Special Measurement Instruments

Unlike manual inspection methods that disrupt production, Riftek’s specialized measurement systems operate inline and in real time. They allow manufacturers to monitor dimensions — from the thickness of high-speed gypsum boards to the diameter of microscopic wires — continuously, enabling instant detection of deviations and preventing defective materials from advancing through the production chain.

Dimensional Control Technologies and Principles

Measuring the geometry of moving materials like sheet goods, motor shafts, or packing straps requires advanced optical technologies. Riftek special measurement instruments solve these challenges by utilizing light-based methods, including laser triangulation, and the "shadow" principle, to eliminate physical contact.

The 3DGipsumB system, for example, utilizes a network of 2D laser scanners and point sensors to measure boards as they move along a conveyor. For finer applications, our online systems for control and regulation of diameter utilize optical micrometers to track wire, hoses, and tubes. Optical diameter measurement ensures high-resolution data while removing the risk of deformation or contamination inherent in contact-based gauges.

Whether using an edge sensor to monitor the position of substrates or an automated system for tapes geometry measurement, these instruments are unaffected by material texture or production speed. They provide consistent, traceable results even when measuring hot objects or delicate laminated tubes.

Comprehensive Measurement Ranges and Specialized Systems

Riftek offers a diverse catalog of instruments designed for specific industrial geometries and material types:

• Thickness Measurement Systems. Available in various configurations (C-frame or roller-based), these systems measure sheet materials like rubber, plates, and boards with micron-level precision.
• Shaft and Motor Components. Specialized machines for motor shafts and shaft geometry measurement provide ±2 µm accuracy for diameter, length, and overall geometric values.
• Small Component Inspection. Dedicated systems for flat washer (spacer) thickness and Johnson filters ensure that even the smallest interwire gaps meet strict tolerances.
• Extreme Environments. Laser systems for hot objects allow for the operational control of slab dimensions during rough rolling, where heat prevents the use of traditional tools.
• Debris and Hole Inspection. Laser debris inspection systems provide non-contact detection of contaminants and precise hole verification in complex assemblies.

Technical Characteristics and Capabilities

Modern special measurement instruments deliver outstanding technical performance across multiple channels. Key characteristics include fast sampling rates, digital data processing, and industrial-grade stability. Advanced systems like the multichannel displacement measurement system support multiple subsystems with measurement errors as low as 2 μm.

These instruments are built for versatility; parameters can be customized for specific tasks, such as measuring foil thickness and seam width in laminated tubes. Many systems include a central computer or industrial panel computer with dedicated software to perform statistical analysis, display real-time warnings, and manage tolerance evaluation. High-performance IR lasers are also utilized in specific models to ensure stable measurement in environments with water vapor or high temperatures.

Integration and Operation in Production Environments

Riftek special measurement instruments are designed for turn-key integration into existing production lines. From the mixer and molding stage to the final slicing of gypsum boards, these systems provide a continuous flow of data to central computers and additional operator terminals.

Thanks to their non-contact principle, these systems require minimal maintenance and offer long-term operational stability. A thickness measurement system or a width measurement system can be configured for closed-loop process control, providing immediate feedback to production machinery to adjust parameters automatically. This seamless connectivity is essential for Industry 4.0 environments, where automated, data-driven regulation is the standard for quality excellence.

Industries Using Special Measurement Instruments

Specialized laser and optical measurement systems are utilized across a vast range of manufacturing sectors:

• Construction Materials. For gypsum board, tape, and plate production.
• Metalworking and Machinery. For shaft measurement, spacer inspection, and hot slab rolling.
• Packaging and Plastics. For packing straps, laminated tubes, and extrusion lines.
• Electronics and Precision Components. For edge sensing and debris inspection.
• Food and Medical. For diameter control of hoses, tubes, and sausage casings.

Advantages of Riftek Special Measurement Solutions

Riftek special measurement instruments combine advanced sensor technology with robust system architecture. Our solutions are engineered to meet demanding industrial requirements while delivering accurate, traceable results over long periods of operation.

Key advantages include turn-key implementation, flexible sensor configurations (such as one-sensor or two-sensor thickness schemes), and specialized software for real-time monitoring. If you are looking for a high-stability tool to measure thickness, width, or complex shaft geometry, Riftek provides the expertise to design the perfect measurement system for your facility.