MACHINE NAME: AIR STEAMING SHOE UPPER SOFTENING MACHINE 

MODEL NO: TH-516A HOT

BRAND: TENGHONG   

FEATURES

• This machine employs the inside powerful high pressure, and the spraying principle of low water content of the steam, which makes the operation easy, and the softening of the shoe surface quicken.
• The machine employs automatically water supplying system controlled the water lever through two products, and is fixed with multiple layers safety system for arming the shortage of the water. The safety is very high.
• The volume of the steam, the content of the water, and the proposing time can be adjusted, which applies to all kinds of leather.
• This machine employs the steam of high temperature and large pressure model. which makes the shoe surface soften adequately. Then add the sulfur to shape the shoe surface, which makes the shoe surface and wooden shoe last tightened to achieve the effect of removing the furrow.

TECHNICAL PARAMETER

1. Voltage                   : 380V/50HZ
2. Net weight              : 80Kg
3. Gross weight           : 120Kg
4. Dimension               : 66CMx90CMx150CM
5. Packing size            : 78CMx10CMx165CM

The TH-516A Hot Air Steaming Shoe Upper Softening Machine represents a cutting-edge solution in the footwear manufacturing industry, designed to enhance the softening and shaping of shoe uppers with high precision and efficiency. This machine is engineered with advanced technology that leverages high-pressure steam and a controlled low-water-content steam spraying principle to provide rapid, effective, and uniform softening of leather surfaces. Built to meet the rigorous demands of modern shoe production, the TH-516A combines operational ease, superior safety features, and versatile adjustability to deliver outstanding results across a wide range of leather types and materials. This comprehensive description delves into every feature and advantage of the TH-516A, illustrating why it stands out as a premier choice for footwear manufacturers worldwide. The footwear industry is highly competitive and continuously evolving, with manufacturers striving to deliver products that meet stringent quality standards while optimizing production efficiency. Central to this endeavor is the effective preparation of shoe uppers, particularly the softening and shaping of leather surfaces to ensure perfect fitting, durability, and aesthetic appeal. The TH-516A Hot Air Steaming Shoe Upper Softening Machine is designed specifically to address these needs by combining high-pressure steam technology with innovative water control mechanisms and robust safety systems. It enables shoe manufacturers to speed up production cycles, minimize material waste, and elevate product quality.

Feature Highlights and Functional Advantages

Powerful High-Pressure Inside Steam System

One of the defining characteristics of the TH-516A is its use of a powerful, high-pressure internal steam system. Unlike traditional softening methods that rely on low-pressure or saturated steam, this machine employs steam with low water content but high pressure, which significantly enhances the softening effect on shoe uppers. This principle of steam application ensures the moisture penetrates effectively into the leather without saturating the material excessively, preventing damage while achieving optimal softness.

This approach results in several operational advantages:

• Faster Softening Process: The high-pressure steam rapidly relaxes the leather fibers, accelerating the production cycle without sacrificing quality.

• Uniform Surface Treatment: The controlled steam spray ensures the entire surface of the shoe upper receives even treatment, eliminating inconsistencies and weak points.

• Reduced Water Staining: Because of the low water content in the steam, there is minimal risk of water stains or marks, preserving the leather's natural appearance and gloss.

Manufacturers benefit from a faster, more reliable softening process, which translates directly into higher throughput and better finished goods.

Automatic Water Supply System with Multi-Layer Safety Controls

Water management is crucial in any steam-based machine, and the TH-516A excels in this area with its automatically controlled water supply system. This system monitors the water level precisely through dual control components, ensuring the boiler maintains optimal water volume without manual intervention.

Complementing this are multiple layers of safety systems designed to prevent water shortages that could otherwise lead to overheating or equipment damage. These safety features include:

• Water Level Sensors: Continuously monitor the water reservoir to maintain appropriate levels.

• Automatic Shutoff Mechanism: Stops operation if water levels drop below a safe threshold, protecting the boiler and connected systems.

• Alarm and Notification Systems: Alert operators immediately if any abnormalities are detected, allowing for prompt corrective action.

This high degree of automation and safety ensures uninterrupted, safe operation throughout extended production runs, reducing downtime and equipment wear.

Adjustable Steam Volume, Water Content, and Steam Exposure Time

The TH-516A is engineered with a high degree of operational flexibility, recognizing that different leather types and shoe styles require tailored treatment parameters. Operators can precisely adjust:

• Steam Volume: The amount of steam produced and delivered to the shoe upper can be scaled up or down to suit the thickness and texture of the leather.

• Water Content in Steam: By modulating the water content in the steam spray, the machine optimizes the moisture delivered for specific material sensitivities.

• Steam Exposure Time: The duration for which the shoe upper is exposed to the steam can be varied, allowing for gentle treatment of delicate leathers or intensive softening of tougher materials.

This flexibility makes the TH-516A ideal for a wide range of leather types, including full-grain, top-grain, corrected-grain, and synthetic leathers. It can also accommodate various shoe designs, from dress shoes requiring subtle softening to rugged boots needing thorough flexibility enhancement.

High-Temperature, High-Pressure Steam Model with Sulfur Treatment for Surface Shaping

Another remarkable feature of the TH-516A is its ability to employ high-temperature, high-pressure steam, which is essential for thoroughly softening shoe uppers to prepare them for lasting and shaping processes.

The machine incorporates a unique sulfur additive treatment method that complements the steam softening by enhancing the shoe surface's molding and shaping characteristics. This sulfur addition assists in tightening the shoe surface against the wooden shoe last, effectively removing furrows, wrinkles, and imperfections that often occur during the shoe-lasting process.

This dual-action approach—steam softening combined with sulfur shaping—ensures:

• Perfect Surface Smoothness: The shoe upper conforms tightly to the last, eliminating creases and furrows.

• Enhanced Adhesion: The treatment helps the shoe upper bond more securely during assembly.

• Improved Final Product Quality: The shoes exhibit a professional finish with enhanced durability and visual appeal.

Operation and User Interface

The TH-516A has been designed with user convenience at its core. Operators can easily control and monitor the machine’s parameters through an intuitive interface that allows adjustment of steam volume, water content, and timing. The automated water supply system removes the need for frequent manual refills, and the integrated safety alerts provide peace of mind during continuous operation. The machine also features a rapid startup mechanism, ensuring minimal waiting times when initiating production runs. Routine maintenance tasks, such as cleaning and inspection of the steam nozzles and water supply system, can be performed quickly thanks to an accessible design, which reduces downtime and keeps the production line moving efficiently.

Applications

The TH-516A is highly versatile and suited for numerous applications within the footwear manufacturing process, including:

• Leather Softening: Ideal for relaxing and conditioning various types of leather uppers before assembly.

• Surface Preparation: Prepares the shoe upper surface for lasting by removing creases and wrinkles.

• Synthetic Material Treatment: Equally effective on coated or synthetic shoe upper materials requiring controlled moisture and heat.

• Pre-Lasting Processing: Ensures the shoe upper conforms perfectly to the last for superior shaping and fit.

This broad application range allows shoe manufacturers to standardize their upper softening process across different product lines, improving consistency and operational efficiency.

Advantages Over Traditional Methods

The TH-516A offers several distinct advantages compared to conventional softening methods such as manual steaming, hot water soaking, or low-pressure steaming:

• Rapid Cycle Times: The machine’s high-pressure, low-water steam technology dramatically reduces softening times, speeding up production.

• Precision Control: Adjustable steam parameters mean the process can be finely tuned to suit each leather type and shoe style.

• Enhanced Safety: Multi-layer water level monitoring and automatic shutoff systems protect both the machine and operators.

• Consistent Quality: Uniform steam application ensures every shoe upper is softened evenly for reliable results.

• Energy Efficiency: Controlled steam production minimizes waste, lowering operational costs.

• Compact Design: The machine’s space-saving dimensions allow it to fit easily into existing factory layouts without disruption.

Industry Feedback and Customer Testimonials

Users of the TH-516A have consistently praised its ability to enhance production speed without compromising quality. Many shoe manufacturers highlight the machine’s robust safety systems and reliable automatic water supply as critical factors in reducing operational risk. Factory supervisors often note improved product consistency, especially when working with delicate or premium leather materials. Additionally, the sulfur treatment feature is widely appreciated for its contribution to eliminating lasting defects and improving final product appearance.

Environmental and Sustainability Considerations

The TH-516A incorporates environmentally conscious design principles by optimizing steam production to avoid excessive water and energy consumption. Its automatic water supply and steam control systems ensure that only the required amount of steam is generated, reducing unnecessary waste and lowering the carbon footprint of the manufacturing process. Furthermore, the machine’s durable construction and easy maintenance reduce the need for frequent replacements, contributing to sustainability goals in the footwear industry.

Installation and Integration

Installing the TH-516A is straightforward, thanks to its standard industrial power requirements and compact size. It can be easily integrated into existing production lines, positioned adjacent to other key machinery such as lasting or stitching machines. The manufacturer provides detailed setup instructions and customer support to assist in commissioning, training operators, and optimizing machine settings for specific factory conditions. The TH-516A Hot Air Steaming Shoe Upper Softening Machine offers a comprehensive, advanced, and user-friendly solution for modern footwear manufacturing needs. Its innovative high-pressure steam technology, combined with automated water supply and safety features, makes it a reliable, efficient, and indispensable asset for shoe production facilities. By delivering rapid softening, precise control, and improved shaping results, this machine helps manufacturers improve product quality, reduce production times, and achieve greater consistency across their shoe lines. Its versatility and safety ensure it meets the demands of diverse materials and production environments, making the TH-516A an excellent investment for any footwear manufacturer seeking to enhance their manufacturing processes.