAFETY CAUTION – Tape Head knife is very sharp

!
Check the following conditions:
• Tape head position. If the top tape head is set too high the cut off knife will not be fully activated
resulting in poor cut off. The tape head side plates should be within 1/16 to 1/8” of the case. Check
also that cases ride fully down between the conveyor belts to provide proper contact with the bottom
head cut off knife.
• Knife extension. Be sure that knife extends enough to fully contact the tape during the cutting
stroke.
• Tape tension. Unroll tension should be smooth and not too tight as a ‘snap back’ caused by stretched
tape can cause a jagged cut off and tape pieces to stick to the blade.
• Clean knife. Clean the blade and apply a little silicon or oil to avoid adhesive build up on the sharp
points.
• Knife blade wear or damage. Blades must be very sharp to work well. The points are easily
damaged if contacted by any hard material. Replace the blade if it seems dull.
• Cut-off spring tension. Check to ensure the spring that provides power to cut off arm has enough
tension to cut through the tape. Replace the spring if it is too weak.

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Problem: Tape tail does not stick down properly.

The end of the tape on the back side of the case as it leaves the machine has not adhered well to the box.
Check these conditions:
• Tape tension. Tension should be is smooth and not too tight. “Snap back” will cause tape tail to
recoil and not stick well on the back of the case.
• Tape head roller contact. Tape head contact or wipe-down rollers should make good contact with
the box. Adjust roller spring tension, if necessary.

Problem: Tape is off-center.

The line of tape is not centered over the gap between flaps on the top or bottom of the box. Look for the
following conditions:
• Tape roll position. Check that the tape roll is fully pushed on to spool.
• Tape head straight. Check that the tape head sits straight in its bracket and is not tilted to either
side.
• Obstructions. Look for obstructions that could be pushing the tape off center.

Problem: Tape Falls Forward on Bottom Head.

The beginning end of the tape must stand vertically in front of the tape head front roller in order to
contact the leading end of the next case. A bow made across the tape by the tape head guides help to
stiffen it and a static electric charge on the tape head rollers attract the tape and help to keep it in place. If
the bottom tape will not stand vertically, examine the following factors:
• Contamination. Tape may be wound around the roller or other dirt on the roller.
• No static charge. Dust roller surfaces with talcum powder to the increase static charge on the roller.
• Tape head guides. Check that the tape holder or finger is set correctly, see tape head manual.
• Ambient conditions. A strong breeze in the vicinity of the tape sealer can cause the tape to blow
down. High temperature or humidity may affect tape characteristics.
• Type of tape. Some brands and types of tape have more ‘body’ than others and a change of tape may
be needed, particularly in difficult ambient conditions.

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Section 5 - Case Infeed and Indexing

Feeding in of cases is an important issue in the efficient operation of automatic case closing. (See manual
for information.)
Infeed conveyors should be level and horizontally aligned. Case should transfer smoothly when pushed
or powered into the machine without changing elevation and remaining level.
A level entry is important as the side belts will grip and hold the case in the same attitude as presented
into the machine. If the level and case angle are incorrect this will go through the process and cause jams
or poor quality closures.

Problem: Case is loosely sealed on bottom

• Check that case is entering the machine in a level position. If not adjust conveyor and /or machine
height and centering.

Trouble Shooting - Case Infeed Separation / Indexing

Case indexing provides a gating function which ensures that cases enter automatic sealing machines in a
timed manner to prevent jams due to more than one case being in process at one time.
This option is normally used when an accumulation or back log of cases are expected on the infeed
conveyor.
When cases are hand packed it is not normal to need an indexing gate, as they are fed one at a time to the
sealer.
The indexing gate is in the normally up position and provides some squaring assistance as the moving
case strikes the gate. A timer will then drop the gate if the machine is clear and ready to cycle.

Trouble Shooting - Case Indexing Option

Problem: Two cases are in machine at the same time and cause a jam.
• Check that the gate is powered up and working.
• Check that the timer is set to a sufficient interval to permit proper separation. A small slot head screw
in the head of the round timer block can be adjusted to change the dwell time.

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Optional Equipment
BEL 252
- Stainless Steel Adjustable Leg Extenders with U.H.M.W. Castor Pads. (70-003)
- Stainless Steel Adjustable Leg Extenders with Castor Wheels. (70-004)
- Internal (in frame) Indexing Stop Gate
- External (to frame) Indexing Stop Gate
- Active Overfill Compression System (70-032)
- Infeed / Outfeed Table (70-046)
- Stainless Steel Width Adjusting Screws (70-083)
- Powered Infeed and Outfeed Conveyors (various 70-090 - 095)

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