Tape Head Maintenance

Case sealers are workhorses in the packaging industry, because of this, the tape head components need to be maintained properly for optimal performance. We are a Loveshaw Certified Service Provider and have compiled a list of eight common maintenance items on tape heads that need to be checked due to wear and tear.

Tools Needed for Proper Maintenance

• Crescent wrench (small-medium size)
• Allen wrenches (metric set)
• Needle nose pliers
• Screwdrivers – have various sizes of standard flathead and Philips screwdrivers
• 3/8’ socket wrench with metric socket set – be sure to have a 10mm socket
• Utility knife

Knife Blade

All maintenance issues can usually be solved by changing the blade. Be sure to inspect the blade, making sure it is free of tape debris. When replacing the blade, there is a locating pin on the blade that sets the blade in the proper position.

Wipe Down Roller (Rubber Roller)

Even the slightest amount of tape on rollers impairs its performance, so be sure to check at the beginning and end of every shift change in your facility. Look for cuts and tears in the rubber, if found replace it with a new roller.

Knurled Roller

This roller controls tape tension and will only rotate in one direction.

Tape Core

The fiber washers on the tape core are an indicator of the amount of tension. There should be moderate tension.

Guide Rollers (Metal Rollers)

Spin rollers to test their movement. If rollers are not spinning freely or spinning hard, it’s an indication of tape residue inside the roller and on the spindle on which the roller rests. Use a solvent such as Goo-D-Solv-r, or something similar, for cleaning the spindle. This solvent can be squirted inside the roller to dissolve the adhesive that’s causing the roller to “stick” on the spindle.

Clutch Roller for Tape Application (Rubber Roller) 

Look for cuts and gouges in the rubber and replace them if any are found.

Check for Proper Tape Alignment & Threading

Each Loveshaw tape head has a tape threading diagram showing the proper path the tape should be wound around the rollers. The adhesive side of the tape goes on the knurled surfaces. The back side of the tape goes on smooth surfaces. The tape should be centered on the clutch roller for tape application.

Knife Arm

The tension spring and bolt should be checked for proper alignment. The bolt can get bent and should be straightened if necessary.

Rocket Industrial offers a variety of parts from Loveshaw, Eagle, 3M, BestPack, and Interpack to ensure your case sealer stays running at optimal performance. Take a look at our case sealer parts or contact us for assistance in ordering the correct parts for your carton sealer.