Metrology

This new acoustic imaging camera helps professional inspectors locate smaller compressed air leaks. FLIR, a Teledyne Technologies company, has introduced the Si1-LD, an industrial acoustic imaging camera that provides faster and more accurate compressed air leak detection for those on a modest condition monitoring budget. The new FLIR Si1-LD offers enhanced detection and quantification capabilities compared to the existing FLIR Si124-LD Plus, as well as a higher upper frequency limit. Compressed air systems typically lose 25–30% of their air due to leaks, leading to proportionally higher energy bills, costly unplanned production stoppages, shorter compressor lifespans, the need to purchase additional compressor capacity, and increased maintenance expenses for the extra equipment. Leveraging the advantages of ultrasonic technology, the new FLIR Si1-LD pinpoints leaks with enhanced imaging sensitivity at an affordable price. It offers several stand-out capabilities and features: An array of 96 microphones (2–100 kHz) enables the automatic detection, location, and measurement of compressed air and vacuum leaks from a safe distance of up to 130 metres. It is supported by a 12MP colour camera with 8× digital zoom…

Utilising a unique processing technology, the QuantuMike features a wider thread pitch. This enables the spindle to move at 2.0mm per rotation—four times faster than typical micrometres. This allows quick and efficient measurements, making it ideal for tasks requiring multiple dimension checks. The QuantuMike offers a maximum permissible error (Jmpe) of just ±1µm, ensuring it meets the requirements of high-precision workpieces. With an IP65 protection rating, this micrometer is water- and dust-resistant, capable of withstanding tough environments where exposure to coolant and debris is common. The ratchet thimble mechanism ensures stable, one-handed operation, providing tactile feedback through ratcheting sounds to confirm secure measurements. The speeder ratchet facilitates rapid spindle feed, enhancing efficiency. An approach speed warning function helps prevent damage from excessive speed, with a flashing display to alert users. Calibration management is made easier with warning alerts for upcoming calibration dates, ensuring your device remains accurate and reliable. The display is more extensive and easier to read from any angle, featuring clear measurement values and icons. Larger buttons enhance usability, and key operations can be customised for…

Advanced Navigation, a world leader in navigation and autonomous systems, has announced the expansion of its versatile Certus range, with the new Mini series. Available in three variants, the Certus Mini series includes a GNSS-aided Certus Mini D and Certus Mini N inertial navigation system (INS), while Certus Mini A functions as an attitude and heading reference system (AHRS). Weighing no more than 55 grams, the series delivers impressive performance and cost-efficiency, defying expectations for its weight and size. Advanced Navigation CEO Chris Shaw said, “Manufacturers and system integrators often face trade-offs between performance, size, cost, and weight. The Certus Mini series is a testament that these attributes do not need to conflict. This value-driven breakthrough lowers the entry barrier to precise and reliable navigation for customers deploying land-based vehicles. It also unlocks new possibilities for lightweight airborne platforms, such as drones, where every gram counts towards flight efficiency and power consumption. Designed with flexibility in mind, the series is easily integrated into existing and new system builds with simple plug-and-play…

Many factors contribute to the successful manufacture of vacuum windows. Understanding and using cutting-edge technology, quality control via state-of-the-art metrology tools, and material properties are critical to their design and manufacture. Combined with a culture of innovation and in-depth and broad experience in precision optics manufacture, these technical capabilities can be honed to ensure optimal vacuum window manufacturing. What are vacuum windows? Vacuum windows are components designed to separate different environments while allowing light to pass through. They are commonly used in applications where a controlled atmosphere, such as a vacuum, must be maintained on one side of the window while allowing optical observation or the passage of laser beams. They are made from materials with high transparency to specific wavelengths of light and excellent mechanical strength. Common materials including fused silica (known for its low thermal expansion and high transparency in the ultraviolet to infrared range), sapphire (extremely hard and durable, suitable for harsh environments), borosilicate (excellent thermal resistance, low thermal expansion, and high chemical durability); and Zinc Sulfide (high transparency…