The K-METRON is a thickness measurement gauge designed for rotational moulding applications, offering a range of 0-30mm. It features a radio link-up for data transmission and software recording capabilities, allowing for efficient and accurate measurement of non-ferrous materials.
Function Description
The K-METRON measures the thickness of non-ferrous materials by coupling a sensor head with a calibrated magnet placed on opposite sides of the product wall. The unit is designed to measure materials with a thickness between 2mm and 20mm, where access to both sides of the product is achievable. It can measure various non-ferrous materials, including plastics of any density or composition, foamed materials, laminates, fibreglass, carbon composites, glass, aluminium, brass, and copper. The device is also capable of measuring the full thickness of multi-layer mouldings.
The measurement process involves placing the sensor head on one face of the product and the magnet on the opposite side until they couple. For hollow objects, the magnet can be inserted through a small opening. The sensor head is then tracked to the desired measurement point, ensuring slow and steady movement to avoid de-coupling. When the trigger is pulled and held, the unit makes small figure-of-eight movements to ensure the transducer magnet is centrally located on the sensor head. Upon releasing the trigger, the K-METRON displays and transmits the minimum measured value to a receiver. The transmitted data includes Date, Time, Mould Identification Number, Mould Position Number, and Thickness Reading.
The K-METRON features a configuration menu accessible from the OFF state, allowing users to select magnet type, calibrate the unit, choose measurement units (Metric or Imperial), and manage radio communication settings. The unit has an auto-power-off function after 3 minutes of inactivity, with a "PWR OFF" warning displayed after 1 minute. Activity can be interrupted by pressing the orange trigger or the "X" (or "Delete") button, which will not transmit or delete data.
Important Technical Specifications
- Measurement Range: 2 to 20mm (magnet dependent), with specific ranges for different magnets:
- 10mm Sphere: 0mm - 20mm
- 10mm Cube: 0mm - 20mm
- 19mm Sphere: 10mm - 30mm
- Resolution: 0.1mm
- Accuracy: +/- 0.2mm or +/- 1mm, depending on the magnet used and range. Better than +/- 0.3mm range error.
- Temperature Range: 5°C to 35°C (41°F to 95°F)
- Calibration Temperature: @ 20°C (68°F)
- Minimum Radius Measured:
- 10mm Cube: 20mm
- 10mm Spherical: 5mm
- Power Supply: 1 x Lithium PP3 9-volt battery (recommended). An Alkaline PP3 9-volt battery can be used, but with significantly reduced battery life.
- Sensor Head Dimensions: Cylinder, 28mm diameter x 55mm length.
Usage Features
- Magnet Selection: The unit comes with three types of magnets: a cube, a 10mm sphere, and a 19mm sphere. The choice depends on the desired measurement range and part characteristics (e.g., tight radii). The 10mm cube is best for thick-walled parts (>4mm), while the 10mm spherical magnet is best for thinner parts and tight radii. The 19mm spherical magnet is for the 10-30mm range. Magnet type is selected in the configuration menu.
- Calibration: The K-METRON can be calibrated for each magnet type. Calibration involves placing the magnet on specific steps of a calibration tool and pulling the trigger. The unit prompts for various thickness positions (e.g., 20mm, 19mm, 18mm) down to "Zero" thickness. If a mistake is made during calibration, the "X" (or "Delete") button can be pressed to go back to the previous position. Re-calibration is not required when switching between magnets once calibrated data is stored.
- Measurement Units: Users can switch between Imperial and Metric units via the configuration menu.
- Radio Communication: The handheld radio module can be activated or de-activated in the configuration menu. De-activating the radio improves battery life and prevents "TX Error" messages when the receiver is not connected.
- Software Integration: The K-METRON connects to a PC via a USB receiver. Dedicated software allows for recording, viewing, and exporting thickness measurements. The software displays Mould ID, Position, and Reading.
- Data Management: The software continuously records thickness data in an internal database, which can be filtered by Mould ID. Data can be exported to Excel in a
<Date>, <Time>, <Mould ID>, <Position>, <Reading> format. Individual or blocks of unwanted data can be erased from the database.
- Mould ID Indexing: After completing measurements on a mould, the Mould Index number can be incremented by moving the magnet away from the sensor head (displaying "O/R") and holding the trigger for 7 seconds.
- Error Indications: "N/M" indicates no magnet in range, "O/R" indicates out of range, and "LOW" indicates thickness decreases to zero and is out of range. "TX Error" is displayed if the receiver is not connected or out of radio range.
Maintenance Features
- Sensor Head Care: The sensor head and magnets should be kept away from computer displays and strong magnetic fields to prevent damage. High temperatures can affect accuracy. It is crucial to avoid allowing the transducer magnet to "snap" to the sensor face, as this can cause severe damage.
- Battery Replacement: The K-METRON uses a PP3 9-volt battery. To replace it, remove the cover screw, unclip the spent battery from the lid, and detach the terminals. Attach the new battery securely, insert it into the clip, and remount the cover, ensuring the battery cable is not trapped.
- Recalibration Service: Regular checks are recommended to ensure the instrument operates within its capabilities. 493K Limited offers an annual recalibration service, including return carriage, calibration, and inspection.
- Sensor Head Dock: If the sensor head is difficult to engage in the dock, a thin film of grease can be applied to the O-ring inside the dock.
To Next Page
Need help?
General