Glass Tempering Scanner

Low-emissivity (Low-E) glass is widely used for windows and facade components to improve the energy efficiency of buildings. However, it presents significant challenges for traditional infrared (IR) temperature measurement. Low-E glass has a coated side with very low emissivity, while infrared devices are commonly positioned above the tempering line and measure the glass as it exits the furnace. Measuring the coated surface can therefore result in inaccurate or unstable temperature readings. Reliable temperature data is essential during the tempering process, since temperature distribution has a direct influence on glass quality, process stability, and the final properties of the product.

The Optris Glass Tempering Scanner offers a bottom-up solution to this challenge. Installed beneath the tempering line, the system measures the non-coated, high-emissivity side of the glass. This coating-independent measurement principle provides continuous and reliable temperature data regardless of the Low-E coating on the upper surface. By measuring from below, manufacturers can obtain a consistent temperature profile even when different coatings or glass types are processed on the same production line.

The system uses a single infrared camera with 120° × 100° optics and a focal length of 3.5 mm. The ultra-wide field of view allows a large area to be monitored from a relatively short installation distance. In horizontal line scanner mode, the system provides a scan width of up to 3.0 m. A diagonal arrangement can increase the scan width to approximately 4.2 m, although this configuration is not recommended for standard installations due to the optical specifications and the reduced frame rate.

The Glass Tempering Scanner supports temperature measurements of up to 1500 °C and provides an NETD of 80 mK, enabling detailed detection of temperature differences across the glass surface. This allows thermal irregularities to be identified quickly and provides valuable information for controlling the heating and cooling process. Two integrated aiming helpers assist with accurately positioning and aligning the scan line during installation and commissioning.

The complete scanner is supplied as an all-in-one, prewired system, reducing the amount of work required during installation. With compact dimensions of 722 × 145 × 72 mm, it can be integrated beneath new or existing tempering lines where installation space is limited. Clearly labeled cable connections simplify wiring and commissioning and help avoid connection errors.

Since the system is positioned below the glass, protection against glass breakage is a key part of the design. A remotely controlled shutter protects the camera lens from hot falling glass pieces, helping prevent damage and ensuring reliable operation in the event of breakage. In addition, dedicated cable protection shields the wiring from hot glass fragments, reducing the risk of thermal and mechanical damage in demanding production environments.
In line scanner mode, the system provides live temperature profiles across the glass pane using the PIX Connect software. Temperature distributions can be monitored in real time during production, while individual measurements can be stored as snapshots for later analysis and documentation. This allows users to review process conditions, compare temperature patterns, and support quality control and process optimization. By combining coating-independent measurement, wide-angle optics, compact dimensions, and a prewired design, the Optris Glass Tempering Scanner provides a practical alternative to conventional bulky line scanner systems. Accurate temperature monitoring helps improve process stability, reduce waste, simplify installation, and maintain consistent product quality throughout the tempering process.

Thermography software optris PIX Connect is included and license-free.All infrared cameras are delivered with the thermography software optris PIX Connect, developed specifically for the extensive documentation and analysis of thermal images. The Windows-based PIX Connect software enables users to tailor the infrared cameras to meet specific requirements. It analyses live and recorded temperature data and triggers alarm signals for process integration. The key to leveraging the Optris infrared camera is a correct configuration. This includes detailed device-specific configurations such as frame rate, measurement range adjustments, external communication settings, and USB/Ethernet configurations. Moreover, PIX Connect facilitates firmware updates and the download of configuration files over the Internet. PIX Connect Optris offers several different SDKs for our Xi and PI thermal imaging cameras. Depending on the operating platform, the infrared camera, the coding language, and the hardware platform, different software interfaces can be utilized: SDK The Optris IRmobile allows users to set up and commission an Optris infrared pyrometer or infrared camera with an Android smartphone or tablet. This tool becomes handy for commissioning and aligning the infrared camera’s field of view or adjusting the configuration. The app analyzes the connected infrared camera‘s live infrared image stream with auto hot and cold spot detection. For pyrometers, a temperature-time diagram or the video signal is displayed. This app works on most Android devices running 5.0+ with a USB port supporting USB-OTG (On The Go). Google Play

• GTS main unit (pre-assembled) with shutter for emergency closure, electronics and PI 640i G7 with 120° optics
• 10 m Ethernet cable
• 100-240 V AC power cable
• Glass Breakage Sensor (CTlaser 4ML) with 10 m cable
• Furnace Door Sensor (CTi LT) with 10 m cable
• Analog input cable, 10 m long
• Aiming Support with 10 m cable each (2 pcs.)
• Optional: Remote control button with 10 m cable
• Cable protection conduit (6 pcs.)