LAP designs its measurement systems to meet the demands of networked processes in digitalized automation environments.
At Tube 2020 in Düsseldorf, LAP is presenting for the first time its new SMART CORE PRO software for measuring the contours of long products. It enables the deep integration of geometrical data in the increasingly networked rolling mill production environment, making it available for cross-process data applications in the smart factory.
With its new SMART CORE PRO software package, LAP introduces a system that makes the intensive, factory-wide use of long-product contour data possible, both directly in the process line and in the data structures of a networked Industry 4.0 production environment. Its high connectivity opens up the way for the exchange of data between people, machines and processes, and the use of comprehensive contour-measurement data.
With SMART CORE PRO, the results from the CONTOUR CHECK SHAPE contour measuring system can be used directly to control the rolling process, as well as for further analysis in cross-process production control and quality assurance. The data is also available for use in MES or ERP systems, delivering comprehensive input for further use in big-data analysis or for future applications in supply-chain optimization.
Martin Pabst, head of the Industry Systems business unit at LAP, sees a great need for the deep integration of geometrical data in superordinate systems: „In the digital factory, machines organize production autonomously, exchange information automatically, initiate actions, and control each other. Industry 4.0 in the rolling mill starts where data from measuring systems is intelligently linked with superordinate systems. SMART CORE PRO makes the geometrical data of the rolled product available factory-wide in highly networked manufacturing processes. With it, users can improve processes at a higher level, and precisely evaluate quality and output.“
The Technology in Detail
Contour Measurement with CONTOUR CHECK SHAPE
The systems of the CONTOUR CHECK SHAPE series measure the contours of round products like bar, tube, ribbed steel bar, and flat, hexagonal, and octagonal profiles in-line, using laser light-section technology. They detect shape deviations like over- and underfill on one or both sides, surface defects, and roll offset and wear.
A unique feature of SMART CORE PRO is the unambiguous automatic detection and classification of profile deviations and surface flaws, which allows the causes to be remedied. The software differentiates between different convex and concave contour deviations, and categorizes them into five different length classes.
As a result, the adjustment of the rolling stand no longer depends on subjective estimates, and the software gives specific information on how to set the stand. For example, the measured values for a roll offset can flow directly into the roll-adjustment target value.
That means that the rolling stand can be trimmed faster and more accurately after product changes, raising the certainty of producing within specified tolerances again within a short time, and so increasing rolling-mill output.
For two- and three-roller stands, it is important to reliably detect the orientation of the profile. An algorithm specially developed for SMART CORE PRO compensates for any twisting of the material between the rolling stand and the measurement point. As a result, the contour is always detected and presented in the correct position.
This makes it possible to clearly assign the core dimensions, like gauge base and groove, shoulder, and seam size of the stand setting and the rollers causing it, which is a basic requirement for the automatic control of the rolling process.
LAP at TUBE/WIRE 2020
Düsseldorf, March 30 to April 3, 2020
Hall 7a, booth E16
About LAP
LAP is one of the world’s leading suppliers of systems that increase quality and efficiency through laser projection, laser measurement, and other processes. Every year, LAP supplies 15,000 units to customers in industries as diverse as radiation therapy, steel production, and composite processing. With 350 employees at eight locations in Europe, America, and Asia, in 2018 LAP generated revenues of EUR 60 million.
Laser measurement in the steel industry
LAP’s laser-based non-contact measuring systems are the leading solution for quality assurance in rolling mills. The company“s laser systems measure the contour, thickness and straightness of steel products such as wire, tube, bar, profile and strip, during the rolling process.
They are integrated in the rolling mill and detect the dimensions during ongoing operations to provide recommendations for the optimum adjustment of the rolling stand. This enables real-time quality control and ensures production dependability. The user can react immediately in the event of deviations, saving time and material.
LAP’s laser systems thus reduce downtime and boost productivity. For over 30 years, measuring systems by LAP have helped improve production quality in the steel industry.
Company-Contact
LAP GmbH Laser Applikationen
Iris Wente
Zeppelinstraße 23
21337 Lüneburg | Germany
Phone: +49.4131.9511-95
Fax: +49.4131.9511-96
E-Mail: i.wente@lap-laser.com
Url: http://www.lap-laser.com
Press
VIP Kommunikation
Regina Reinhardt
Dennewartstraße 25-27
52068 Aachen | Germany
Phone: +49.241.89468-24
Fax: +49.241.89468-44
E-Mail: reinhardt@vip-kommunikation.de
Url: http://www.vip-kommunikation.de
Die Bildrechte liegen bei dem Verfasser der Mitteilung.
