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.

AP Corp. Selected Druck New England Representative

AP Corp. is delighted to announce that they are now the New England Sales and  Engineering Representative for Druck piezo-resistive pressure sensors and test/calibration instruments.

Druck, a Baker Hughes business, manufactures the high-reliability piezo-resistive pressure sensors and test and calibration instruments known for performing in the most challenging environments. Their products provide customers with the highest performance, stability, quality, accuracy, and quickest response in any environment.

Druck's product line includes pressure sensors,  OEM custom sensors, PACE Pressure Controllers, handheld process calibrators, pressure indicators, test tool instrumentation, and  4Sight2 Calibration Management Software.

The addition of Druck extends AP's offering of high quality, best-in-class, engineered sensor solutions. AP Corp's application expertise and long-standing customer relationships in New England are vital to providing Druck with accelerated sales growth in this territory.

For more information, contact:

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

Distance Measurement for Reflecting Surfaces with Universal Laser Sensor

Plastics, mirrored glass, or metals have highly reflective surfaces and require special laser sensors to measure displacement and distance. Displacement and distance measurements on strongly reflecting surfaces challenge conventional, diffuse reflection laser sensors. 

Laser sensors such as the Micro-Epsilon optoNCDT 1750DR provide a real-time surface compensation feature that controls exposure time that produces stable signals. This type of laser sensor operates on the principle of direct reflection, aligned so that the angle of incidence is equal to the angle of reflection. Proprietary algorithms compensate for the back-scattered, high-intensity light—all of this in a compact design, including an integrated controller (no external control unit is required).

Mounting and wiring are easy. A mounting template enables the user to align the sensor correctly. The laser class 1 rating on which the optoNCDT 1750DR operates is another advantage. Additional safety precautions are not necessary since the emitted laser power does not exceed 390 µW. Users have the choice of an intuitive web interface which can operate the laser sensor from a browser.

For more information in New England, contact AP Corp.

AP Corp.

https://a-pcorp.com

508-351-6200

Do You Have a Production Part Heating Challenge? Get Free Assistance from The LAB

Ambrell's Applications Laboratory, known in the industry as THE LAB, will solve your most challenging heating applications. They will provide recommendations for precision induction heating solutions for parts of every size, shape, and material composition. 

THE LAB will apply their state-of-art testing facility, fully equipped with Ambrell induction heating systems and hundreds of proven coils. You can also interface with their engineers and see first-hand how they design prototype coils and develop innovative, practical solutions to maximize your heating process's efficiency. 

The process is easy. Just follow these three steps:

1. Send THE LAB your parts and process requirements.
2. Their engineers will analyze your process and heat your parts to develop the right solution for your specific application.
3. You will receive your parts back for inspection, as well as a video of the heating process and a laboratory report with a system recommendation.

You have the option to observe testing through Ambrell's Remote Lab Service from the convenience of your office.

If you have old systems that need upgrading, why not find out if using a smaller, more efficient Ambrell induction heating system is the right solution for your process? There are measurable savings in less downtime, higher production throughput, improved energy efficiency, and more.

To learn more 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.

Dynisco Cloud Connect™

With the new Dynisco Cloud Connect™ through Microsoft® Azure – you get a single cloud solution that aggregates all your device(s) data into one place that is secure, reliable, easy to share, with 24/7 support.

The Dynisco Cloud Connect can be used for one product or entire global production lines –whether across the street or across the globe giving you easy access to manage data across the cloud, no matter where it lives. This solution is easily expandable and is even compatible with multiple brands and equipment types, from sensors to melt flow indexers to rheometers. With Dynisco Cloud Connect, you can compare and correlate data between facilities and be able to monitor and adjust parameters in real-time, from a mobile device anywhere in the world, whether working in the field, on the production floor, or in the office. 

For more information about Dynisco products 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.

Which Melt Pressure Sensor Is Good for My Application?

So how do I choose the right melt pressure sensor for my application? 

A sensor is defined through the following specifications:

• Pressure Range
• Process connection
• Electrical output and connection
• Capillary configuration (rigid/flexible)

There are more variables come into play, but let's focus on these four since they are the most critical.

Melt Pressure Sensor Pressure Range

The pressure inside a plastics processing machine can usually be estimated well enough to determine a sensor's good pressure range. The typical working pressure should be within 20%-80% of the sensor's pressure range to balance accuracy and lifetime.

Melt Pressure Sensor Process Connection

For threaded connections in plastics processing, a standard has developed over time, which is the ½"-20UNF thread with a conical sealing face. There might be situations where different thread sizes or a flange connection is required. There are numerous options available from manufacturers, such as Dynisco, to satisfy customer needs regarding the process connection.

Melt Pressure Sensor Electrical Output

A pressure sensor is an electro-mechanical device that converts a mechanical effect (pressure deflects a thin piece of metal) into an electrical signal through a strain gauge. The strain gauge changes its resistance by following the deflection of the metal piece. In the simplest case, the strain gauge signal can be used directly to feed a read-out device to display the pressure.  In order to accommodate industry-standard equipment, such as process control equipment, manufacturers like Dynisco supplies sensors with different amplified output options such as 4-20mA or 0-10V.

Melt Pressure Sensor Capillary Configuration

A typical pressure sensor has a liquid-filled capillary that connects the process-connection diaphragm (which is deflected by the process pressure) and the measuring diaphragm (where the strain gauge is bonded). This capillary is necessary to create a heat barrier, as the strain gauge cannot withstand the typical process temperatures at plastics processing. Also, the sensor's electronics need to be kept away from heat sources as well as possible. To find a suitable mounting location for the electronics, countless combinations of the rigid stem and flexible connection lengths are available.

Other Considerations in choosing a Melt Pressure Sensor:

• Diaphragm materials
• Diaphragm coatings
• Approvals and certifications

For assistance in selecting or applying any plastics molding equipment, contact AP Corp. by calling (508) 351-6200 or visit their website at https://a-pcorp.com.

EASYHEAT Induction Heaters from Ambrell Corporation

EASYHEAT advanced induction heating systems by Ambrell Corporation provide a flameless, non-contact, reliable, compact solution for heating your parts with a quick, clean source of heat. Available in models from 500 Watt to 10 kW, all are ideal for repeatable, energy-focused heating of your parts.

Flameless, non-contact induction heating minimizes energy waste by focusing energy only on the part and zone to be heated. Select and monitor power levels from the front panel LCD and sealed touch pad. Remote power control is available for employing contact inputs, analog inputs or optional serial data port. Easily control the length of the heating cycle with a built-in programmable digital timer.

Download the Ambrell EASYHEAT® 500 Watt to 10 kW Induction Heater Catalog here.

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

New Bench Top Series of Shaker Systems from Sentek Dynamics

The BT Series shakers from Sentek Dynamics are designed for demanding vibration test applications. Typical applications included structural analysis, calibration and testing of smaller assemblies. The BT-100 through BT-400 shakers utilize light weight rare earth magnets in lieu of traditional Alnico magnets. The use of these magnets decreases the total shaker mass to a third of similar size system, making these shakers easy to handle and portable. 

The systems range in size from 100 N (70 lbf) to 1000 N (224 lbf). Systems 400 N (99 lbf) and smaller are permanent magnet shakers and use lightweight rare earth magnets, making these systems easy to handle and portable. There are three versions of the BT Series of shakers: the BT, BT-M and BT-MTH.  

The BT Series is recommended for vibration testing of small assemblies and components. These shakers have armature diameters from 60 mm (2.36 in.) to 120 mm (4.72 in.). The BT-1000 is equipped as standard with Automatic Armature Centering (AAC) and Air-Isolation Feet (AIF).  

The BT-M and BT-MTH Series are our modal shakers lines. BT-M will use standard stingers while the BT-MTH is our through-hole version. On the 100 N and 200 N system the BT-MTH offers over double the displacement. The BT-MTH Series allow you to use piano-wire stingers. The BT-1000-M is ideal for the structural and modal analysis of high-mass structures. The addition of ZPR (electronic zero-point regulation and adjustable suspension stiffness) allows the user to pre-load the structure prior to applying a dynamic load.

The new Sentek Dynamics Bench Top and modal exciters are based upon years of practical experience. These systems all exhibit a high lateral stiffness and high force-to-weight ratio. They are specifically designed to help ensure the best possible performance with minimum setup time. 

Contact AP Corp. regarding any Sentek Dynamics product in New England and Upstate New York. Call us at (508) 351-6200 or visit our website at https://a-pcorp.com.

Micro-Epsilon Laser Profile Scanners: scanCONTROL LLT3000 and 2500

Micro-Epsilon scanCONTROL LLT3000

The scanCONTROL LLT3000 laser profile scanners impress in 2D/3D measurement tasks with high precision and dynamics. With a high resolution sensor matrix and high profile frequency, the scanners are designed for precise profile measurements in dynamic processes.

Micro-Epsilon scanCONTROL 2500

The scanCONTROL 2500 laser scanners are specially designed for industrial measurement tasks. Compact design, versatility and high signal stability result in an excellent price/performance ratio especially for measurement tasks involving large quantities.

Laser profile scanners from Micro-Epsilon are among the highest performing profile sensors with respect to accuracy and measuring rate. Equipped with powerful processors and highly sensitive optical components, these scanners ensure precise profile measurements on nearly any type of surface. While they can be integrated in various environments, the scanners also impress with a compact design which includes an integrated controller.

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

BLH Nobel KIS Beam Load Cell Technology

The BLH Nobel KIS load cell provides unmatched efficiency, is simple to mount, and is highly accurate, even under complex process forces and extreme environmental conditions. Unlike other load cells, KIS works as defined in real-world applications, not just under laboratory conditions. 

KIS Beam technology integrates SR-4 ® strain gages connected as a full Wheatstone bridge that is temperature-compensated and optimized for precision and reliability. And since all KIS Beams are factory-calibrated, installation and set-up are simple and easy without the need for on-site calibration (unless mechanical obstructions prohibit a vessel being "freestanding"). 

The above four-minute video does an excellent job illustrating how the KIS load cell works and what distinguishes KIS from other load cells

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

In-Line Turbidity and Haze Measurement

Photo 1: Equitech's Retro-Reflection Probe

Monitoring turbidity and haze of liquids and sheet is an indicator for product quality. Examples include: polymer extrusion, resins and chemical production. Real-time adjustments of the process parameters are therefore possible through immediate "off-specification" detection.

INTRODUCTION 

Turbidity and haze measurement is a well-accepted technology to check the consistency some production processes. Usually these measurements are performed ‘off-line’.  

The delay between sampling and obtaining the results from the laboratory can be time consuming. A significant disadvantage is that only a single measurement is generated in this time period and the concentration during, before and after the sampling point is unknown.  

With the inline turbidity and haze measurements taking place directly in the process, not only is complete documentation possible, but when variations occur, immediate intervention can take place.

INNOVATION 

The Equispec™ In-line Color Spectrophotometer (ICS) is a high performance instrument designed for use in an industrial pro-cess. Its excellent sensitivity and flexibility make it useful for process applications. The ICS and process probes are designed to be used in high-temperature, high-pressure and corrosive environments. It can be used to analyze  liquids and solids. 

The analyzer supports one or two probes with dedicated lamp compensation channels [all fiber-optic double-beam design]. 

Photo 3: Trend charts of EquiColor Software

TURBIDITY AND HAZE MEASUREMENT 

Equitech’s fiber-optic probes allow for easy access into the process. Equitech offers probes for both turbidity and haze measurements.  This includes insertion/immersion probes (see Photo 1). 

The spectrophotometer is integrated in a NEMA4 box with an industrial computer and touch-screen (see photo 4). The appropriate spectral range is 380-780 nm (resolution 1 nm). The NEMA4 box is made from stainless steel. It is designed and equipped specifically for use in the production environment where the ambient conditions can be dusty, vary in temperature, subject to vibration etc. The box also contains a thermoelectric cooling and heating device to eliminate the influences from ambient temperature by keeping the temperature inside the box at a constant level. 

Photo 2: ICS stainless steel NEMA4 box with touch-screen

INSTALLED APPLICATIONS INCLUDE 

Resin Production, Sheet Production,  Filter Breakthrough, Surfactants 

Turbidity and haze are calculated from the spectral curve,  and displayed as trend charts by the EquiColor™ software (see photo 3). 

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

DOWNLOAD THE PDF HERE