Overview

Basic Specification

Bar Shapes	Bar Dimension mm	Bar Dimension (inch)	Bar Temperature
Round	20-300	0.8-12	0-1200°C / 32-2200°F
Squares	20-250	0.8-10	0-1200°C / 32-2200°F
Rectangulars/Flats	5..250 x 30..250	0.2-10 ×1.2-10	0-1200°C / 32-2200°F
Hexagonal	20-300	0.8-12	0-1200°C / 32-2200°F

Operating Principle

The HotProfiler integrates up to 24 LIMAB PreciCura 1D laser sensors. The PreciCura sensors are based on laser triangulation technology and in the HotProfiler system these sensors are mounted on a wheel which is rotated around the object to be measured. The HotProfiler has a patented and integrated movement compensation algorithm, which makes the measurement accuracy unaffected by vibrations and other movements of the bar.

Applications

• Full profile measurements of hot and cold rolled round, square, rectangular and hex bars, blooms and billets
• Process applications as for example exit of a Kocks block
• Final inspection for quality assurance

Functions

Measuring diameter, ovality, shape and length

In addition to measuring the diameter and the ovality of the tube, the true profile is also accurately measured. As an option there is also the possibility to implement a length measurement using a Doppler velocimeter. The system provides valuable feedback to the overall performance of the tube rolling.

Software

The system provides easy to read real time 2D and 3D profile graphs, numerical values with warning and out-of-tolerance limits indicated so that the operators instantly can see where process issues are developing.

The software is designed for client/server mode with the possibility of connecting up to 10 clients to one server. The client has an operator interface which displays the measurement results in numerical values, in different trend graphs, in 2D cross sections views as well as a 3D graphical view. All measured values are logged to a database, which makes it possible to replay all measurements for different post production analyses and claims. Network TCP/IP is provided to Level 2 and for remote support.

3D presentation

The operator interface includes a 3D presentation of the bar. This feature gives the possibility to rapidly detect rolling mill problems like eccentric or damaged rolls.

3-roll measurements

The HotProfiler measures and communicates all key dimensions, such as GT/DT values, for optimization of rolling lines with 3-roll system

True profile measurements

Diameter measurements of bars have traditionally been performed with cameras or laser micrometer shadow gauges. These type of systems will only perform a correct measurement of the maximum dimension of the object. Shape irregularities like under- and overfills cannot truly be measured. With the HotProfiler system, the true shape of the bar will be measured with high accuracy and good repeatability.

Patented movement compensation

During rolling and transportation, the bar will vibrate and also make random movements. To eliminate measuring errors due to these movements, LIMAB has developed an algorithm that ensures reliable measurement irrespective of the material presentation.

End user certificates

Automatically generates end user certificate via level 2, containing measured key values of each individual tube.

Calibration

The HotProfiler is delivered with a calibration tool for the system calibration. The calibration procedure takes 10-15 minutes to perform

Automatic height adjustment

The HotProfiler will automatically adjust its height position so that the pass-line of the bar always will be centered in the gauge, independently of the bar dimension

Maintenance position

The HotProfiler can be equipped with a sliding table on rails which makes it possible to take the system out of the production line for maintenance and calibration

Forced air cooling

The HotProfiler is delivered with a forced air cooling system that makes installation simple, reduces the running costs and keeps the internal temperature of the gauge stable. In addition the air is used to keep the optics clean eliminating regular maintenance.

Turn-key solution

LIMAB can provide a complete turn-key solution. The HotProfiler includes all hardware, LIMAB-made sensors and software needed for any mill installation. LIMAB provides commissioning, training and on-going product support and service.

Benefits

True profile measurements

Diameter measurements of bars have traditionally been performed with cameras or laser micrometer shadow gauges. These type of systems will only perform a correct measurement of the maximum dimension of the object. Shape irregularities like under- and overfills as well as corner radiuses and concavity/convexity cannot truly be measured. With the HotProfiler system, the true shape of the bar, bloom and billet will be measured with high accuracy and good repeatability.

Full cross section

Complete 360° scanning of the circumference.

Mill setup time reduced

Mill setup time at product change dramatically reduced. Less number of test bars before correct size.

Improved safety

Eliminates hazardous manual inspection of hot bars by operators

Software 3 point rollers

Software module to provide GT/DT values at exit of Kocks block

Rugged design

The HotProfiler is designed for the harsh environment in a steel mill, which includes a careful selection of the gauge material, effective air-purging and cooling.

LIMAB produced laser sensors

LIMAB has been developing laser based, optical triangulation sensors for more than 30 years. The HotProfiler integrates our own produced state-of-the-art sensor, the PreciCura. The PreciCura is a robust and very accurate sensor, available in several versions depending on the application. It is also stocked at LIMAB for fast spare part delivery.

End user certificates

Automatically generates end user certificate via level 2, containing measured key values of each individual bar.

Specifications

Bar size range
Round	20-300 mm / 0.8-12”
Square	20-300 mm / 0.8-10”
Hex bar	20-300 mm / 0.8-10”
Rectangles/Flats	5..250 x 30..250 mm / 0.2-10 x 1.2-10”
Larger sizes available on request
Number of laser sensors	8 – 24
Sensor measurement rate	2000 (Hz)
Laser class	Laser Class 3R according to EN 60825-1:2014 and 21 CFR 1040.10 and 1040.11 except for deviations pursuant to Laser Notice No. 50, dated June 24, 2007.
Cooling air	2000 (m³/h)
Cooling air temperature	10-30 (°C) (50 – 86°F)
Gauge dimensions	2000 (H) x 1700 (W) x 600 (L) (79 x 67 x 24”)
Electrical power requirements	230 VAC, 50Hz, 16A or 120VAC, 60 Hz)