THE E-PAC SERIES 2100 ELECTRONIC PRECISION ACQUISITION CALIPER

THE E-PAC SERIES 2100 ELECTRONIC PRECISION ACQUISITION CALIPER IS A SADDLE TYPE ROLL MICROMETER WHICH MEASURES AND RECORDS THE PROFILE OF A ROLL.

In the production of rolled sheet products, (metal, paper, fiber), the outside contour or shape, defined as the profile, of the of the work rolls is critical for product quality.

To measure the roll profile the instrument in general use for over 80 years has been the analog SADDLE TYPE ROLL MICROMETER. This is a four-wheeled saddle frame, which is set on top of a work roll and moved, or "skated" from one end of the roll to the other. The Saddle has a crossbar and scales that span the roll to position a counter weight and an analog dial indicator at the roll diameter. As the unit is skated measurements are taken visually from the dial indicator at approximately 18-inch intervals with profile readings in the .001 inch range.

In the 1980s the need for higher product quality and closer tolerances led to the use of electronic units. The analog dial indicator was replaced by a LVDT, (linear variable data transducer), feeding an onboard mini computer. These units are capable of reading and storing measurements at .1 inch intervals with accuracy in the .0001 inch range. This data is then down loaded and printed out in graphic form. All units presently available use a standard saddle micrometer with a box containing the mini computer mounted on brackets.

For 30 years Wilbar Manufacturing Company has produced the best of these analog type saddle micrometers. Various American manufacturers have used these units for conversion to electronics.

In late 1998 Wilbar began a project to develop a totally innovative roll micrometer. The concept was for a unit designed from the ground up as an electronic unit, not just a conversion. During development, Harford Industries became associated with the project and acquired the rights to it in August of 1999.

The result is the E-PAC Series 2100. The "box" containing the data acquisition module is designed as the saddle frame itself resulting in a compactness, balance, and unique visual appeal. The electronics are state of the art and are PC based, (a first), which makes possible the manipulation and presentation of data in a user-friendly manner. It also allows for future up-grades such as roll diameter, surface finish, and temperature.

Harford Industries introduced the E-PAC Series 2100 in November of 1999 as a total package that includes the electronic roll micrometer and touch screen computer console. The console mounts on a locking 11 gauge steel cabinet with printer shelf, inside locking storage area, and an adjustable micrometer rest. This package costs less than the conversion electronic micrometers now on the market.

In August 1999 Harford Industries also acquired the rights to Wilbar analog roll micrometers. These are also produced and sold. Harford Industries provides service and repair on these units.