FLUKE Process Instruments GmbH

The GS Thermal Imaging System for Glass Processes from Fluke Process Instruments features a variety of linescanning systems that provide continuous, accurate and real-time thermal images and temperature measurements for moving processes and low emissivity glass products.

Each system comes in a wide choice of spectral and temperatures ranges to accommodate a variety of applications. The series also features dedicated hardware and software options, which have been created specifically for specialized glass applications – such as glass bending, forming, annealing and tempering – and industrial environments.

MP Linescanner

With scan speeds up to 300Hz and the ability to scan up to 1024 data points in a single scan, the MP Linescanner Series can provide a complete picture of even the highest speed manufacturing processes. Additionally, with a 90° field-of-view and up to 200:1 optics, each spot on the target surface is capable of being sampled up to three times, ensuring an accurate temperature reading.

Each linescanner also includes a built-in line laser for rapid alignment, resulting in lower installation costs. Built-in water cooling and air purge features, as well as optional waterproof housing, help maintain the scanner. The MP Linescanner Series also allows users to utilize existing networks with pre-wired cables, which connect to a standard PC for fast installations. The system’s versatile Datatemp® DP Software also lets you create custom operating parameters as well as easily display thermal images and temperature profiles.

Key Features:

• Real-time thermal imaging, scan speed up to 300Hz
• Up to 1024 measurement points per line
• Wide choice of spectral and temperature ranges
• Optical resolution up to 200:1
• Real-time color thermal images
• Accurate data analysis
• High-quality brushless motor (MTBF 40,000 h)
• Built-in Ethernet TCP/IP communications
• PC independent alarm output
• PC independent 4-20 mA interfaces (3 outputs)
• I/O module support for up to 10 sectors/zones (PC independent)
• Internal Line Laser for accurate alignment
• Rugged, waterproof IP65 housing
• Air purge keeps window free of dirt and condensation
• Built-in water cooling for ambient up to 180 °C (356 °F)
• Field-replaceable window

 GS System Software

The GS Thermal Imaging System features exclusive software that can sub-divide thermal images into specific areas of interest or zones. Each zone, which is overlaid on the thermal image, represents the heating elements in the furnace and can be processed to read the average, maximum or minimum temperature. The software also allows users to save thermal images for later analysis as well as alarm capabilities to alert to any thermal defects.

The software also allows users to setup predefined recipes that can accommodate frequent product changes, such as loads with differing thickness.

An extension the GS System, the GSLE System is designed specifically to read low emissivity glass and incorporates all the features of the original system. It is best suited for monitoring and optimizing glass treatment processes (e.g., tempering and one-sided coated glass). By adding an IR point sensor that can measure the temperature of the uncoated side of the glass (bottom) where the emissivity is known, the thermal image created by the MP Linescanner is automatically corrected.

Key Features:

• Supports multiple product specific configurations (recipes)
• Text file alarm logging
• Fail-safe alarm logging
• Reference image for comparative analysis
• Saved thermal images can be played back like a time-lapse movie
• Multiple system interfaces digital and analog I/O, OPC, direct forwarding of data via ASCII
• Supports multiple MP Linescanners
• Password protected access levels
• Multiple language support
• Real-time ambient temperature compensation or emissivity adjustment