Overview

Basic Specification (typical)

Strip width mm (inch)	Strip thickness mm (inch)
700-1700 (29-67)	1.5-25 (0.06-1)
Slab width mm (inch)	Slab thickness mm (inch)
600-2500 (24-98)	40-350 (1.6-13.8)
Heavy plate width mm (inch)	Heavy plate thickness mm (inch)
1300-3200 (51-126)	5-200 (0.2-8)

Operating Principle

The ThicknessProfiler integrates a selectable number of LIMAB PreciCura laser sensors. The thickness and the width are measured by a pair (or pairs) of PreciCura laser sensors, which use the principle of optical triangulation. Almost any material and surface can be measured without being affected by color variations. Sensors are connected in differential thickness or width mode, to ensure high measurement accuracy even with heavily vibrating material. Multiple measurement tracks are used to measure at different locations across the material width.

System versions

ThicknessProfiler

1-10 fixed tracks standard system

ThicknessProfiler-TR

Traversing for full cross profiles

ThicknessProfiler-WA

Width adjustable, motorized positioning of outer tracks

ThicknessProfiler-ST

Single track, with C-frame version

Applications

• Cold strip thickness and width measurement in pickling or slitting line
• Cold strip thickness and width measurement in decoiling before roll forming process for welded tubes
• Slab and heavy plate thickness and width measurement at quality inspection

Functions

Software

The system provides easy to read real-time 2D and 3D profile graphs, numerical values with a 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 slab. This feature gives the possibility to rapidly detect caster problems like mold wear or cooling problems.

Forced air cooling

The ThicknessProfiler 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.

Temperature stabilized mounting frames

To ensure stable and accurate measurement in a plant environment that can vary in temperature, LIMAB has developed several different unique temperatures and mechanically stable mounting frames. This ensures long term stability and eliminates the need for frequent calibration.

Calibration

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

Turn-key solution

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

Benefits

In-line quality control

Continuous, consistent, monitoring of product thickness and width can reduce scrap and improve plant efficiency. There are no time delays as between manual inspections and a quick feedback at product changes. No out-of-tolerance products will be sent out to customers. Production can be monitored from many different places in the plant. Production reports and statistics are generated.

Well proven design

LIMAB has been producing laser sensors for more than 30 years and we offer a 3 year warranty on PreciCura sensors. We also have in-house design and production of all the other system parts such as mechanical frames and system software. The ThicknessProfiler system has been produced for more than 15 years, with many installations around the world. It has constantly over the years been updated and upgraded with new functions according to the demands of the market.

Specifications

Specification mm (inch)

Strip width mm (inch)	Strip thickness mm (inch)
700-1700 (29-67)	1.5-25 (0.06-1)
Slab width mm (inch)	Slab thickness mm (inch)
600-2500 (24-98)	40-350 (1.6-13.8)
Heavy plate width mm (inch)	Heavy plate thickness mm (inch)
1300-3200 (51-126)	5-200 (0.2-8)

Number of laser sensors	To be defined depending on material dimensions
Sensor measurement rate	2000 Hz
Laser class	Laser Class 2 or 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	2.000 m³/h
Cooling air temperature in gauge	+10 to +30°C (50 – 86°F)
Electrical power requirements	230 VAC, 50Hz, 16A or 120VAC, 60 Hz