TESTING & MEASURMENT
The next generation in orange peel measurement
The appearance of paint and plastic surfaces is affected by structures , often referred to as orange peel . In the production of cars and similar multi-component goods many materials are used under various manufacturing processes . The goal - and challenge - is to create a harmonious overall impression of all parts . Especially the paint application process is influenced by many parameters , being paint viscosity , substrate roughness or film thickness , to name just a few examples . Objective measurement data are required for quality communication and to guarantee process stability .
Visual perception of orange peel depends on the size and distinctness of wavy structures . The wave-scan analyzes waviness intensity with 5 wavelength ranges ( 0.1 mm - 30 mm ) and evaluates the brilliance of the surface . The results form a “ structure spectrum ” and help to analyse and optimise the surface quality based on material and process parameters .
A new , additional approach is developed to filter the optical profile of the surface using fast fourier transformation ( FFT ), to determine dominant waviness sizes and their intensity . In visual studies it became obvious that observers can distinguish samples based on the dominant wavelengths . This data can be used to improve e . g . fibre-reinforced composites .
wave-scan 3 - The next generation
The new wave-scan 3 family comes with a fresh design to accommodate an extra-large color touch display . Operation and feel is as intuitive as you are used to with your smart-phone . Capacitive display technology provides a state-of-the-art haptic touch . The fastest chip ever calculates complex waviness scales in no time at all and lets you do more in the same time .
The new touch display enables an easy , intuitive menu navigation with new functions like e . g . “ Quick Check ” for measuring without saving . “ Organizers ” let you guide through a customised sampling procedure to measure a car body . In the “ Measure ” menu , use own standards with scales and statistics defined in the instrument or in smart-chart including the limits for Pass / Fail . The big display offers enough space for all statistical data and - for the first time , the data can now be displayed even with Pass / Fail indication in colour .
Measure orange peel on high and semi gloss surfaces
Substrate quality can telegraph through the coating and cause a “ fuzzy ” appearance . The substrate can be steel , e-coat or primer which are often low gloss finishes . The wave-scan 3 dual employes additional sensorics for semi gloss surfaces . Thus , the surface quality after each process step can be specified and objectively evaluated . From substrate to top coat , from film thickness to levelling - wavescan is the diagnostic and QC tool at the same time to keep the process under control .
Standardised process monitoring with smart-chart
Transfer your measuring data via docking station or directly connect with USB - cable . Optionally , wireless data transfer with Wi-Fi function can be activated on request .
The software smart-chart includes powerful standard management for defining all essential appearance parameters with Pass / Fail tolerances . Its “ Organiser ” set-up enables clear sample identification and a menu guided operation on the instrument . From single test series to trend reports over time or special charts for trouble shooting , smart-chart is the global tool for process stability .
The software includes many NEW functions like e . g . “ Drill-in ” on any data point will show the history of the last 20 readings . Dynamic print layout let you create own reports for professional documentation .
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36 MAY 2021 twitter : @ surfaceworldmag