Inline Hi-Speed Measurement of Plastic

CHRocodile sensors come in a variety of wavelengths and configurations for the measurement on nearly all parts. With advancements in the infrared sensors, we now offer even more solutions to the plastic industry.

All of the sensors in the CHRocodile line include basic features for integration and in-line use. They come equipped with serial outputs (RB232/422), encoder and trigger inputs, and analog outputs. The high speed measurement capabilities range from 2kHz to 70kHz. The configuration of the units are a control box and optical probe, connected by a fiber. This further eases the integration process, because there are no moving parts or electronics in the probe. The control unit can be located as far as 50m away if necessary.

For many applications, a white light sensor with interferometric probe has been used to measure transparent plastic parts with thickness ranges from 10-250 microns. When dealing with thicker samples, the chromatic confocal principle is used to offer a very precise measurement on thicknesses up to nearly 40mm. These two techniques offer a very good solution for many broad applications.

The introduction of opaque parts, and thinner films has pushed the development in the infrared region. With a different wavelength light source and spectrometer configuration, we are able to utilize the interference of the sample for a larger range of products and thicknesses. There are CHRocodile sensors available currently that can measure up to 3mm thick plastic parts regardless of their transparency.

Common products we have measured thus far include PET bottles and preforms, medical balloons, stretched films, blisters, tubing and other extruded parts. Contact us for more information on the technical specifications, or to set up a test measurement.