Micro-Epsilon Introduces scanCONTROL AIK Adapter for Cognex® VisionPro® 2D/3D Analysis Software

Cognex® VisionPro® 2D/3D analysis software is a powerful computer vision software developed by Cognex® Corporation and specifically designed for use in manufacturing and industrial automation applications. This software combines 2D and 3D vision technologies to analyze objects, parts, and components comprehensively.

The software utilizes sophisticated algorithms to analyze images and detect defects or anomalies in manufactured goods. It can accurately measure product dimensions, angles, and shapes and detect even minor defects, such as scratches, cracks, and other imperfections. The software can also compare components and ensure they meet specific quality standards.

Micro-Epsilon released their scanCONTROL AIK adapter for VisionPro® in response to Integrator requests for compatibility with better-performing and lower-cost sensors. Now Integrators can switch directly to scanCONTROL sensors without problems! 

The Micro-Epsilon scanCONTROL AIK adapter for Cognex® VisionPro® (a small software tool) is available for download for free from Micro-Epsilon's download area. The AIK adapter is developed closely with Cognex® and supports all current scanCONTROL models (LLT25xx, 29xx, 30x2, 30x0).

For more information in New England, contact AP Corp. Call (508) 351-6200 or visit https://a-pcorp.com.

Induction Heating Systems and Solutions for Industry

Induction heating works based on the principle of electromagnetic induction, which is a phenomenon discovered by Michael Faraday in 1831. The basic idea behind electromagnetic induction is that when you place a conductor in a changing magnetic field, you create an electromotive force (EMF), which induces an electric current. This current, in turn, generates heat due to resistance. 

Passing a high-frequency alternating current through an induction coil creates a changing magnetic field around the coil. When a conductive material, such as metal, is placed inside the magnetic field, the material produces eddy currents due to the changing magnetic field. These eddy currents generate heat based upon the material's electrical resistance. The frequency of the alternating current is a crucial factor in induction heating. The higher the frequency, the deeper the heat is generated in the material and the faster the heating process. Typically, frequencies in the range of 100-500kHz apply to induction heating. The heating process is controlled by adjusting the strength and frequency of the magnetic field and by controlling the position of the induction coil relative to the heated material. Controlling these parameters makes it possible to heat the material precisely and uniformly without heating the surrounding area.

To summarize, induction heating generates eddy currents in a conductive material through electromagnetic induction, which produces heat due to the material's resistance. Precise heating is a function of adjusting the magnetic field's strength, frequency, and position.

Industrial induction heating systems are used for various purposes in manufacturing, like surface hardening, brazing, welding, melting, and forging, among others.

Examples of industries that use induction heating in their processes are:

• Automotive industry - for engine parts' surface hardening and brazing fuel lines.
• Aerospace industry - for welding titanium components, heat treating blades and vanes, and brazing aluminum components.
• Metal fabrication industry - for forging, hardening, and welding of steel parts.
• Jewelry industry - for melting gold and silver alloys to make jewelry.
• Energy industry - for heating tubes and pipes in heat exchangers and boilers.
• Medical industry - for sterilizing medical instruments and welding stainless steel components.
• Electronic industry - for soldering and brazing of electronic components and assemblies.

Industrial induction heating systems are versatile and efficient heat sources with various applications across various industries. They provide fast, controlled, and uniform heating without requiring direct contact with the heated material, making them an attractive option for many applications.

Ambrell manufactures induction heating solutions for almost any application. Systems are available from 1 kW to 500 kW with various frequency options. Ambrell also offers an array of work head choices and optional accessories such as water cooling systems, induction heating software, and flexible induction coils.

For more information about Ambrell products in New England, contact AP Corp.

https://a-pcorp.com

(508) 351-6200

The Importance of Portable Pressure Calibrators for Industrial Instrumentation Technicians

Portable pressure calibrators are important for industrial instrumentation technicians because they allow them to accurately and efficiently calibrate pressure measuring devices, such as pressure gauges, transmitters, and switches, in the field. This is especially important in industries where process control and safety are critical, such as oil and gas, chemical processing, and power generation.

Accurate pressure measurement is essential for maintaining process control and ensuring the safety of personnel and equipment. Portable pressure calibrators allow technicians to calibrate pressure measuring devices on site, ensuring that they are properly calibrated and able to accurately measure pressure. This helps to ensure that the process is operating within the desired range and reduces the risk of equipment failure or process upsets.

In addition, portable pressure calibrators are often used in field service and maintenance applications, where it is not practical to bring the pressure measuring device back to a calibration laboratory. By using a portable calibrator, technicians can quickly and easily calibrate the device on site, reducing downtime and improving efficiency.

Overall, portable pressure calibrators are an essential tool for industrial instrumentation technicians, as they allow them to accurately calibrate pressure measuring devices and ensure the safety and reliability of process control systems.

For more information about Druck products in New England, contact AP Corp.

https://a-pcorp.com

(508) 351-6200

AP Corp is Pleased to Announce Our Appointment as Hi-Technique’s Exclusive Authorized New England Representative

Hi-Techniques has been an industry pioneer in High-Performance DAQ Systems for four decades. The company specializes in transient recorders, data acquisition systems, and high-resolution digital oscilloscope equipment for various applications in various industries, including Military & Aerospace, Transportation, High Voltage, and Power & Energy. Hi-Techniques is laser-focused, supplying their clients with items of the finest quality and most up-to-date technology at affordable prices.

AP Corp. is the premier manufacturers' representative company in New England and Upstate New York, providing their clients with cutting-edge measurement and control solutions. AP Corporation, established in 1959, supports customers in many industries and marketplaces through superior application support by knowledgeable and well-trained Sales Engineers.

AP Corp.

https://a-pcorp.com

(508) 351-6200

Provide Your Field Technicians A Safer, More Compact, and Efficient Portable Pressure Calibrator

Without the proper equipment, pressure calibration can be challenging.

The men and women who do it endure piercing cold and scorching heat. Work occurs on offshore rigs, in enormous refineries, along massive pipelines, and pharmaceutical plants. Field techs climb ladders in the wind, trek to remote sites in the snow, and peer at gauges in the sun. Instrument techs keep the world functioning. The gear must stay up.

Modern calibrators may not help much. The devices are sometimes ill-equipped for the environment, have a small pressure range, are challenging to operate in confined spaces, or are hard to read in bright light.

The Druck DPI610E keeps the simple design and other appealing qualities that helped fuel the DPI610's popularity, but it also delivers more. The DPI610E is lightweight and straightforward to operate. It has a touch screen operated while wearing gloves. Aside from the screen, a row of buttons that a technician can use when working in frigid conditions with their hands encased in thick gloves. 

The DPI610E operates in practically every condition. From the chill of winter to the seething heat. The device is intrinsically safe, which means it cannot create enough heat, energy, or spark to trigger an explosion in a hazardous environment, and it can contain a blast if one occurs. The DPI610E gives specialists the absolute peace of mind they require to successfully accomplish their complex, crucial tasks.

DOWNLOAD THE DPI610E APPLICATION BROCHURE FROM THIS LINK

For more information about Druck products in New England, contact AP Corp.

https://a-pcorp.com

(508) 351-6200

Supply Chain Reliability for Pressure Sensors

Massive disruptions to global supply networks began with the global pandemic in March 2020. The troubles swiftly expanded to worldwide manufacturing, particularly those products requiring silicon chips, semiconductors, and other digital and electronic components. Pressure sensor producers, for example, are experiencing extraordinarily long lead times on all sensors due to the supply chain issue. 

Despite global chip scarcity and the impact of supply chain restrictions, Druck has continuously expanded its production capacity to satisfy explosive demand for its pressure sensors.

The UNIK 5000 is a high-performance configurable solution to pressure measurement employing modular design and lean manufacturing techniques. Based on micro-machined silicon technology and analog circuitry, the combination enables best-in-class performance for stability, low power, and frequency response. The UNIK 5000 platform allows you to quickly build up your sensor to match your precise needs and configure a specific solution to your pressure measurement requirements. Lead times for the UNIK 5000 are still maintained at 3-4 weeks! 

For more information about Druck products in New England, contact AP Corp.

https://a-pcorp.com

(508) 351-6200

The surfaceCONTROL 3D 2500 Snapshot Sensor for Surface Inspection of Large Objects

The Micro-Epsilon surfaceCONTROL 3D sensor is ideally suited to the automated inline inspection of geometry, shapes, and surfaces on diffuse reflecting surfaces. The 3D snapshot sensors work according to the fringe projection principle, which allows direct 3D measurement of components. The sensor includes a large measuring field and a high measuring range depth with z-axis repeatability of up to 3.0 μm. Three models cover different measuring areas. 

Captured images transfer to the external SC2500 controller and are processed quickly into 3D data via the Gigabit Ethernet interfaces. The 2D/3D Gateway II supports EtherNet/IP, PROFINET, and EtherCAT connections. 3DInspect, DefMap3D, and Inspection Tools are powerful software tools that enable precise 3D measurements and surface inspection. GigE Vision compatibility also allows easy integration into third-party image processing software. The comprehensive SDK for customer software integration rounds off the software package.

surfaceCONTROL 3D Sensor Features:

• Large objects max. 650 x 495 mm
• High measuring range depth up to 300 mm
• Acquisition time from 0.5 s
• Highest precision up to 3.0 μm
• Digital interfaces (via controller 2500): GigE Vision/GenICam
• Digital interfaces (via 2D/3D gateway): Gigabit Ethernet (GigE Vision / GenICam) / USB2.0 / PROFINET / EtherCAT / EtherNet/IP 

surfaceCONTROL 3D Sensor Application Examples:

• 3D inspection of geometry, shape detection and surface inspection
• Automation, production and process monitoring as well as quality control
• Non-contact measurement of diffuse reflective surfaces in the Stop&Go process
• Shape, position and surface inspection

For more information about Micro-Epsilon Products in New England contact:

AP Corp.

https://a-pcorp.com

(508) 351-6200

Commissioning a Dynisco Pressure Sensor Using the Dynisco 1490 Panel Indicator

Polymer manufacturing equipment such as extruders and injection molding machines are outfitted with various sensors, which allow the operators to monitor process variables, maintain safety, and avoid downtime and product output.

Dynisco manufactures precise pressure measurement and control devices that allow operators to monitor process variables, maintain safety, and avoid downtime during product output. This video will demonstrate each step of the pressure sensor commissioning process, including unpacking and wiring the sensor and setting parameter requirements for system operation.

For over 60 years, Dynisco has provided precision pressure measurement and control devices for all manner of plastic manufacturing equipment, which end-users rely on.

This video will teach you how to commission a pressure sensor with a Dynisco model 1490 indication device. The technician will offer guidance through each step of the pressure sensor commissioning process, from taking the sensor out of the box to wiring the sensor with the instrument and finally setting the parameter requirements for system operation.

This Video Covers:

• Introduction
• Unpacking and Examining the Pressure Sensor
• Selecting the Cable Assembly
• Unpacking and Wiring the Instrument
• Connecting the Sensor Cable Assembly to the Instrument
• Connecting the Cable Assembly to the Pressure Sensor
• Supplying Power and Setting Parameters on the Instrument
• Calibration of the Pressure Sensor with Instrumentation 

For more information about Dynisco products in New England and Upstate New York contact:

AP Corp.

https://a-pcorp.com

(508) 351-6200

Choose Druck for Supply Chain Confidence

Since the pandemic, supply chain disruptions have posed a significant threat to the global economy. Factory closures and lockdowns in China and several other nations, labor shortages, strong demand for commodities, logistics network disruptions, and capacity limits have resulted in significant delivery times. Manufacturers have had to make tough choices, even relinquishing agency approvals on whole product lines.

Druck maintains regular lead times on pressure instruments and has shortened lead times from 4 weeks down to 3 to meet manufacturers' demands, particularly those facing supply chain disruptions. 

According to a poll done by the National Association of Manufacturers, 36% of companies suffer supply chain disruptions, with items arriving late or not at all. Druck works closely with its supply chain to maintain a 3-4 week delivery on the UNIK 5000 series. 

As firms look for alternative suppliers, Druck demonstrates their dependability as a domestic pressure instrument supplier, serving critical industries.

For more information about Druck products in New England, contact AP Corp.

https://a-pcorp.com

(508) 351-6200

The Druck PACE CM3 Pressure Controller

AP Corp presents the Druck PACE CM3, a new custom-built system where the fastest pressure controller, PACE, and Druck's most accurate reference control module, CM3, are combined into one powerful, high-precision pressure measurement and control solution. PACE CM3 is part of a new generation of high precision pressure controllers from Druck. Using TERPS technology at the core, delivers an unprecedented level of performance and accuracy.

For more information about Druck products in New England, contact AP Corp.

https://a-pcorp.com

(508) 351-6200

Sensuron - Distributed Measurement Using Fiber Optic Sensing

Sensuron provides intrinsic fiber optic sensing technology, using the fiber optic cable as the sensor. There are three generations of intrinsic fiber optic sensors: point fiber bragg grating (FBG) based sensors, scattering based sensors, and spatially continuous FBG based sensors. Scattering techniques use fully distributed measurements, whereas FBG techniques can use a small number of sensing points or be fully distributed, depending on how the system interprets the signal from the sensing element. 

FBGs, manufactured into the fiber's core, act like tiny mirrors. Each grating reflects a portion of the signal to the system as light travels down the fiber. The system detects and interprets changes in the returning signal to provide accurate strain and temperature measurements. The majority of FBG-based systems have a few sensing points along each fiber. While this multiplexing capability improves legacy technology, it still does not provide the sensor density required for monitoring continuous distributions. Precision, dynamic testing, and high-speed data acquisition are advantages of point FBG sensors. 

Scattering techniques do not use FBGs at all instead of relying on flaws in the fiber optic cable to obtain readings. There are three types of scattering technologies used in sensing systems today, each with its own set of capabilities. In general, distributed data and long sensing lengths benefit scattering-based fiber optic sensing systems. They are, however, limited to static operation due to low data fidelity, prolonged data acquisition rates on the order of minutes, and susceptibility to vibration. 

Sensuron employs a method that combines the advantages of point FBG sensors and scattering-based systems. Sensuron uses FBGs as the sensing element in their fiber but inscribes them continuously along its length. This process, including the signal interpretation technique, enables their platforms to collect spatially continuous data while maintaining the precision, dynamic testing, and high acquisition rates provided by FBGs. Engineers benefit from accurate measurements of full strain fields, temperature gradients, and other parameters in both static and dynamic environments. Sensuron's platforms can also measure internal and applied loads, deflection, 3D shape, and liquid level using the distributed strain data provided by the fiber.

For more information about Sensuron in New England and Upstate New York contact AP Corp. Call (508) 351-6200 or visit https://a-pcorp.com.

Summary of Features for Ambrell's EKOHEAT® with VPA Technology™

The EKOHEAT product family integrates Ambrell’s exclusive Versatile Performance Architecture (VPA). This technology breakthrough in design architecture, which includes an all-new innovative feature set, provides more versatility than any other induction heating system available today — all while delivering exceptional product performance.

Auto-Scan Capability

While an Ambrell Applications Laboratory will test your application and determine the necessary frequency, you may decide to take on additional applications later. If so, Auto-Scan will scan your application, auto-set the starting frequency and recommend RF setup parameters. If your application is outside of your EKOHEAT VPA model’s capabilities it will even offer recommendations.

High Resolution RF Output

The EKOHEAT VPA displayed RF output is the power actually delivered to the workhead. Resolution is better than 0.05% of full scale.

Universal Printed Circuit Boards

Regardless of system size and frequency, all EKOHEAT VPA products use common printed circuit boards (PCBs). A single board set addresses multiple EKOHEAT VPA systems, minimizing your inventory and eliminating model specific versions.

Industrial Ethernet Communication Compatibility

Industrial and Automation environment networking is fully supported using our chosen gateway that include CIPs (Common Industrial Protocols) such as EthernetIP, Modbus/TCP, and PROFINET protocols.

Easy-to-Use Touch Panel

The front touch panel display will allow you to easily adjust key operating parameters, change languages and read system diagnostics.

Soft Start Circuitry

AC power will not be disrupted when switching on the power to your EKOHEAT VPA power supply thanks to this feature. It eliminates the risk of tripping up other equipment when a power supply is turned on.

Universal Application Setup

The EKOHEAT VPA RF transformer accommodates worldwide voltages and provides the same output voltage. An application conducted in Europe uses the same application setup in the United States.

Two Remote Inputs

Added versatility is provided using a second remote input. Additional process variables, such as temperature can be measured, displayed, recorded and played back with the associated generator parameters.

Application Record and Playback

This feature enables you to record your heat cycle – for up to five weeks – and play it back. The benefit is that you can optimize your application and run it in the most efficient manner.

Ability to Add Power

All EKOHEAT VPA systems have the ability to work together. If you install a 250 kW system and realize later that you need 375 kW, just add a 125 kW system and they will work together seamlessly to deliver 375 KW.

RoHs Compliant

EKOHEAT VPA systems are RoHs compliant, meaning they are free of hazardous materials.

For more information about Ambrell products in New England, contact AP Corp. Call (508) 351-6200 or visit https://a-pcorp.com.

Cost Effective, Speedy Force Calibration System from BLH Nobel

A BLH Nobel customer's manufacturing process included multiple critical tanks that required regular weight calibration. The largest, a reactor, weighs 60 tons. Traditionally, they calibrated the vessels by filling them with water, a laborious and expensive process. It took a week for each tank.  Aside from filling the tanks, each must be emptied and rinsed. Finally, calibration required thorough drying before resuming production. 

BLH Nobel developed a method to elevate the vessels and read the weight change at various stages of the process. This video demonstrates that method.

BLH Nobel's solution allows the calibration of a weighing vessel, silo, or tank in a fraction of the time compared to using flowmeter or weighbridge calibration. BLH Nobel jacks the tank using hydraulics instead of loading with weights or flowmeter. Typically they measure the result in several points and verify the weighing result. BLH Nobel's method is often carried out without modifying the existing frame or structure, as most already have a suitable jacking point at each load cell.

For more information about this weighing calibration process or any BLH Nobel products in New England, contact AP Corp. Call (508) 351-6200 or visit https://a-pcorp.com.

The Druck DPI705E Series Handheld Pressure Indicators

The Druck DPI 705E Series of handheld pressure and optional temperature indicators combine tough and rugged design with accurate and reliable measurements.

Compact and robust, the DPI 705E Series is designed for single handed operation and provides many essential features required for routine maintenance and system troubleshooting.

DPI705E Series Handheld Pressure Indicator Features

• 48 pressure ranges from ±25 mbar to 1,400 bar (±1.69 psi to 20,000 psi / 2.5 KPa to 140 MPa)
• Total 1 year uncertainty down to 0.05% full scale (FS) over temperature range of -10°C to +50°C
• Integral calibration record with calibration due count-down display
• Rugged, handheld design with backlit high-contrast display
• Leak test, tare, maximum/minimum and filter
• Hazardous Area (Intrinsically safe) version available
• Optional remote plug and play pressure and Resistance Temperature Detector (RTD) sensors
• Optional pneumatic and hydraulic hand pumps

For more information in New England, contact AP Corp. Call (508) 351-6200 or visit https://a-pcorp.com.

Special Offer - Up To 35% Off a Druck DPI620PC or DPI620SPC Package

The Druck DPI 620 is a sophisticated multi-function calibrator and HART/Foundation Fieldbus communicator combined to provide a world-class pressure measurement and generation. For usage in hazardous places, ATEX and IECEx approved intrinsically safe versions are available. 

Druck is offering a special promotion. Get 35% off when you purchase a DPI620PC or DPI620SPC package.

A DPI620PC package is defined as one of the following:

• Safe Area - PN DPI620PC-2barg, DPI620PC-7barg, DPI620PC-20barg
• Hazardous Area - PN DPI620SPC-2barg, DPI620SPC-7barg, DPI620SPC-20barg
• HART capability, Safe Area - PN DPI620PC- H-2barg, DPI620PC-H-7barg, DPI620PC-H-20barg
• HART Hazardous Area - PN DPI620SPC-H-2barg, DPI620SPC-H-7barg, DPI620SPC-H-20barg

All include Druck’s latest 4Sight2 software for up to 35% off the combined list price of the individual products.

For more information in New England, contact AP Corp. Call (508) 351-6200 or visit https://a-pcorp.com.

Part Cleaning Demonstration with the Dynisco PolyClean

This video demonstrated how to clean parts, in this case pressure sensors, using the PolyClean fluidized temperature bath.

Dynisco’s PolyClean is a fluidized temperature bath that will clean parts and tooling  2 to 3 times faster and safer than traditional cleaning methods, such as ovens. Dynisco’s fluidized bath system is air¬controlled with advanced PID temperature controller for optimal thermal performance. The system uses aluminum oxide sand (heated up to 1112°F) and air to surround the part or tooling. The “sand” will gently breakdown the polymer without damaging the part or tooling.

For more information about Dynisco in New England and Upstate New York contact AP Corp. Call (508) 351-6200 or visit https://a-pcorp.com.

Webinar: Components of a Successful Noise Monitoring Program - June 16, 2021

AP Corp. is pleased to provide details for an upcoming webinar presented by OHD (Occupational Health Dynamics) and SVANTEK on implementing and operating a successful sound monitoring program.

In this 1-hour webinar, OHD's Certified Industrial Hygienist, Dr. Stephanie Lynch, will go over regulations, best practices, common downfalls, and much more when successfully building and enhancing your companies noise monitoring program. 

Stephanie Lynch is a Certified Occupational Hearing Conservationist and has over 15 years of Occupational Safety and Industrial Hygiene experience. Her doctoral dissertation research involved the collection of personal noise dosimetry and whole-body vibration measurements. Her research carries into the real world in manufacturing and military applications.

SVANTEK is the leading brand of sound and vibration meters for occupational health and safety, environmental noise, human vibration, and building vibration.

To register, visit this link (https://info.ohdusa.com/noisemonitoringwebinar). 

Dynisco Polyclean Fluidized Baths

Cost-Effective, Fast, and Safe Way to Clean Various Plastic Processing Components

The Dynisco PolyClean Fluidized Temperature Baths come in three models and offer a cost-effective, fast, and safe way to clean various plastic processing components. PolyClean Fluidized Temperature Baths are applied in any polymer manufacturing or laboratory facility that needs minimal operator interaction and a low risk of harm to essential design requirements of a part during the cleaning process. 

The PolyClean 6L Fluidized Temperature Bath is ideal for cleaning small tooling from laboratory extruders or injection molding machines. 

The PolyClean 12L cleans extrusion tooling and other forms of hardware, forms parts, calibrates and tests various sensors and systems, heat treats metals and heats reactors, coils, flasks, and containers. 

The  26L PolyClean has similar functions and benefits to the PolyClean 12L, but its 26" deep basket allows it to clean larger components than the PolyClean 12L

For more information in New England and Upstate New York, contact AP Corp by calling (508) 351-6200 or visiting https://a-pcorp.com.

Now Representing Sensuron - Ultrafine Distributed and Continuous Strain & Temperature Sensing

AP Corp is pleased to announce its selection as Sensuron's New England and Upstate New York Authorized Representative.

ABOUT SENSURON
Starting as an informal partnership with NASA and a formal licensing agreement in 2011, Sensuron began developing off-the-shelf fiber optic sensing systems and then designing cutting-edge fiber optic sensing platforms that allowed companies to consolidate their testing and measurement solutions. Sensuron is now a leading global provider of distributed strain and temperature sensing platforms for applications across industries and is now expanding to liquid-level and 2D deflection.

Sensuron's fiber optic sensing technology enables engineers to perform structural testing, design optimization, structural health monitoring, thermal mapping, and shape sensing with an efficient, robust, and simple-to-use tool.

AP Corp is proud to be representing Sensuron in all of New England and Upstate New York. For more information call (508) 351-6200 or visit this web page.

AP Corp.
One Tara Boulevard
Suite 200
Nashua, NH 03062
www.a-pcorp.com
508-351-6200 (office)

Combat the Hazards of Plastics Screw and Barrel Wear

This post is abstracted from an excellent article from Plastics Technology Online
written by Jim Callari. Read the full text here.

Industrial-grade screw and barrel wear cuts throughput speeds, producing scrap before shutting down. For the first time, technology is making progress in unraveling the mystery of screw and barrel wear. 

There has been a lot of injection molding machine innovation in the past year. And now, Glycon Corp. has the technology to test wear within the plasticating device. Glycon is in the first phase of rolling this technology out in the industry. It will concentrate on extrusion and blow molding. 

With this capability, they have developed the technology to calculate the rate of wear and predict future wear. This data determines the most cost-effective time to replace these components.

Glycon has been working on measuring wear since 1986 gained their first patent as Great Lakes Feedscrews. The company expanded the invention to include measuring barrel wear and was awarded additional patents in 2006, 2007, 2008, and 2019. 

Wear and tear challenges are well documented over the years, and plastic processors know the symptoms. Many machine operators compensate by making changes to the screw speed or temperature settings. The problem is, both of these changes would ultimately result in lower efficiency and higher scrap rates. 

The new system called EMT (short for Electronic Measurement and Tracking), includes Glycon's flite-scan eddy-current sensors mounted in one or more positions within a SmartBarrel. These barrels also have SmartPorts, another innovative technology offered by Glycon. 

Measurements will be conducted routinely at the processor's plant by field technicians using a Flite-Scan sensor. Several eddy-current sensors were tried over the years. Multiple sensor manufacturers were collaborated with, but all ran into failure at high temperatures in the plasticating units. 

Micro-Epsilon, a leading manufacturer of sensors that measure displacement, distance, position, vibration, dimension and thickness, was the eventual choice because their sensors proved much more robust and provided reliable readings up to 600 F. 

The EMT system is not only to analyze the data to determine the optimum time to replace or repair worn screws or barrels to optimize productivity but also to relate the wear to:

• Materials of screw/barrel construction.
• Screw/barrel alignment. 
• Polymers being processed.
• Impact of abrasive fillers.
• Performance related to wear, including production rates, cycle times, energy consumption, melting rates, head pressures and melt temperatures.

The Glycon EMT system's advantages are that it provides precise measurement of the wear on the OD of the feedscrew and the barrel's ID and its simplicity and cost-effectiveness. It allows maintenance personnel to plan to measure intervals and to schedule changeouts at convenient times based upon wear-rate data rather than 'running to failure' and having to run inefficiently or not at all.

For more information about the new Glycon technology in New England and Upstate New York, contact AP Corp. Call them at (508) 351-6200 or visit their website at https://a-pcorp.com.