CPT International 02/2017

In the manufacture of castings, the molten
metal’s temperature is still often
measured manually with immersion
thermometers. For measuring, the immersion
probe is dipped into the melt.
A new element is necessary for each
measurement. Because of costs of about
1 US-dollar (0.9 euro) per element, the
mere running costs reach several thousand
dollars a year. Excluding costs for
the operating personnel.
With the modern CellaTemp PT 183
infrared thermometer from Keller HCW,
Ibbenbüren-Laggenbeck, Germany, the
operator of the casting machine can
now measure infrared radiation – and
thus the temperature of the molten
metal – without contact and from a safe
distance. The device, specially developed
for measuring molten metals, can
detect the correct temperature of slag
and oxide-free surfaces within seconds
due to its intelligent filter function. The
two-color or dual wavelength measuring
method ensures stable and accurate
temperature readings, despite dust and
smoke in the field of view. The rectangular
measuring area of the pyrometer
also contributes towards reliable measurement,
even in a fluctuating pouring
stream.
The portable CellaTemp PT 183 is
used at the runner of blast and cupola
furnaces, when pouring into the ladle,
and especially when pouring the melt
into molds. This measuring location, in
particular, is decisive for the process and
enables the control and documentation
of compliance with the permitted pouring
temperature for each casting produced.
Proof of compliance with the necessary
pouring temperature cannot be
provided because the temperature is
measured using immersion probes in
the furnace or ladle before filling. Complex
components have a scrap rate well
over 10 %. Measurement with the pyrometer
can reduce the scrap rate to below
3 %. The resulting cost savings amount
to several thousand dollars a month, depending
on output quantities.
Fixed measuring systems with connection
to central data acquisition are
available on the market. The CellaTemp
PT 183 mobile device is used for quick
checks in between. A patented traffic
light status indicator, integrated in the
viewfinder, tells the user the optimum
measuring distance.
In contrast to immersion thermometers,
infrared thermometers are wearfree,
maintenance-free and extremely
long-lived. Investment costs are therefore
amortized in 2 - 3 months.
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