Machine Way Covers

Machine way covers are guards that are used to protect machine rails, guideways and linear tracks from contaminants such as dust, debris, coolant and other debris. They help prevent damage to critical components, thereby extending the life and performance of the machine.

Machine way covers types

There are flexible cover designs that can be rolled up, bent and retracted to allow unrestricted movement within a dynamic range of motion.

Covers are available in a variety of materials and types. Depending on the application requirements, the covers can be polymer based, metal or fabric.

1. Fabric bellows are the most flexible and can accommodate high speed and smooth sliding applications. They are available in a variety of shapes, sizes and materials, including elastomer-coated fabrics, thermoplastics and coated aromatic polyamide fibers.

2. Industrial Fabric Roller Shutters are capable of high speeds and are available in a wide range of materials. They are ideal for travel paths with spatial obstructions that impede deeper coverage contours.

3. Skateboard Covers: Steel covers offer a low-profile option that is capable of high speed operation and can withstand weld spatter and hot debris.

4. Aluminum roll-up curtains are constructed of linked extrusions to create a barrier against hot debris, coolant and oil.

5. Metal-shielded bellows have steel shields attached to each fold to protect against abrasives and liquids. Metal shielded bellows are an alternative to telescoping covers.

6. Metal shutters made of steel tape are suitable for longer strokes and larger spans and can be used to cover walking surfaces in hazardous pits.

7. Steel telescopic covers provide the ultimate protection for machine tool rails against falling tools, abrasives, chemicals and coolants. Retractable covers can be refurbished as required and wipers can be replaced.

Cover Design Considerations What factors should be considered when selecting a protective road cover?

Each way cover application will review the motion requirements, operating environment and space constraints.

Inform the protective cover manufacturer of your application requirements, for example:

Temperature conditions including ambient temperature and nearby heat sources

Exposure to environmental threats such as dust, oil, acid, coolant, weld splatter, etc.

Velocity (speed and acceleration) and cycling frequency of the cover

Vacuum or pressure conditions

Load support requirements (e.g., travel surfaces for inspection or maintenance, heavy chip loads, or protection from falling tools)

Direction of cover movement (horizontal, vertical, cross rail/front, ceiling/roof cover)