Molins MAX S Filter Attachment: Spare Parts and Maintenance Guide
The Molins MAX S is the standard filter attachment paired with MK8 and MK9 cigarette makers. With over 500 units still in active service worldwide, it remains one of the most common filter attachment platforms in cigarette production. Understanding its spare parts requirements is essential for maintaining production uptime in any facility operating Molins making lines.
Machine Overview
- Manufacturer: Molins (UK) — now part of Coesia Group
- Primary role: Attaches filter plugs to cigarette columns using tipping paper
- Speed: Matched to MK9 at 5,000-5,500 cpm; MK8 at 4,500-5,000 cpm
- Configuration: Typically operates inline with MK8/MK9 and a tray filler (HCF 80)
- Status: No longer in production, but aftermarket support is widely available
Key Spare Parts by Section
1. Filter Plug Feed and Alignment
- Filter plug hopper — vibrating feed mechanism. Spring and damper wear causes feed inconsistency.
- Plug alignment drums — ensure filter plugs enter the correct position. Timing belt replacement is routine every 12-18 months.
- Plug transfer rollers — rubber-coated rollers that grip and transport plugs. Surface glazing reduces grip over time.
2. Tipping Paper Handling
- Tipping paper reel holder — tension control assembly. Brake pads wear and require quarterly adjustment.
- Tipping paper knife assembly — cuts tipping paper to precise length for each cigarette. Blade replacement every 2-3 million cuts.
- Paper guide rails — carbide wear strips that prevent tearing. Replaced annually under normal operation.
- Gum roller assembly — applies adhesive to tipping paper. Roller surface degradation causes glue streaks.
3. Joining and Rolling Section
- Rolling drum assemblies — the core of filter attachment. Drum surface wear affects cigarette roundness and seam quality.
- Garniture tongue and horn — guide the cigarette column and tipping paper through rolling. The most wear-intensive parts — replace every 400-800 hours.
- Heater bars — dry the adhesive during rolling. Thermocouple failure is the most common electrical issue.
4. Ejection and Transport
- Ejection drum — removes finished cigarettes to the conveyor. Suction hole blockage from dust accumulation is common.
- Suction transport belts — carry finished cigarettes to the tray filler. Belt tracking issues cause jams.
- Reject mechanism — pneumatic or solenoid-driven ejection for defective cigarettes. Seal wear causes air leaks.
Critical Maintenance Points
- Garniture tongue inspection: Check daily for scoring or wear. A worn tongue causes loose filter attachment and increased rejection rates.
- Gum roller cleaning: Remove adhesive buildup every shift to maintain consistent glue application.
- Timing verification: Check plug and cigarette alignment every 2-3 weeks. Misalignment causes tipping paper wrinkles.
- Suction pressure check: Low vacuum in transport drums increases miss rates. Filter cleaning every month.
Common Compatibility Issues with MK8/MK9
- MAX S and MK9 must be synchronized precisely. Timing belt wear on either machine causes production defects.
- Filter rod length adjustments on MAX S require corresponding changes on MK9 cutting drum settings.
- When upgrading MK9 components, verify MAX S transfer drum spacing — mismatched pitch causes tipping paper tearing.
Spare Parts Sourcing
We stock a comprehensive range of MAX S spare parts, from consumable garniture tongues to complete drum assemblies. All parts are manufactured to original Molins specifications with wear-resistant carbide and surface treatments for extended service life.
If you operate a MAX S and need help identifying or cross-referencing parts, contact our technical team for assistance.
Contact our technical support team for MAX S filter attachment parts.
