SKZ: Testing plastic products using THz and radar measurement technology
The SKZ uses THz and radar technology for precise inline measurement of the layer thickness of plastic products. The methods enable non-contact and depth-effective quality control and thus support reliable process monitoring in industrial production.
Geometry measurements are an important component of modern quality assurance for plastic products. The inline measurement of the layer thickness of pipes or the analysis of multi-layer composite systems makes it possible to check and, if necessary, correct dimensional accuracy. The SKZ Plastics Center uses terahertz (THz) and radar technology for this purpose, which is opening up an increasing number of application areas in the course of increasing automation and in the context of Industry 4.0 in cooperation with industry. As plastics often have opaque properties and geometry measurement by eye only allows an imprecise analysis, specific methods are used to analyze the correct dimensional accuracy and the absence of manufacturing errors. This ensures that the quality of the products meets high standards. However, these methods often fail due to factors such as one-sided access, the need for non-contact measurements, foamed structures, the high cost of the measuring system and insufficient penetration depth. Despite these challenges, two measurement methods have become established: THz and radar technology.
Detecting manufacturing defects using THz and radar measurement methods
The SKZ, a member of the ZUSE community, uses these measurement methods to determine the optimum solution in cooperation with industry and taking into account its specific challenges. Challenges such as the identification of manufacturing defects in production, the minimization of tolerances to save material as well as complete documentation and verification can be solved through the use of THz and radar technology. This enables continuous progress towards networked working environments in the course of digitalization. As both measurement technologies do not require radiation protection and can also be used flexibly, they can easily be used in existing production facilities to accompany the process. The SKZ supports companies in integrating the measurement technology into their production facilities.