Citation
(1998), "Control system for thermal spraying", Anti-Corrosion Methods and Materials, Vol. 45 No. 1. https://doi.org/10.1108/acmm.1998.12845aad.003
Publisher
:Emerald Group Publishing Limited
Copyright © 1998, MCB UP Limited
Control system for thermal spraying
Control system for thermal spraying
Sulzer Metco, of Farnborough, Hants, has launched a new control system for thermal spraying which the company claims is an advance on anything known previously.
Branded Multicoat, the controller integrates all the previous controllers for the three different spray methods; flame combustion, plasma spray or high-velocity oxy-fuel (HVOF). It also provides a choice and interchangeability for the operator between various spray guns, powder feeders, gas preferences and so on. If the user upgrades his equipment, new modular software is provided with it so that the controller is updated and thus the investment is protected from becoming obsolete.
The controller has a twin brain design, combining a PC computer and PLC controls linking all components. The process is visualised on screen with touch screen graphics and fingertip control. So it is easy to program and operate. The system warns against possible operator faults. The controller can be linked into the user's own network so that equipment can be controlled remotely.
All data relating to choices of equipment, materials and parameters for a particular project are logged and stored like a recipe, so they can be repeated. A record of all spray runs is logged and processing of data can be easily programmed to give printouts according to the user's need. For example, a standard printout includes quality control information, according to the ISO 9001 protocol so the user's own customer can add them to his quality control records. The system also advises on planned maintenance for each component of the user's spray systems, logging hours in use, likely wear and so on. Exploded views of parts on screen enable spares to be ordered direct from the controller to Sulzer Metco by modem.
The controller can be operated in the user's custom language or in standard English, French, German or Japanese.
Details from Sulzer, Farnborough, Hampshire GU14 7LP.