High-Throughput Wheel Inspection System

Following intensive testing during production of over 250,000 inspected wheels, YXLON INTERNATIONAL introduced its WI26 G wheel inspection system, with automatic defect recognition (ADR) and the new Panel 460 detector. According to the developer, it’s a design geared for speed, inspection decision-making at its best, and minimal maintenance requirements.

“With this wheel inspection system we are able to double our production throughput,” is the enthusiastic commentary from Chris Puhlmann at Borbet Solingen, a German

producer of cast aluminum automotive wheels. At less than 20 seconds of inspection time per standard wheel — the fastest X-ray system available, according to the developer — an annual throughput of 1.5 million wheels is projected.

The Yxlon Panel 460 detector supplies what is described as “currently the best image quality for reliable inspection decisions.” Due to the large active area, the number of projections per inspection run is reduced, which equates to real-time savings.

The manipulation concept uses grippers, further increasing inspection speed. The efficient wheel feed and discharge via a new type of loadlock and transfer construction design ensures complete shielding against radiation, and implements wheel identification directly during insertion. At the same time, the ingenious mechanics minimize unnecessary wear-and-tear, while automatic calibration programs dispense with frequent program adjustments. Able to work with a range of wheel sizes and weights, the WI26 G is well suited for mixed operation and remains operable even in the event of an expanded product portfolio.

A prototype for the WI26 G was presented to customers a year ago, in order to integrate ideas and suggestions from users directly into advanced development. That prototype was proven during an intensive test run in ongoing production. Its successor has benefited from several further optimizations.

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