Raman spectrometers provide IIoT connectivity.

Integrated Raman spectroscopy analyzers provide highly accurate in situ measurements while providing 24/7 connectivity to critical data.

The embedded Kaiser Raman Rxn analyzer suite, featuring intuitive Raman* RunTime embedded control software has been released by Kaiser Optical Systems, an Endress+Hauser company.

Researchers and manufacturers in the chemical, polymer, pharmaceutical, biopharmaceutical, and food & beverage industries require highly accurate chemical composition measurements. In the past, Raman spectrometers required the use of separate stand-alone computers hosting the software needed to convert raw measurements into usable data. Because of installation and system limitations, measurements often took place offline in a controlled laboratory setting, limiting accuracy and lab-to-process scalability.

In contrast, this embedded analyzer collects in situ process measurements, enabling real-time process monitoring, optimization, and control. With this 24/7 automation, companies can maintain a continuous pulse on the safety, quality, and efficiency of their operations—whether in laboratory or manufacturing settings. Kaiser Raman Rxn analyzers perform self-monitoring and self-diagnostics to ensure the validity of each measurement, and to enable seamless model transferability and equipment scalability from lab-to-process.

This latest Raman Rxn portfolio, comprised of the Raman Rxn2 and Rxn4 base analyzer models, integrates analyzer and control software in a fixed purpose device with built-in intelligence. Kaiser Raman technology also communicates with external systems over networks using standard automation protocols, providing companies with reliable chemical composition measurement with secure 24/7 connectivity. By doing so, the analyzers enable an Industry 4.0 strategy of increased data security, system integration, and automated communication.

To ease maintenance, Raman Rxn2 and Rxn4 analyzers perform self-calibration, utilizing spectral correction methods in applications when periodic system calibration is not required. Additionally, they provide flexible installation options including benchtop, mobile wheeled cart, and rack-mounted, or in stainless-steel enclosures for lab, pilot plant, or dedicated manufacturing applications. The rugged analyzers and applicable sampling probes are also certified for installation in hazardous areas.

Kaiser Raman embedded analyzers can be configured with 532, 785, or 1000 nanometer excitation wavelengths, with the ability to measure up to four channels. Measurements can be taken inline, online, or at-line. Common applications include analyzing material quality, monitoring molecular reactions, aiding basic science research, assuring quality, and identifying unknowns.

The analyzer’s built-in software provides 24/7 connectivity to process data via a user-friendly touchscreen or through a remote interface. Raman RunTime integrates measurement with analyzer electronics, eliminating the need for a separate PC and software to interpret measurements. It conveys either raw or processed data and diagnostics over standard communication protocols—including OPC and Modbus—to assure data integrity and compatibility with third-party devices.

Data may be collected manually, continuously, or periodically—with support for embedded predictors. The analyzers’ controller technology is designed for inherent security as a fixed-purpose device to minimize inadvertent or malicious user interaction. Additionally, it does not interact with low level operating systems because all control functions are directed via the software user interface. It also provides user management, password protection for privileged analyzer functionality, and built-in antivirus software to minimize potential malware points of entry.

Kaiser Raman technology supports the needs of Industry 4.0 with smart power controls, enhanced diagnostics, remote laser interlock, robust fiber connections, and automation input/outputs. By delivering highly accurate, real-time, in situ chemical composition measurements and 24/7 connectivity, the Kaiser Raman Rxn embedded analyzer portfolio helps companies reach new heights of operational excellence.

*What is Raman spectroscopy? (Wikipedia)

@Endress_Hauser @Endress_US @Endress_UK @kaiser_raman #PAuto #Laboratory, 

Anti-bribery standard achieved.

Ixthus Instrumentation has recently completed the comprehensive due diligence process for TRACEcertification* and gained full approval from the world leading anti-bribery standard setting organization. Initiated through its distribution partnership with Kaman Precision Products,  TRACEcertification demonstrates Ixthus’ commitment to commercial transparency through its dealings with suppliers and customers alike.

As part of the certification process, Ixthus received TRACE’s comprehensive anti-bribery compliance training and a verified due diligence report is available from the TRACE Intermediary Directory.

Kaman Precision Products Inc., is a USA based designer and manufacturer of precision, inductive Eddy current position measurement systems that are widely applied in military and aerospace industries, and in many other challenging application areas. With ISO 9001-200 certification and Satellite Industry Association (SiA) membership, Kaman is also a leading sensor specialist for cryogenics, high-vacuum, radiation tolerance and other severe environment position measurement tasks. Ixthus Instrumentation has a long association with Kaman providing a complete UK-based, engineer-to-engineer consultancy and service across Kaman’s comprehensive product range.

Ixthus works closely with Kaman and, over several years, has developed a high level of application expertise for its non-contact displacement sensor technologies - providing comprehensive sales and support at component level or for complete instrumentation systems. Ixthus’ knowledgeable technical staff are on hand to assist with measurement solutions - from the first enquiry, to supply and to after-sales support. 

* Trace International is a global anti-bribery association.

@IxthusInst @KamanSensors @TRACE_Inc @mepaxIntPR #Pauto #Integrity

High reliability fast beam-steering mirror control systems.

Kaman Precision Products' recently launched high-reliability version of its fast beam-steering mirror measurement system is now available with full support from Ixthus Instrumentation. The upgraded KD-5100+ enables high-precision position feedback for control systems used in mirror steering and scanning tasks for laser communications on satellites and ground stations, airborne and shipborne directed energy systems and image stabilisation systems.

Typical inductive sensor configurations used with the KD-5100+ include Kaman’s 15N or 20N series offering non contacting measurement ranges of +/- 0.9 mm and +/- 1.9 mm respectively. Arranged in precisely matched pairs on the X and Y mirror axes with each pair acting as a balanced bridge circuit on either side of the mirror, these sensors detect the differential distance as the mirror rotates about its pivot, providing an output voltage from the KD5100+ which is proportional to the mirror’s angular displacement. The resulting resolution and precision for each axis is in the sub-micro radian range - providing the means for exceptional accuracy.

The KD5100+ measurement system features an operating temperature range of -20°C to +60°C (sensors are -52°C to +105°C) with excellent thermal and long term stability in a small and easily installed package size. The highly durable measurement system is designed for long trouble-free operational life for maximum high-reliability usage.

The upgraded KD5011+ features an identical Mil-PRF-38534 Class H proprietary hybrid microcircuit as the KD5100 ‘standard’ version with the addition of high-rel diodes and capacitors plus an upgraded aerospace specification for circuit layout, ground connections and sensor connectors. The KD5100 is already providing nanometre level precision for control systems used, for example, in laser focussing for micro-column architecture in semiconductor wafer manufacture as well as precision long-range telescope positioning and many other applications were differential inductive measurement is contributing to an advance in precision measurement technology.

Throughout ISO 9001-200 certified Kaman’s comprehensive range of sensors and measurement systems, customisation is available for application areas as diverse as cryogenics, high-vacuum, radiation tolerance or other severe environment position measurement tasks across all types of industry and research settings. A lower cost industrial specification version for fast beam steering mirror position control, utilising inductive eddy current sensors, is also available as the Kaman DIT-5200. Ixthus Instrumentation provide complete service from the first enquiry to delivery and after sales support for Kaman’s specialised range of products.

• Bolstering its commitment for aerospace related applications across its wide range of inductive sensors and measurement systems, Kaman recently took affiliate membership with the Satellite Industry Association (SIA) – the USA based organisation that provides support and representation for operators, service providers and equipment suppliers for the commercial satellite industry.

@IxthusInst @KamanSensors @mepaxIntPR #PAuto #Transportation

Eddy current sensor.

Kaman has announced a cost-optimised PCB version of its popular and well proven KD-2306 series eddy current linear displacement instrument for integration into volume OEM applications requiring precise linear measurement.

This instrument, available with full support from Ixthus Instrumentation Ltd, is factory configured and calibrated to specific customer requirements and paired for use with any of the comprehensive range of Kaman Eddy Current sensor models. Designed for straightforward installation and easy integration into the customer’s machine, the compact board includes connectors for single- or dual-coil sensors and front accessible course and fine calibration controls plus screw terminal I/O connections. Options include non-standard range/target material, temperature compensation, hermetically sealed cable connection and more.

Kaman’s eddy current sensor range includes over 30 dual and single coil models in shielded or unshielded designs for precision measurement from 0.5 mm to 60 mm and with typical resolution to 0.01% FS and linearity to 1% FS. These nanometre resolution displacement sensors can be selected for operation in air or through various non-metallic materials and to suit temperatures ranging from cryogenic to +200 ºC. A wide choice of cabling and connection options are available with further customisation available for volume applications.

Minimum specifications for the OEM-2306 will include a resolution of 0.01 %FS and linearity to less than 1 %FS. A 50 kHz frequency response ensures fast data measurement and output options of 0-10 VDC and 0-5 VDC ensure flexibility in use.

Kaman’s eddy current sensors and compatible signal conditioning electronics are a compelling and cost effective alternative to LVDTs, air gauges, dial indicators and micrometer measuring systems. With the ability to withstand the harshest of environments, the robust and durable sensors feature an inherently long life and require extremely low maintenance. Applications span research and industry from engine dynamics to machine tools and from semiconductor manufacture to packaging machines.

@IxthusInst  #PAuto @KamanSensors