On line non-contact thickness measurement of flat rolled metals

Technology for highly accurate, reliable, easily maintainable, and extremely user-friendly noncontact thickness measurement for flat-rolling and processing applications is described. The technology is based on the principle of material absorption or attenuation of radiation in a controlled instrument. The thickness gage that performs this measurement is an integral part of the control loop system, ensuring product quality control and efficient process operation. It can be used to achieve tight thickness tolerances, improve yield, and optimize mill and process line operation. A discussion is presented of the radiation sources and detectors; signal processing input and output; compensation to eliminate measurement errors; indication, display, and data recording; communication; and profile measurement.<>