Weight Sensing Devices
Weight sensing devices check the weight of newly produced zinc die castings directly within the automated parts flow. The casting reaches the weighing plate from the machine or via a chute, is measured and then transferred onward according to the result.
A deviation from the stored target weight may indicate an incomplete casting, adhering material, an incorrect number of parts or another process deviation. Weight inspection provides a rapid control signal but does not replace subsequent root-cause analysis.
The tolerance window separates accepted parts from deviations
A target weight with a permitted lower and upper deviation is stored for each casting. If the measured value lies outside this window, the device can discharge the part separately and transmit a signal to the machine or cell control system.
What can a weight deviation indicate?
The device detects a deviation but does not automatically identify its cause. The measurement signal should therefore be evaluated together with the die condition, casting parameters, extraction process and parts flow.
The complete inspection cycle
Weight inspection must take place within the machine cycle. Component feeding, measurement, evaluation and discharge are therefore treated as one connected sequence.
Construction of an electro-pneumatic weight sensing device
The basic construction appears simple but must withstand rapid, repetitive loads, falling castings and reliable weight measurement over long production periods.
Which data determine the suitable weight sensing device?
A used device should not be selected based solely on its manufacturer and year of manufacture. Component weight, weighing surface, cycle time, transfer points, discharge concept and the existing control system are decisive.
- Measuring range
- The lightest and heaviest inspection parts must lie within the permitted weighing range. A suitable reserve and the actual casting cluster must also be considered.
- Weight tolerance
- The smallest reliably detectable deviation must match the process weight variation and the intended inspection objective.
- Weighing plate
- The length, width, side-wall height and tilting geometry must receive the component securely without it becoming jammed or falling out prematurely.
- Weighing time
- Measurement, evaluation and discharge must take place within the available time window without creating a backlog extending to the die casting machine.
- Component feeding
- The discharge chute, extractor unit or conveyor belt must transfer the component reproducibly and with a suitable drop distance onto the plate.
- Discharge direction
- Accepted parts and parts outside the tolerance require clearly defined routes to containers, conveyors or downstream inspection stations.
- Compressed air
- With a pneumatic plate drive, the operating pressure, air quality, valve equipment and available supply at the new site must be suitable.
- Control system
- Electrical signals, plug connections, operating voltage, machine releases and safety logic must be coordinated with the existing hot chamber system.
PPW 3000 for Zinc Die Casting
In addition to used weight sensing devices, FISS also offers new PPW systems in different configurations. The following values show example specifications of selected PPW 3000 models.
What weight inspection can achieve — and what it cannot
A weight sensing device is an effective element of production monitoring. However, the inspection objective, tolerance and process limits must be clearly defined for a reliable quality decision.
Weight sensing devices within hot chamber automation
Weight inspection is typically positioned after extraction, separation or transport. Its signals can also be returned to the higher-level control system of the casting cell.
Technical inspection protocol for a used weight sensing device
Before purchase and integration, the measuring function, mechanical system, electronics, pneumatics and actual scope of supply should be documented.
Inspection, repair and integration
Depending on their condition, used weight sensing devices can be cleaned, mechanically inspected, repaired and prepared for a new parts flow. Factory-new devices can also be offered to suit the project.
Buy or sell used weight sensing devices
FISS supports the search for a suitable weight sensing device and its technical assignment based on component weight, measuring range, tolerance, plate size, weighing time, discharge direction, compressed-air supply and the interface to the hot chamber die casting machine. In addition to used systems, factory-new PPW weight sensing devices can also be offered depending on the requirements.
When selling equipment, FISS supports condition assessment, technical documentation and international marketing of individual weight sensing devices and complete hot chamber automation equipment. In addition to brokerage and international marketing, direct purchase by FISS may also be an option depending on the project.