What is a Multiwire Drawing Machine? The Engine of Modern Cable Manufacturing

In the rapidly evolving world of wire and cable production, efficiency and precision are paramount. At the heart of this manufacturing process lies a critical piece of equipment: the Multiwire Drawing Machine. This article delves into the fundamentals of this technology, its operational principles, and why HONTA, a leading wire and cable machine manufacturer, is at the forefront of innovation in this field.

Understanding the Multiwire Drawing Process

The primary function of any drawing machine is to reduce the diameter of a metal rod (copper or aluminum) to a specified wire size through a series of dies. A traditional single-wire machine processes one rod at a time. A Multiwire Drawing Machine, however, is a revolutionary step forward. It is designed to draw multiple wires—8, 16, 24, or even 32—simultaneously from multiple rods fed into the system.

This parallel processing capability is a game-changer for wire and cable equipment productivity. It transforms a copper rod breakdown machine or an aluminium rod breakdown machine into a high-output production line. The process typically involves a rod breakdown with annealer machine for copper and aluminium, where the metal is softened (annealed) inline to improve ductility and conductivity before or after drawing.

HONTA Drawing Machines: Engineered for high-speed, multi-wire production.

Core Components and Technological Innovations

A modern HONTA wire drawing machine is more than just a mechanical frame. It's an integrated system of advanced components:

1. The Drawing Block with Individual Motors

The most significant advancement is the rod breakdown machine with individual motors. Unlike older models using a single motor and a complex gear system to drive all capstans, HONTA's individual motors multiwire drawing machine assigns a dedicated servo motor to each drawing capstan. This allows for:

• Precise Speed Control: Each wire's drawing speed can be independently and precisely controlled, ensuring consistent tension and diameter.
• Reduced Maintenance: Eliminates gearboxes and associated wear, lowering downtime and maintenance costs.
• Enhanced Flexibility: Easy adjustment of speed ratios between blocks for different materials and final wire sizes.

HONTA Multi-Motor Rod Breakdown lines featuring individual drive technology for superior control.

2. Inline Annealing System

Work hardening occurs during drawing, making the wire brittle. An integrated inline annealer machine is crucial. HONTA's systems provide continuous, controlled annealing, restoring the wire's malleability and electrical properties without needing a separate, batch-processing step. This is integral to a rod breakdown with annealer machine for copper and aluminium.

3. Advanced Take-Up Systems

The final stage is winding the finished wire. HONTA offers various wire take up machine options to suit different applications:

• Single Spooler: For standard winding onto one reel.
• Double Spooler: Enables continuous production by automatically switching to an empty spool when one is full, maximizing machine uptime.
• Basket Coiler: Ideal for collecting large volumes of wire in a loose, coiled form for further processing like bunching or stranding.

These components form the complete wire & cable machinery ecosystem from HONTA.

Why HONTA is a Leader in Multiwire Drawing Technology

Established in 2006, HONTA has dedicated nearly two decades to mastering cable conductor drawing and stranding technology. Their expertise is recognized globally, evidenced by their expansion with HONTA INC. in the United States in 2017. Here’s what sets them apart:

Commitment to Quality and Certification

HONTA's manufacturing processes and products meet the highest international standards. The company holds critical certifications that assure customers of quality and reliability:

• ISO 9001 Certification: Guarantees a consistent quality management system for design, production, and service.
• ISO 14001 Certification: Demonstrates commitment to environmentally responsible manufacturing practices.
• UDEM International Certification: An additional mark of product safety and performance verification.

These certifications are not just plaques on the wall; they are embedded in the DNA of every HONTA machine produced.

Proven Global Presence and Manufacturing Scale

With a large production base in Kunshan, China, and a strategic presence in the USA, HONTA serves as a true global partner. Their products are the result of "long-term friendly cooperation with many well-known cable companies at home and abroad," refining their designs based on real-world industrial feedback. Visiting their website at www.jshonta.com showcases their extensive range, from compact services rod breakdown machines to full-scale 32 wires multiwire drawing machine lines.

HONTA's modern manufacturing facility, equipped to produce high-precision wire and cable equipment.

Focus on Automation and Human-Centric Design

HONTA's philosophy centers on creating machines that are "high speed, efficiency, automation and humanization." Their cable machines feature user-friendly PLC interfaces, automated lubrication systems, and ergonomic layouts that reduce operator fatigue and error, while maximizing throughput and safety.

Choosing the Right Multiwire Drawing Machine for Your Needs

Selecting the correct machine configuration is vital. Consider these factors, where HONTA's expertise can guide you:

• Output Volume: An 8 wires multiwire drawing machine may suffice for smaller operations, while large-scale producers may need a 24 or 32 wires system.
• Wire Range: HONTA machines cover a broad spectrum, from fine wires (e.g., 0.10-0.30mm) to larger diameters (e.g., 0.37-1.37mm).
• Material: Ensure the machine is configured for your primary material, be it copper or aluminum.
• Integration: Plan for downstream processes. A line with a double spooler or basket coiler can seamlessly feed into stranding or insulating lines.