In summer 2024, ZUMBACH Electronic introduced the all-new in-line induction wire PREHEATER® range. The range is built around an innovative intelligent induction power controller, ensuring stable and linear heating of conductors. According to company, this advancement enhances extrusion productivity and dramatically improves product quality. Through extensive product development, the PREHEATER® range now includes integrated wire speed sensors that automatically adjust power output, automated range selection, and smart self-monitoring capabilities. These features ensure repeatable and uniform conductor temperatures, shortening start-up times and reducing waste — key factors in boosting profitability and efficiency within manufacturing processes.
Key Features of the PREHEATER® Range:
- Material Recipes: Supports 20 different materials, with 3 fixed and 17 configurable recipes to meet specific composition and heating requirements.
- Accurate Temperature Measurement: Precisely calculates temperature increases required to heat the wire from ambient to the desired preheating temperature.
- Optional Interface: Allows connection to external temperature measuring systems, such as the ZUMBACH AUTAC 300, for closed-loop temperature control.
Designed to withstand the rigorous demands of harsh manufacturing environments, the PREHEATER® features the VISU-Touch — a rugged and compact 7” capacitive touch screen operator interface. This interface offers flexible positioning via a standardized VESA mount.
The PREHEATER® range is available in three models with power ratings of 8 kW, 16 kW, and 25 kW, covering wire diameter up to 6 mm. Each model includes an Ethernet TCP/IP service interface as standard, with additional interface options such as serial RS-232/-422/-485, Profibus DP, Profinet IO and EtherNet/IP.
AUTAC 300 – Wire temperature measurement system
The AUTAC 300 is used for temperature measurement and control in applications with conductor preheating or post annealing stages. The system consists of a sensor and a processor unit. Non-contact and precise temperature measurement with “Convective Heat Flow Principle” from 10° C to 300° C on wires and cables with a diameter range from 0.2 mm to 7 mm (.008 in. to .28 in.).
The measurement is independent of influencing factors such as colour, emission, speed, material or surface structure meaning the wire. The measuring head is slotted and can be changed without interruption, there is no need to thread the wire.