Energy technology

QuellTech laser metrology in practice

1. Innovative Energy Generation: Solar Thermal Power Plants as the Key to Efficient Energy Storage.

By leveraging innovative ceramic particles and cutting-edge laser measurement technology from QuellTech, the efficiency of solar thermal power plants is being elevated to unprecedented levels – a pivotal stride towards sustainable energy storage.

The significance of solar thermal power plants (CSP plants) in the eco-friendly transformation of the global energy system is often underestimated. Representing a less widespread technology, they offer significant advantages for energy storage. Ceramic particles serve as heat reservoirs, enabling efficient electricity generation. Unlike conventional solar cells, these power plants store heat rather than electricity, facilitating cost-effective and simplified storage. This approach can counterbalance fluctuations in energy yield from wind turbines and photovoltaic systems. Especially in sun-rich nations, they can bridge the gaps in power supply arising from calm winds or darkness. (MDPI.com)The functioning of solar thermal power plants parallels that of steam power plants, albeit with concentrated solar radiation as the fuel. Mirrors are employed to concentrate sunlight. Innovative ceramic particles, rather than liquid salts, function as heat carriers, capable of withstanding higher temperatures, thereby enhancing the efficiency of power generation. The German Aerospace Center (DLR) is researching and testing this technology in collaboration with industrial partners. The QuellTech Q6 laser scanner is utilized to non-invasively measure the thickness of ceramic particle layers.In a pioneering approach, the QuellTech Q6 laser scanner contributes to achieving an optimal configuration of these particles. The scanner’s capacity to accurately measure the rotating drum, where ceramic particles are employed for heat storage, allows for precise monitoring. This integration not only accelerates projects but also ensures quality assurance by identifying irregularities in drum rotation and compensating for them through meticulous adjustments.

2. Inline 3D- Measurement of Round Disks as a Turnkey Solution

Measurement of brake disks, grinding wheels or similar rotationally symmetric items may include properties like diameter, thickness, radial and axial run-out and surface defects.

Conventional tactile measurement in a production run proves to be extremely time-consuming and is therefore performed merely on a random basis. Is it possible to carry out a measurement which is quick and accurate at the same time? Definitely yes: Integration of QuellTech laser scanners as turnkey solution provides for a 100% quality inspection in the course of the production, by non-contact optical detection of the surfaces.

3. Detection of surface defects in the steel industry – effective quality assurance with QuellTech laser scanners

The seamless detection of surface defects is a crucial quality assurance measure in the steel industry. Until now, surface condition has been inspected manually and with the naked eye, resulting in limited field of view. However, QuellTech laser scanners offer an effective all-in-one solution for inspecting large steel sheets and rolls up to 4 m wide. Our non-contact surface inspection provides reliable and accurate detection of surface defects, avoiding costly rework. With QuellTech laser scanners, steel manufacturers can effectively and reliably improve surface quality, increasing customer satisfaction.

4. Production monitoring with optical thickness measurement

In the production of metal strips or other strip materials such as non-transparent plastics, metal foils and sheets, a material test of the material thickness over the entire width of the strip is necessary. If the materials are red hot, as in steel rolling mills, or vibrate during transport, such as foils for accumulator production, this poses a particular challenge.

The Q5 and Q6 laser scanner turnkey solution from QuellTech for layer thickness measurement or material thickness measurement consists of two laser scanners facing each other at 180°, with the web material being located between these two laser scanners. With the measurement-based difference method from QuellTech, unwanted vibrations and changes in position of the web material can be compensated. With glowing material, QuellTech can achieve high measurement accuracy with a special laser wavelength and high optical power, even at high belt speeds, and thus achieve robust measurement data.