PanelProfiler
PanelProfiler - Non contact panel thickness measurement




Overview
The Panel Profiler is a non-contact laser-based system designed for measuring the thickness of panels in-process during manufacture. It is suitable for all type of panel products such as MDF, OSB, chipboard, hardboard, HPL, plywood, rigid foam insulation panels and many other types of panel products. Being non-contact reduces maintenance costs and ensures dependable accurate measurement.
Quick Spec
Number of tracks | Thickness range | Resolution | Measuring Rate |
1 – 24 | 0.1 – 200 mm | 0.01 mm | 2000 Hz |
Operating Principle
The thickness is measured by a pair (or pairs) of PreciCura sensors which use the principle of optical laser triangulation and measure directly to almost any material or surface. They are connected together in differential thickness mode. Multiple sensors are used to measure at different locations across the width of the panel.
Applications
- Thickness profile of MDF, OSB, PB board at the exit of the press
- Board thickness on entry to sanding machine
- Final board thickness at the exit of the sander
- Non-contact thickness measurement of cement based panels
- On-line thickness measurement of insulation materials
- Thickness measurement of plywood during manufacturing process
- Non-contact thickness of fire retardant panels
- Non-contact thickness of rigid foam insulation panels
PreciCura technology
The Panel Profiler uses LIMAB’s standard PreciCura laser triangulation sensors which are a product of over 25 years experience of producing precision laser sensors. PreciCura lasers are robust, rugged yet very accurate and stable and are at the heart of the Panel Profiler.
Temperature stabilised mounting frame
To ensure stable and accurate measurement in a factory environment that can vary in temperature LIMAB have developed a unique temperature stable mounting frame. This ensures long-term stability and eliminates the need for frequent calibration.
Hostile environment protection
To enable reliable measurement in dirty environments the Panel Profiler is equipped with an integrated forced air protection system. High volume air is provided by a fan/filter unit supplied with the system and means that maintenance is not required frequently.
Non-contact measurement
The laser measuring principle means that the product is measured without contact. There is no product compression when measuring soft materials and no wear when measuring hard or abrasive products.
Total process control
Continuous in-line monitoring of the product thickness provides total process control allowing the panels to be produced on size reducing scrap and improving plant efficiency. The system provides thickness variation information over the panel, minimum, maximum, averages and trend. Data logging is provided for quality control purposes and to help improve production control.
Software
The software provides a simple graphical interface so that operators can instantly see where problems are developing. Graphs in 2D, 3D and plan view are provided on a panel by panel basis and trend information over time is provided.
Complete package
LIMAB provide a complete turn-key solution, one contractor takes full responsibility. The Panel Profiler includes all the hardware and software needed for any factory installation. LIMAB provide commissioning, training and on-going product support and service.
Non-contact measurement |
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No moving parts |
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Proven system |
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High accuracy & Stability |
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Safe |
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High power air protection system |
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Constructed with standard PreciCura sensors |
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Turn-key solution |
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Sophisticated software |
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Specifications | |
Product thickness range | 0.1 – 200 mm |
Resolution | 0.01 mm |
Repeatability | ± 0.03 mm at 2σ |
Linearity | ± 0.03 mm at 2σ |
Laser measurement rate | 2000 (Hz) |
Laser power | 1 mW |
Laser class | 2 |
Overall dimensions (typical) | 2000 (h) x 1700 (w) x 600 (l) |
Operating system | Windows 7 |
Number of measuring tracks (min, max) | 1-24 |
Electrical power requirements | 230 VAC, 50Hz or 120VAC, 60 Hz) |
What Our Customers Say…
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We needed a reliable and accurate system for measuring our panels we liked LIMAB’s non-contact technology and was our preferred choice. We have been very impressed with the results and this has given gains in production efficiency and product quality. We can highly recommend LIMAB as a supplier. Arsene Toussing – Process Manager |