THE IQLINE-G FLOAT
During the 2010 edition of glasstec, Grenzebach concluded many open contracts for its new inspection system – the IQLine-G Float – which proved both practical and successful during testing and provides continuous quality control at the cold end of the float glass line with safe detection and classification of defects.
The high detection performance of the system also provides for reliable classification of typical defects such as bubbles, inclusions, scratches, cracks, particles, tin spatters, indentations, stains, knots and distortions as well as other productive features. An on-line detection system permanently monitors th glass edge and detects the position and the width of the top roller traces over the complete glass thickness range. This information is shown directly in the on-line defect visualization. In addition, the detected values can be transmitted to other external measuring systems, in order to calculate the gross and net tonnage more accurately, for example.An integrated, flexible defect classifier clearly distinguishes between real defects and pseudo-defects, such as dust or glass which is not lying in a stable position. This combines together with Grenzebach cutting control to ensure an optimum glass production yield. Outstanding features of the IQLine-G Float include not only detection performance and reliability, but also uncomplicated and quick installation of the system.

Installation and adjustment
The installation and rough adj...

THE IQLINE-G FLOAT
During the 2010 edition of glasstec, Grenzebach concluded many open contracts for its new inspection system – the IQLine-G Float – which proved both practical and successful during testing and provides continuous quality control at the cold end of the float glass line with safe detection and classification of defects.
The high detection performance of the system also provides for reliable classification of typical defects such as bubbles, inclusions, scratches, cracks, particles, tin spatters, indentations, stains, knots and distortions as well as other productive features. An on-line detection system permanently monitors th glass edge and detects the position and the width of the top roller traces over the complete glass thickness range. This information is shown directly in the on-line defect visualization. In addition, the detected values can be transmitted to other external measuring systems, in order to calculate the gross and net tonnage more accurately, for example.An integrated, flexible defect classifier clearly distinguishes between real defects and pseudo-defects, such as dust or glass which is not lying in a stable position. This combines together with Grenzebach cutting control to ensure an optimum glass production yield. Outstanding features of the IQLine-G Float include not only detection performance and reliability, but also uncomplicated and quick installation of the system.

Installation and adjustment
The installation and rough adjustment of the system generally require only a few hours. By means of an innovative solution developed at Grenzebach, exact adjustment of the system can be carried out while the glass ribbon is running, and, therefore, without interfering with the production process. This procedure can be executed automatically, semi-automatically or manually. For this purpose, the focus level of the system is changed to a target (control), which is mounted above the glass level. Fine adjustment is made by means of a motor and can be controlled via the client network.
Furthermore, the operator is not required to work above the glass ribbon. After the adjustment sequence, the focus level is again set onto the glass ribbon and regular inspection can be started.

Durable and maintenance-free components
The use of durable and maintenance-free components and modules essentially contributes to a reduction in the operating costs of the inspection system. Should some components require replacement, effects on the production process are minimized by means of intelligent solutions. Illuminations are arranged on telescopic rail systems; the LED elements can be replaced as separate modules on site. Both replacement and adjustment of cameras can be made during glass production. In this case, a cooling system is required for operation of the inspection systems, it will be conceived as a closed-loop, low-maintenance system.

System operations
The system offers intuitive operation. After installation, there is practically no need to further operate or parameterize the system. Adaptation to different glass widths, glass thicknesses or glass drift is carried out automatically. If new defect types or defect size classes need to be defined, this can easily be done by means of the user interface. No software update is needed. In a situation where the inspection system communicates with a cutting controller, no separate defect representation is required, as all relevant defect data are transferred to the cutting controller. Of course it is always possible to display and review all defect data, the respective details as well as the defect patterns. Where defects with new features or optimization of the parameter setting are necessary, the respective defect patterns can be applied onto the glass ribbon. The patterns do not have to be exactly aligned for this purpose. In a special operating mode of the inspection system, it is then possible to detect the defects on the patterns and to arrange the equipment parameters accordingly. Extensive interfaces transfer the inspection results to subsequent and overriding systems. There are interfaces to the cutting controllers as well as towards static and traversing marking systems. Besides, it is possible to integrate systems for thickness, temperature and stress measurement.

Optional SQL database system
By means of an optional SQL database system, it is possible to subsequently analyze, systematize and statically process the inspection results using client software. Long-term data files can be analyzed without influencing the running inspection. Access to the database is of course also possible via the external ODBC Clients. The database maintenance and the backup of the database can be done automatically, according to the pre-set criteria or manually. The system allows easy scaling for all widths of float lines and provides the following technical performance features:
- configured widths of up to 4,900 millimetres, other widths available according to specification;
- resolution approx. 130 µm;
- material speed up to 30 metres per minute;
- glass thickness up to 25 millimetres, bigger thicknesses available according to specification;
- space requirements in advance direction approximately 1,000 millimetres.