Perfect pipe and tube quality thanks to cleverly combined measuring technology from SIKORA
Continuous quality control during pipe and tube extrusion is indispensable nowadays. To achieve a perfect product, it is advisable to complement the traditional hot measurement with a final measurement at the end of the line. Read on to discover how you can cleverly combine your measuring technologies to achieve the best possible results.
Immediately after the extrusion head or vacuum tank, the first measurement is taken using the X-ray-based X-RAY 6000 PRO. With over 30 years of experience, SIKORA is the global market leader in X-ray measuring technology and supports its customers with expertise and top-tier service. The X-ray system measures the wall thickness, eccentricity, inner and outer diameter, and ovality of pipes and tubes with diameters ranging from 0.65 mm to 270 mm. Thanks to its intuitive “one-button” operation, the system delivers precise measurements immediately upon start-up. No calibration or predefinition of product parameters is required. This accelerates the start-up process, reducing scrap and enabling resource-efficient production.
The X-RAY 6000 PRO provides data for tool centering, which in some cases is carried out automatically, and autonomously controls up to three material layers to achieve the minimum wall thickness. This eliminates eccentricities and excess material usage. The measurement data is recorded via the ECOCONTROL 6000 processor system, which continuously visualizes and documents product quality.
A second measurement at the end of the line is essential to ensure compliance with the specified parameters. For this purpose, a 3-axis measuring head from the LASER Series 2000 is installed, where the product has already cooled down.
The diameter values from the cold measurement provide insights into the shrinkage behavior of the pipe or tube. Additionally, an integrated ovality measurement verifies the “roundness” of the final product. The product is also inspected for surface defects, allowing even the smallest lumps to be reliably detected. This final quality check helps prevent customer complaints.
The combined measurements at the beginning and end of the line enable continuous monitoring of the extrusion process, so that any deviations can be immediately corrected. This ensures consistent pipe or tube quality while reducing costs and saving material, significantly boosting manufacturing productivity.
