Laser Measuring Equipment

TBK Automatisierung und Messtechnik GmbH has been developing measurement technology solutions for the steel industry since 1986, in particular laser measuring systems based on the light section method. The two companies TBK and SMS group have been working closely together since 2004.
TBK offers tailor-made solutions for dimension control and surface analysis of rolled products for the long product plant range, including wire rod, bars, sections, rails, as well as tubes or semi-finished products such as continuous cast billets or blooms.
Straightness measuring equipment, especially for rails, and instruments for measuring special profiles and wheels complete the product range.

TBK uses the Light Section Method. This method allows the entire contour of the product to be examined, regardless of its shape.
The sensors developed by TBK measure up to 15,000 contours per second. Following the principle of two-dimensional triangulation, a laser line is projected onto the product surface. Diffusely reflected light provides the basis for the acquisition of cross-sections from which relevant information for controlling the rolling process can be generated.
TBK systems are able to calculate the precise cross section of the product using these values. The high-resolution and high measurement density enables the creation of a 3D model of the product, which also recognizes surface defects.

Based on the high-precision cross-section measurements, TBK systems generate precise information that is relevant for rolling process control and upload it back into the production system. Depending on the plant layout, the models are displayed on the plant operators’ workstations or are automatically analyzed by SMS group control systems to improve product quality and efficiency.

It is usually plant operators who make decisions regarding production control, and relevant and precise key performance values provide a reliable basis for this. In addition to standard, established values, TBK measurement systems provide a wide product-specific range of dimensional parameters. Tried and  tested algorithms that have proven to be effective are used to generate performance values from the measured contour data.

The aim of all mill operators is to maintain stable mill operation with high time utilization and consistent product quality. A fully automated system of production control and data collection is a basic requirement of digitalization. Furthermore, to adjust and adapt the process according to different conditions, process data or production and process data are required in addition to data on the product conditions. The TBK gauge collects data on the condition of the finished product including its geometry, shape, dimensions, surface conditions, and on the temperature or rolling speed.