Optical Interface
Optical hardware combines the principles of transmission and reflection to analyze the chemical properties of a liquid or solid sample. A transflectance probe uses a reflective surface placed at a fixed distance from the light source to pass the light through the sample twice. This design is used in near-infrared spectroscopy to monitor the composition of coating colors and sizing solutions in a mill.
Process Integration
The probe can be inserted directly into a pipe or a tank, providing continuous real-time data without the need for manual sampling. Because the transflectance probe has a fixed path length, it provides a very stable and repeatable measurement of the concentration of solids or specific chemicals. This allows for immediate adjustments to the dosing system if the mixture deviates from the target.
The robust construction of the housing protects the delicate optics from the harsh conditions of the production environment.
Fluid Analysis
Dual path light travel increases the sensitivity of the measurement for clear or lightly colored liquids where a single pass might not provide enough signal. In the context of paper manufacturing, the transflectance probe is necessary for ensuring the consistency of the starch and pigment suspensions applied at the size press. If the coating is too thin or too thick, the probe detects the change in absorption and triggers a correction.
This ensures that the surface properties of the board remain uniform throughout the entire production run.
