FAQ for Sheet Production Lines
FAQ: Online Measurement for Sheet Production Lines
This Sheet line measurement FAQ explains how online measurement systems help control thickness, improve quality, and optimize production in real time.
How do I qualify the ROI for an online measurement system on my sheet line?
In many cases, the sheet is used in secondary processes like thermoforming. For these applications, ensuring a uniform sheet thickness profile within specification is critical. Any thick or thin spots will cause potential issues in the thermoformer.
The other key benefit is maintaining sheet thickness within specification, avoiding costly raw material waste.
Can I use auto control on my sheet line?
If the line has an automatic die, then yes, this can be regulated via the measurement system.
However, in some sheet lines where the extruded sheet is fed into a 3-roll stack, we must consider the bead within the roll nip and how this effects the profile.
It is best to consult with your gauging supplier contact.
I run many colours of sheet. Is this a problem for the measurement system?
Generally, no, colour pigments do not cause an issue for most sensors that SCANTECH proposes.
Do the gauges measure thickness or basis weight (gsm)?
There are gauges that measure basis weight which can convert the measurement into a thickness (µ or mm) by using the SG (density) of the sheet, if it is known and is constant (uniform throughout the sheet).
But there are also gauges that measure thickness by means of displacement sensors (typically laser type sensors).
The type of sensor recommended would be evaluated by the gauging supplier sales contact.
What types of polymers can be measured with an online gauge for sheet lines?
The sheet extrusion process is adaptable for many types of material (polymer) and from a gauging perspective it is possible to measure all of them.
The most common polymers run on sheet lines that are measured are:
ABS Sheet
Acrylic Sheet
APET sheet
EVA Sheet
PA Sheet
PC Sheet
PET Sheet
PETG Sheet
PMMA Sheet
PP Sheet
PS Sheet
PVB Sheet
PVC Sheet
TPU Sheet