Low Tension Sub-Spindle

The Pilot Line Low Tension Sub-Spindle (CRX-LTS) is a mechanical, spring-tensioned sub-spindle designed for applications requiring significantly lower mandrel tension than the standard Coil Winder sub-spindle. With an adjustable tension range of 0.25 to 1.0 lb, the Low Tension Sub-Spindle is ideal for delicate mandrels, fine wire winding, polymer mandrels, and other applications where the standard 35–90 N tension range is too high.
Instead of using an electric linear actuator to generate mandrel tension, the CRX-LTS mounts the complete sub-spindle assembly on a precision linear rail and applies tension with a low-rate extension spring. To set the tension, simply install the mandrel, slide the spring anchor until the desired tension is shown on the integrated scale, and tighten the adjustment knob. The spring then maintains tension continuously throughout the winding process without motors, sensors, or electronic tension control.
In addition to providing very low winding tension, the spring-loaded design provides passive compliance for mandrels that stretch or creep during winding. The standard 0.3 lb/in spring maintains virtually constant force over small changes in mandrel length, allowing the sub-spindle to move with the mandrel as it elongates. This makes the CRX-LTS particularly useful for polymer and other flexible mandrels where maintaining tension with a fixed spindle position can be difficult.
The Low Tension Sub-Spindle is a direct replacement for the standard Coil Winder sub-spindle assembly and is designed to reuse the existing sub-spindle motor, electrical cables, belt, and cable chain. Installation takes approximately five minutes and requires no modification to the Coil Winder. The existing electric tensioning actuator is simply removed and is no longer required.