Case study

Customer needs:
HRC hardness tester to test a large variety of tubes after the induction heat treatment process. Motorized and automatic hardness tester. Test specific zones of the tube surface performing a series of indentations at various distances.

Problem:
With the need to manually perform multiple tests on tubes per day, operators are risking the accuracy of their testing ability and the capability to transmit results from the tester to the MES system are diminished. Test many tubes per day without spending time for the operator. Be sure to point the right zone of the tube with high accuracy. Have an easy procedure for the operator and reporting automatically from the tester to the MES system.

AFFRI solution:
We have manufactured the AFFRI MRS XY for Tubes, a fully automatic system where the core is the 3332MRSA measuring system. (See MRS hardness tester).
- A 1500mm motorized stage with V shape support to fit each type of tube with easy and safe fixing.
- Our exclusive software with preset testing programs and ranges of result tolerances for hard and soft zones of the same tube.
- A barcode scanner for importing the tube data in one shot. Connectivity to the MES system for automatic data storing and customizable test reports in CSV, XLM and PDF for quick printing.

RESULTS:
The AFFRI MRS XY for Tubes hardness tester, allows for automatic testing results on a variety of tubes every day. The operators are satisfied for the ease of operation of this tester and the fact that they are able to manage a large quantity of tests per day. The time saving advantages for customers using this new system has resulted in a large, fast ROI (return on investment) saving time and money.  

Main features

SELF-TESTING ALONE
 

 
The hardness tester performs each test in automatic succession. Everything is automated, freeing users for other tasks and minimizing subjectivity associated with human intervention. 

1500mm testing points
 

 
With an accuracy of +/- 0.5 μm steps, reference points for testing indentations can be positioned precisely where they are required. The table allows automatic multi-indentation test cycles with perfect positioning on the entire area.

CONTROL WITH A TOUCH
 

 
An ergonomic station with a large touchscreen and controls with input commands and emergency stop. Internal protected computer with Windows 10. USB and LAN output

SAFETY FIRST
 

 
The tube is supported by a V long plate equipped with a block limit switch for quick lock/unlock. The tube is additionally blocked during the measurements with the clamping system around the indenter. 

STATE OF THE ART SOFTWARE
 

 
Increased testing speed and accuracy and reduces manual input. The ease of operation makes this system suitable for every operator.

Command box
 

 
Test cycles can be loaded directly from a central system by means of a bar code scanner. This hardness tester receives all information fully automatically.

TECHNICAL FEATURES