Testing & measuring instruments: there was no shortage of new developments in product inspection devices and instruments for testing color and appearance as well as mechanical, rheological, thermal, and weathering properties.For anyone looking to upgrade their test lab or quality-assurance facilities, NPE NPE NullPointerException (Java) NPE Network Processing Engine NPE National Policy on Education NPE National Plastics Exposition NPE Natural Penis Enlargement NPE Nutrition Program for the Elderly 2003 had plenty to offer. The show saw the debut of instruments and software for color measurement and a wide assortment of parts-inspection systems. Also showcased in Chicago were the latest instruments and software for testing a wide variety of end-use performance properties. Color and appearance New color instruments were plentiful, as was software that uses the internet to assist compounders and color users in specifying, communicating, and formulating color digitally and in real time. For example, X-Rite now offers an Internet module for its Color-Master quality-assurance and formulation software. Companies with many locations using the company's instruments can access a single database via the web, even though the software is installed on a server at only one location. As reported previously (see PT, May '03, p. 70), new web-enabled software from GretagMacbeth provides "virtual calibration" so that different makes and models of instruments measure color to the same standards. Both X-Rite and GretagMacbeth also unveiled new instruments. The Premier 8000 Series high-performance benchtop spectrophotometers from X-Rite are said to be the first to capture a digital image of a sample that can be viewed on a computer monitor before the instrument takes color measurements. These units can also measure samples in both vertical and horizontal orientations and are said to have excellent inter-instrument agreement. GretagMacbeth's new Color i 5, a sphere-based laboratory benchtop, is a mid-range system ($14,500) comparable in features to higher-end instruments (PT, May '03, p. 71). Datacolor introduced what's said to be the industry's first spectrophotometer spectrophotometer, instrument for measuring and comparing the intensities of common spectral lines in the spectra of two different sources of light. See photometry; spectroscope; spectrum. designed to accurately measure metallic and pearlescent pearl·es·cent adj. Having a pearly luster or gloss. pearl·es  cence n.Adj. 1. pigments as well as the new generation of diffraction-based special-effect pigments. Its MultiFX10 spectrophotometer measures these pigments at multiple angles because they look different when viewed from various perspectives. Datacolor also brought out a new line of laboratory-grade spectrophotometers (SF600X, SF450X, SF350X) in a range of prices and capabilities (PT, June '03, p. 32). Two new portable gloss meters (Micro-Gloss and Micro-Tri-Gloss) from Byk-Gardner have self-diagnostics that check the calibration values (PT, June '03, p. 32). And Minolta's new pair of hand-held colorimeters (CR-400 and CR-410) have detachable de·tach tr.v. de·tached, de·tach·ing, de·tach·es 1. To separate or unfasten; disconnect: detach a check from the checkbook; detach burs from one's coat. 2. , lightweight measuring heads (PT, June '03, p. 31). PocketSpec Technologies made its debut in this market with its $350 battery-powered, hand-held ColorQA color measurement device. It has a probe with an electro-optic sensor that permits quick quality checks of the color of molded parts (PT, Jan. '03, p. 27). DVT See deep vein thrombosis. Corp. brought out what it calls the industry's first machine-vision sensors with a built-in spectrophotometer for enhanced color recognition. SpectroCam is designed for QC applications where small color variations are critical, such as auto interior parts. For on-line color measurement and QC of products such as PVC PVC: see polyvinyl chloride. PVC in full polyvinyl chloride Synthetic resin, an organic polymer made by treating vinyl chloride monomers with a peroxide. profiles and films, X-Rite offers the new Teleflash spectrophotometer system. Measuring distance can be up to 5 ft, and the system tolerates small variations in measuring distance from sensor to sample. The system also has thermochromism compensation for color differences related to product temperature. That allows for color measurement without waiting for the product to cool and stabilize. News in parts inspection If you are looking for Looking for In the context of general equities, this describing a buy interest in which a dealer is asked to offer stock, often involving a capital commitment. Antithesis of in touch with. a "total quality-control system for PET preforms," check out Agr-TopWave's new Preformer. This system incorporates two modules in one machine. The first is a camera-based inspection module that detects a wide variety of common sidewall side·wall n. 1. A wall that forms the side of something. 2. A side surface of an automobile tire, between the edge of the tread and the wheel rim. Noun 1. and base defects. The second is a leak detector that subjects each preform pre·form tr.v. pre·formed, pre·form·ing, pre·forms 1. To shape or form beforehand. 2. To determine the shape or form of beforehand. n. 1. to a vacuum check. A new system for vision inspection and thickness monitoring inside the blow molding machine (Woodworking) A planing machine for making moldings (Founding) A machine to assist in making molds for castings. See also: Molding Molding is also available from Agr-TopWave. Combining its PET-Wall non-contact thickness-monitoring system with a high-precision camera-based inspection system, PET Wallplus with Vision both monitors sidewall thickness distribution and detects random defects in critical areas of the seal surface and base of PET containers at speeds up to 40,000 bottle/hr. Packaging Technologies & Inspection LLC (Logical Link Control) See "LANs" under data link protocol. LLC - Logical Link Control introduced the new Pti-172 leak tester that's said to provide 100% on-line inspection at high speed in a smooth continuous motion. Users can customize the number of test stations and choose vacuum or pressure mode. The unit is built over a conveyor and thus requires up to 70% less space than other systems. Moreover, its base price is around $30,000 vs. upwards of $50,000 to $60,000 for conventional rotary systems. For 100% on-line inspection of film and sheet, the new Nanoman system from Nanosystems LLC utilizes one or more low-cost, high-speed "smart" cameras to detect and classify holes, contamination, gels, specks, streaks, and coating defects. It sells for around $35,000 vs. about $50,000 for competitive systems. An in-line vision inspection system designed to detect pin_holes and thin spots on multiple thermoformed trays simultaneously is new from Automated Vision Technology. TrayInspector consists of a scanner with multiple cameras, an illumination system, software, and computer (PT, Aug. '03, p. 20). Quality Station is a new line of vision inspection systems that features multi-camera capability and Plant Vision 7 software from Avalon Vision Solutions. The new software features event-driven I/O (Input/Output) The transfer of data between the CPU and a peripheral device. Every transfer is an output from one device and an input to another. See PC input/output. I/O - Input/Output architecture that permits multiple inspection tasks to be executed asynchronously, making it feasible to inspect a variety of parts and assemblies in random order and in any lot size. The Eagle Gel Counter is the newest web-surface inspection system from Lasor Systronics. It incorporates defect inspection, imaging, and advanced defect classification in one modular system. Special software modules can be added for specific tasks like detecting streaks, voids in coatings, and surface changes. Measuring dimensions Optical Gaging Products (OGP OGP Office of Global Programs (US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration) OGP Office of Governmentwide Policy (US) OGP International Association of Oil & Gas Producers ) showcased two new dimensional measurement systems for finished parts. OGP's Cobra 3D laser scanner performs a series of linear scans of molded part dimensions. Scanned areas can be as large as 4 x 2 in. Second, the company's Focus Contour Projector is a benchtop optical comparator comparator Instrument for comparing something with a similar thing or with a standard measure, in particular to measure small displacements in mechanical devices. In astronomy, the blink comparator is used to examine photographic plates for signs of moving bodies. with integral geometric measuring processor. A pair of bright LCD displays and the keypad are built in. This instrument has a 14-in.-diam. viewing screen and automatic lens sensing Tinius Olsen's new Model iT 503 impact tester does not require changing the pendulum to perform Izod or Charpy tests. that's said to provide error-free measurement scaling. Agr-TopWave has a new vision-based dimensional measuring system for bottles and containers. The Vision Bottle Gauge 7000 incorporates a high-speed robotic handling system and camera imaging technology to measure and document critical dimensions of complex bottle shapes, particularly in "difficult" regions such as the neck-finish area. Vision Engineering Inc.'s new Hawk non-contact optical measuring system comes with two- or three-axis measurement, either manual or motorized mo·tor·ize tr.v. mo·tor·ized, mo·tor·iz·ing, mo·tor·iz·es 1. To equip with a motor. 2. To supply with motor-driven vehicles. 3. To provide with automobiles. . It also offers manual or automated optical edge detection plus optional digital photo and data-storage capabilities. The new 25MX Plus ultrasonic thickness gauge from GE Panametrics can make single- and multi-point thickness measurements on plastics and composites from one side only. Standard ultrasonic thickness measuring requires access to both sides of the part. Orus Integration's new MS series non-contact metrology station reportedly enables high-volume measurement of dimensions, weight, and transparency of plastic items like lids, cups, caps, and closures. New mechanical testers Two companies introduced new pendulum impact testers that can use either a Charpy or Izod configuration. Tinius Olsen showed its new Model IT 503 impact tester, which does not require changing the pendulum to perform the two tests, instead, the operator attaches the appropriate striking "tap" on the pendulum and the proper specimen clump or anvils on the base of the unit. The aerodynamically designed compound pendulum Noun 1. compound pendulum - pendulum consisting of an actual object allowed to rotate freely around a horizontal axis physical pendulum ballistic pendulum - a physical pendulum consisting of a large mass suspended from a rod; when it is struck by a is said to give this tester maximum rigidity in the direction of the impact and to virtually eliminate any windage wind·age n. 1. a. The effect of wind on the course of a projectile. b. The point or degree at which the wind gauge or sight of a rifle or gun must be set to compensate for the effect of the wind. c. losses. A "low blow" feature provides an easy and reliable way to release the pendulum from a lower-than-usual height, allowing for testing at lower impact velocities and energy levels. The Advanced Pendulum Impact device is Dynisco Polymer Test's first Izod and Charpy impact tester. It is said to offer high rigidity and a pendulum arm with low-friction precision bearings--features that reportedly improve accuracy by avoiding unwanted energy dissipation. PLC control and menu-driven software are said to provide easy operation. It sells in the range of $25,000 to $35,000. Com-Ten Industries' new ball-screw-driven 700 Series variable-speed universal materials testers have increased speed ranges. They can perform compression and tensile tests without the need for special adapters or cages. Also new from Com-Ten is C-TAP Version 2 data-acquisition software, which includes more built-in formulas, ability to plot multiple tests on one chart, and a report-formatting wizard. Com-Ten also offers the new Com-Touch controller for automated test systems. It automatically detects sample failure and can return the tester to its original position. It measures force, deflection, and speed and can report peak or break results. A new automatic notcher that handles up to 50 specimens is available from Ceast USA. Its Automatic Notchvis Plus utilizes a special cutting motion that reportedly reduces the friction and induced stress generated by traditional rotary notchers. Precision motor control lets you set a notch depth with resolution of 0.01 mm. Rheological rhe·ol·o·gy n. The study of the deformation and flow of matter. rhe  o·log & thermal properties A new series of melt indexers in the middle price range is available from Ceast USA Inc. Melt Flow Modular is a very simple, manual system that can be upgraded to increase automation and/or precision. It can record up to 40 independent data points in each run. Tinius Olsen brought out a pneumatic purging device that automates cleaning of its MP600 melt plastometers. The MP600 purge system reportedly makes MFR MFR, n See myofascial release. and MVR MVR In currencies, this is the abbreviation for the Maldive Rufiyaa. Notes: The currency market, also known as the Foreign Exchange market, is the largest financial market in the world, with a daily average volume of over US $1 trillion. testing nearly automatic and produces more consistent test results. Ceast's new Rheologic 5000 series twin-capillary rheometers can be configured with one or two barrels. Twin barrels allow the Bagley correction to be performed in one ran, and they also double output by effectively combining two rheometers into one unit. C.W. Brabender Instruments featured CANbus communications on its new ATR ATR Achilles tendon reflex, see Ankle reflex Plasti-Corder torque rheometer rhe·om·e·ter n. An instrument for measuring the flow of viscous liquids, such as blood. and its Intelli-Torque instrument, a recent upgrade of the Plasti-Corder torque rheometer. It has higher torque capability than the ATR model. New Vicat testers were shown by Ceast and Dynisco. Ceast's Vicar 500-D is said to provide higher temperatures (up to 500 C), faster automatic air/water cooling, and energy savings up to 50% compared with earlier instruments. The Dynisco HDV (High Definition Video) The high-definition, wide screen version of the DV magnetic tape format. Like DV, HDV recording moves at a constant data rate and stores data on the same DV and MiniDV tapes as SD camcorders. 3 HDT/Vicat tester is an updated unit that replaces the model HDV2. Its key improvement is in the oil bath, which is said to heat multiple samples with improved temperature uniformity from sample to sample. Upgraded software reportedly provides enhanced data capture, such as recording of sample creep over time. Measure special properties Thwing-Albert introduced the EJA EJA Elder Justice Act EJA East Journal on Approximations EJA Ergonomic Job Analysis EJA Environmental Justice Alliance Vantage instrument for testing tensile and adhesion properties, as well as seal strength and friction coefficient of plastic film and sheet. Its Windows-based software provides complete test control, database, and reporting capabilities. Taber Industries' new Model 550 and 551 Taber shear/scratch testers use interchangeable tools to measure the susceptibility of surfaces to marring, gouging Gouging can be:
New touchscreen controls come with the new Ci3000+, Ci4000, and Ci5000 Xenon xenon (zē`nŏn) [Gr.,=strange], gaseous chemical element; symbol Xe; at. no. 54; at. wt. 131.29; m.p. −111.9°C;; b.p. −107.1°C;; density 5.86 grams per liter at STP; valence usually 0. Arc Weather-Ometers from Atlas Material Testing Technology. The Ci series weather testers are approved by Ford Motor Co. and General Motors Corp. for conducting SAE J1885 and J1960 testing on interior and exterior automotive materials. These units reportedly use the latest water-cooled xenon-arc lamps to deliver consistent amounts of radiant exposure See: thermal exposure. . Easily interchangeable glass filters tailor the light spectrum to match sunlight conditions in particular end-use environments. The new controls have increased memory and a library of standard and user-defined test programs. Dynisco's new LME See London Metal Exchange. LME See London Metal Exchange (LME). lab mixing extruder is designed to extrude extrude /ex·trude/ (ek-strldbomacd´) 1. to force out, or to occupy a position distal to that normally occupied. 2. in dentistry, to occupy a position occlusal to that normally occupied. test samples from very small amounts of non-PVC developmental materials. Instead of a screw, the benchtop unit has a smooth, conical conical /con·i·cal/ (kon´i-k'l) cone-shaped. con·i·cal or con·ic adj. Of, relating to, or shaped like a cone. , heated rotor that processes just 5 to 10 g/hr. It sells for $10,000 to $12,000. Dynisco also launched the LMM LMM light meromysin; produced by a digestion of myosin. lab mixing molder, which uses the same plasticating rotor as the LME, but feeds the melt to a hand-operated compression mold for producing test-sample disks. This benchtop unit costs $10,000 to 12,000. NEED TO KNOW MORE? Agr-TopWave LLC, Butler, Pa. (724) 482-2163, www.agrtopwave.com Atlas Material Testing Technology LLC, Chicago (773) 327 4520, www.atlasmts.com Automated Vision Technology, Inc., Colorado Springs Colorado Springs, city (1990 pop. 281,140), seat of El Paso co., central Colo., on Monument and Fountain creeks, at the foot of Pikes Peak; inc. 1886. It is a year-round resort and a booming military, technological, and commercial city. , Coin. (719) 260-6903. www.automatedvisiontechnology.com Avalon Vision Solutions LLC, Lithia lith·i·a n. See lithium oxide. [New Latin, from lithion, from Greek, diminutive of lithos, stone.] Springs, Ga. (770) 944-8445. www.avalonvision.com C.W. Brabender Instruments Inc., South Hackensack, N.J. (201) 343-8425, www.cwbrabender.com Byk-Gardner USA, Columbia, Md. (800) 343-7121, www.bykgardner.com Ceast USA Inc., Charlotte, N.C. (704) 423-0042, www.ceast.com Com-Ten industries, Pinellas Park Pinellas Park (pĭnĕl`əs), city (1990 pop. 43,426), Pinellas co., W central Fla.; inc. 1915. Mainly residential, it has industries that manufacture electronic equipment and plastics. , Fla. (727) 520-1200, www.com-ten.com Datacolor, Lawrenceville, NJ. (609) 895-7425, www.datacolor.com DVT Corp., Duluth, Ga. (770) 814-7920, www.dvtsensors.com Dynisco Polymer Test, Westgate, III. (508) 541-9400, www.dynisco.com GE Panametrics, Waltham, Mass. (800) 225-8330. www.gepower.com/panametrics GretagMacbeth, Windsor, N.Y. (800) 622-2384, www.gretagmacbeth.com Lasor Systronics Inc., Norcross, Ga. (800) 581-7776, www.lasorsystronics.com Minolta Corp., Instruments Systems Div., Ramsey, N.J. (888) 473-2656, www.minoltainstruments.com Nanosystems LLC, Gainesville, Ca. (770) 297-8188, www.nanosystemsllc.com Optical Gaging Products, Inc., Rochester, N.Y. (800) 647-4243, www.ogpnet.com Orus Integration Inc., Laval, Due. (450) 975-9989, www.orusintegration.com Packaging Technologies and Inspection LLC, Tuckahoe, N.Y. (914) 337-2005, www.ptiusa.com PocketSpec Technologies, Inc., Denver (303) 393-8060, www.pocketspec.com Taber Industries, Tonawanda, N.Y. (800) 333-5300, www.taberindustries.com Tinius Olsen, Horsham, Pa. (215) 675-7100, www.tiniusolsen.com Thwing-Albert Instruments Co., Philadelphia (215) 637-0100, www.thwingalbert.com Vision Engineering, Inc., Milford, Conn. (800) 644-7264, www.visioneng.com X-Rite, Inc., Grandville, Mich. (616) 524-7663, www.xrite.com |
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