Eddy Current Sorting of parts

• Automatic selection of optimum test frequency (1 of 48)

• Automatic freak recognition

• Automatic generation of tolerance fields

• Easy to operate, even by semi-skilled personnel

• High-speed testing within milliseconds

• Maximum stability by automatic self-calibration

The inexpensive approach to eddy current technology

The eddysort® is an eddy current instrument specifically designed for versatility in production line testing for material mix, heat treatment (hardness, case depth, temper, etc.), sinter density and structure variations.

The eddysort® principle of operation is based on the well-known single-frequency method. Operation is supported by a full on-board computer and user-friendly software to simplify calibration and sort procedures.

Use of leading edge electronic techniques allows extremely short testing times.

Opto-isolated interfacing integrates the eddysort® into automatic inspection lines.


Application versatility is an in-built feature with a wide range of accessories available to adapt the instrument to numerous applications. Different mounting arrangements are available.

THE ULTIMATE IN SINGLE-FREQUENCY METHOD TESTING

During calibration, known reference parts are tested over a broad frequency band (1:100 - 1:3000). Typical impedance curves develop, which are influenced by various metallurgical characteristics (alloy, structure, etc.) of the 7-15 OK parts. For automatic selection of the optimum test frequency, material data of NOK parts with different material structure must be recorded. The integrated software checks the eddy current properties of all parts and automatically suggests the optimum test frequency. Operating procedures from “calibration” to "sorting" are extremely simple in the eddysort®.

SORTING

The test parts are sorted into “OK” and “NOT OK” lots. Test results are displayed by red or green sort indicator lamps. The sorting decision is available at optically isolated outputs. After each test, measured values are statistically evaluated in numerical and percentage forms.

INTERNAL DATA STORAGE

Up to 6 complete instrument set-ups may be stored for future access.

EXTERNAL DATA STORAGE

Permits storage of set-up parameters on external “Memory Plug” (EEPROM) for transfer to other eddysort® units, simply by plugging in the Memory Plug at the front panel.

DOCUMENTATION

The eddysort® is equipped with a Centronics interface for communication with external printers to provide hardcopy print-outs of test results.

RS232 / V24

An RS 232 / V 24 interface permits communication with separate main-frame computers to
perform statistical analysis (SPC) of accumulated data.

OPTO INTERFACE

Permits input of external control signals and transfer of sorting decisions to peripheral accessories. For example, starting of measurement by light barriers, transfer of sorting decision to sorting gate, visual and acoustic alarm signals.

COILS/PROBES

Suitable coils and probes are available for all applications. Standard transducers cover a wide range of applications. Special coils and probes can be develped for specific frequency ranges and part dimensions.

ENCLOSURE OPTIONS

The following enclosures are available for the eddysort®:

• desktop P/N 84200

• rack mounting housing P/N 84210

TECHNICAL DATA