Abstract: A method of producing corrugated fins employing a fin mill machine (12) for forming strip stock (14) into corrugated fins (16) to form heat exchanger fins or the like. A fin mill machine (12) that can carry out the method includes a tension control subsystem (20) employing a pneumatic cylinder (32) to create the tension which is controlled by a feedback loop which automatically adjusts cylinder pressure based upon measurements from a strain gauge (44). The fin mill machine also includes a height measurement subsystem (22) which continually measures the average height of the fins in a packed state, which allows for manual or automatic feedback to the tension subsystem (20) to adjust the average fin height.

Abstract: A fin mill machine (12) for forming strip stock (14) into corrugated fins (16) to form heat exchanger fins or the like. The fin mill machine (12) includes a tension control subsystem (20) employing a pneumatic cylinder (32) to create the tension which is controlled by a first feedback loop that automatically adjusts cylinder pressure based upon tension as measured by a strain gauge (44). Adjustments to the pressure in the pneumatic cylinder (32) can also be made by a second feedback loop based on air pressure measurements from a pressure transducer (58) for use in a set-up or trouble shooting mode.

Abstract: A fin mill machine (12) for forming strip stock (14) into corrugated fins (16) to form heat exchanger fins or the like. The fin mill machine (12) includes a height measurement subsystem (22) which continually measures the average height of the fins in a packed state, which allows for manual or automatic feedback to the tension subsystem (20) to adjust the average fin height.