TPT November 2007

Technology Update

X-ray and laser-based measurement for extrusion lines

Sikora’s Laser 2010 T, Laser 2025 T and Laser 2050 T gauge heads provide diameter and ovality measurement, inclusive of minimum and maximum values, direction or angle. Ovality is always precisely measured, independent from the orientation of the minimum and maximum values in relation to the three measurement axes. For the online acquisition of tube and hose profiles, the Laser 2000 Profil defines distinctive positions of a profile in the measuring field, from the functional equations of tangential laser diodes. This device is suitable for the exact measurement of round or oval profiles, even if the profiles are arranged in an inclined position. The design of the gauge head is downwards open and therefore provides effective protection against dirt or water. For the integration of gauge heads into extrusion lines that are controlled by a production line processor, interfaces such as RS 485, Profibus DP, Canbus, Ethernet or analogue interfaces are already integrated in the gauge head. All gauge heads of the Laser 2000 series have an RS 232-C interface for PC or notebook connection.

Sikora AG, Germany, manufactures a range of measurement and control technology for the hose and tube industry. For the diameter measurement of hoses and tubes, Sikora provides measuring devices for a product diameter from 0.05mm to 300mm. Progressive CCD-technique in combination with impulse-driven laser diodes and the use of powerful processors allow extremely short exposure times of 0.2 µsec. Vibrations of the product to be measured have no influence on the measurement, ensuring a precise, non-contact measurement. The technology is based on diffraction analysis and does not include any moving mechanics, which avoids maintenance. The claimed mean time between failures (MTBF) – the average time after which a device of this series shows a repairable defect – amounts to 15 years. A special feature of the larger systems, Laser 2030 XY to Laser 2300 XY, is the swivelling gauge head, which can be

› Sikora’s X-Ray 2200 measurement device

folded upwards from the working area, if necessary. This also protects the gauge head from dirt and water drops falling into the measuring area. Laser 2300 XY is able to adapt to very large product diameters, as increasingly demanded by the hose and tube industry.

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N ovember /D ecember 2007