TPT November 2008

T echnology U pdate

Online process analysers for automated high volume quality control

used to quickly and non- destructively perform multi- element analysis on solids, liquids and slurries – for example to verify alloy grade and chemistry. The rugged process analysers are designed and engineered for 24/7 operation in the harsh industrial environment of manufacturing plants. They can endure high levels of vibration, electromagnetic and acoustical noise. They offer a

Tube and pipe manufacturers use many different metals and alloys in production lines. To eliminate liabilities, avoid material mix-ups and meet customer requirements, they must compare products against acceptable alloy specifications. Particularly in the aerospace, petrochemical, nuclear and other demanding industries, the consequences of processing or fabricating with the wrong alloy material can be catastrophic, resulting in product failure, personal injuries, fatalities, liability claims and eventual loss of business. To protect their business, high volume manufacturers need a fast, non-destructive method that checks each piece prior to shipping. Fox-IQ online tube analysers from Innov-X Systems offer these capabilities in an easy to use and reliable solution. The compact system integrates easily with existing or new processes, and provides continuous online measurements to optimise processes for increased productivity and improved product quality. The systems perform fully automated online analysis for 100 per cent high-volume process control. X-ray fluorescence (XRF) is a proven analytical technique commonly

 The Fox-IQ online tube analyser features a compact design, allowing it to be integrated into most existing operations

This PLC driven machine offers an optional PC interface that enables the user to import a STEP file right from CAD directly to the bender without typing in a single data point. This capability not only saves time but also cuts down on programming errors. Winton’s eCNC line of mandrel benders is suitable for job-shops and OEMs, providing an increase in productivity, reduced cycle time, and improved quality. The series consists of 20mm, 30mm, and 50mm machines with a tubing range from 1mm OD to 50mm OD. combination of speed, accuracy and cost effectiveness, with worldwide service. Long-term service contracts are available to assure high levels of system up-time. The Fox-IQ systems have several modes of operation. Pass/fail mode is designed for high-throughput alloy sorting and quality control. All sorting is done by comparing a sample to an operator-selected reference fingerprint. The system will provide a pass or fail result in just a few seconds. The system comes with a standard reference library of common alloy fingerprints, and users can add their own

(up to 300 more) using a simple, one- minute procedure. Once the unit has been taught a fingerprint, it will not need periodic recalibration. Positive material identification (PMI) quickly identifies an alloy in seconds by matching the spectral signature of the unknown sample to spectral signatures of reference standards stored in the library. The chemistry of the alloy is then calculated using stored elemental assays, with the identified grade as reference standard. Specific materials can be simply and quickly added to the library. Analytical mode utilises a fundamental parameters (FP) algorithm to determine elemental chemistry. The FP calibration is done at the factory, and requires no user setup or recalibration. The FP method used in analytical mode is suitable for applications that require analysis of proprietary or uncommon alloys, monitoring chemistry of tramp elements, and a monitoring chemistry during processing. The analytical mode can identify an unknown material in approximately 5 seconds, with increased precision for longer test times. The Innov-X Fox-IQ system consists of three major industry hardened components. The probe head assembly (PHA) contains the x-ray tube, detector, and front-end digital signal processing electronics. The PHA can be pre-calibrated, and its modular design allows exchange in minutes. The electrical interface assembly supports an external sample trigger input, and provides a pass/fail indicator signal that can be used to trigger a ‘kicker’ or other line equipment like PLCs to accept or reject the sample, based on the analysis result. The user interface computer runs Innov-X PC

CNC bending directly from CAD to bender Winton Machine, USA, has introduced its newest rotary draw-bending machine. The RD30eCNC is an economical and easy-to-use 3-axis CNC rotary draw bender.

An optional PC interface allows for programming and data storage. Winton Machine Company – USA Fax : +1 770 831 6459 Email : gwinton@wintonmachine.com • Website : www.wintonmachine.com  The RD30eCNC 3 axis CNC rotary draw bender

24 ›

N ovember 2008

www.read-tpt.com