Upgrade kit for GFM – Glass Flow Meter systemThe GFM system has been on the market for more than twentyfive years. The concept is a success and is implemented in most glass wool manufacturing plants around the world. Over the years the system has been undergoing continuous development to adopt it to the latest technology and demands.
The GFM system with hand held terminal and printer is today an overdue version. Even though it still performs well in many plants, time may have come for replacement. A number of components used in the initial version, are no longer produced and hard to find on the replacement market. As a result possible repair is questionable.
The upgrade is made by changing the CPU rack and equip it with updated computer boards. The display and printer panel will be replaced by a 19” TFT touch screen panel. Each camera will be equipped with updated mother and array boards. All other existing parts of the GFM system can be kept intact and used as earlier.
The GFM upgrade kit assures the following advantages:- Increase sensitivity reading bubbles in the glass
- Minimise risk of condensation related problems in the camera
- Increase accuracy of measurement
- Improved communication interface (Operator’s Interface - HMI)
- Add-on function of CMM – Camera Maintenance Manager
With the upgraded system following information will be made available from the Operator’s Interface:- Glass Flow in lbs, kg or tonnes/day
- Glass Flow charts – displays 24 h glass flow trends
- Pull check / Camera calibration
- Camera, Analogue outputs and Database configuration
- Camera positioning and rack status (see CMM below)
- Glass stream temperature, if pyrometers are installed
CMM – Camera Maintenance Manager
gives information related to the position of the cameras, both laterally (aiming) and depthwise (focus). It also detects where the front lens of the camera is dirty.The information is presented graphically through green/red bars on the system’s touch screen HMI. The Camera Maintenance Manager also gives information about the temperature within the CPU rack and the status of the voltage of the power supplies. This will ensure optimal performance and extend the life time of the equipment.
An upgraded GFM system minimise the risk of production interruptions.
