FLUKE Process Instruments GmbH

The Extrusion Coating EC Thermal Imaging System 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 product.

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 extrusion coating, co-extrusion and laminating processes.The series also features dedicated hardware and software options, which have been created specifically for specialized extrusion coating, co-extrusion and laminating processes.
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.

In extrusion coating applications, for example, measuring the surface temperature of the melt curtain can provide crucial information about the available temperature distribution at the die exit. The EC Thermal Imaging System is a non-contact temperature measurement solution that can cover the entire width of the polyethylene film and scan the melt curtain directly.

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
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Extrusion Coating System Software

Unique to the EC System software, the “automatic sector” feature continuously monitors the entirety of the melt curtain and provides automation edge detection. This feature also adapts to measuring plastic films of varying widths automatically. Any temperature gaps or unacceptable “waving” or “edge running” can also be detected automatically from one scanned line to the next.

Additionally, by utilizing OLE for Process Control (OPC), the EC Thermal Imaging System can communicate with a variety of common process control systems. As a result, the system is more than a measurement tool and can be used as an integral part of your total process control system.

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