Non-contact Measuring System for Processing Aluminum Ingots/Slabs

INITIAL SITUATION

Aluminium is an essential material in the aerospace, automotive, pharmaceutical and food industries. Productivity optimization and material loss minimization are crucial in the further processing of cast aluminium blocks in milling systems. This increases production efficiency, reduces costs and guarantees high-quality end products.

Typical Defects in Cast Aluminum Blocks

  1. Dimensions outside the tolerance (length, width, thickness): Inaccuracies disrupt processes such as rolling, extrusion or mechanical processing.

  2. Flatness deviation: Uneven surfaces lead to fitting problems, material stresses and loss of performance.

  3. Twisting and deflection: Misaligned bars compromise structural integrity.

  4. Concavity/convexity: Surface defects due to cooling or casting stresses impair the machining accuracy.

Problem: Spot Scanner Measurement

Until now, the thickness of the aluminium ingots was measured using a point laser distance sensor to adjust the peeling machine. This measurement method has clear weaknesses:

  • Single point measurement does not cover the entire surface.
  • Inefficient scalping: Too much or too little material is removed.
  • Reworking: Holes or uneven surfaces require additional milling passes, which increases time and costs.

The Solution: QuellTech 3D Laser Line Scanner

QuellTech’s 3D laser line scanner revolutionizes measurement:

  • Multi-dimensional analysis: records thickness, length, width, flatness, side curvature and concavity/convexity.
  • High-precision measurement: Comprehensive point clouds ensure precise calculations.

Function of the QuellTech 3D Laser Scanner System

The system consists of five synchronized scanners that create a complete point cloud of the surface. It enables efficient inspection of ingots:

  • Width: 800-2,350 mm
  • Thickness: 350-700 mm

Advantages of the QuellTech Solution

  1. Comprehensive analysis: measurement of thickness, length, flatness, curvature and twist.

  2. Optimized scaling process: real-time adjustment reduces cycle times.

  3. User-friendliness: Automated reports and visual representations make quality checks easier.

  4. Automation: Integration into the control system (PLC) enables real-time adjustment and reduces material loss.

  5. Data management: Central storage for long-term analysis and quality control.

Benefits of the 3D Laser Scanning System

  • Highest precision: Meets industrial tolerances.
  • Increased productivity: Faster inspections reduce downtime.
  • Material savings: Reduction of waste through precise measurement.
  • Cost savings: Minimization of rework and rejects.
  • Conformity to standards: Compliance with standards in the aviation, automotive and construction industries.
  • Traceability: Complete documentation for audits.
  • Industry 4.0: Integration for predictive maintenance and intelligent manufacturing.
  • Reproducible results: Consistent quality regardless of the operator.
  • Lower labour costs: Minimal manual inspection.

Do you have a specific Measurement Task?

We are happy to help you with that!

Stefan Ringwald

Technical Consultant

Can we help you with your Measurement Task?

We would like to help you to evaluate your specific measurement task.
With an initial free test measurement of your application, we can give an early assessment of the feasibility. Do not hesitate to contact us for more information or to make an appointment for a consultation. Please talk to us!

Contact us!

Technical Contact

Your technically competent contact, Stefan Ringwald, will be happy to help you.

Understanding your Challenge

Our aim is to fully understand your specific technical requirements for your current measurement task.

Well-founded Solution Proposal

Thanks to many years of experience with complex tasks in the field of 3D laser measurement, you will receive well-founded solution proposals from us.

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