Ahead of its time yet again, sister company to AMS, APLAIR Manufacturing Solutions Inc., has launched a new era in inspection of resistance spot weld quality for OEM and collision repair. Traditionally, weld inspection has been a time consuming, destructive and expensive undertaking. Developed in conjunction with Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL), this technology has also been supported by the U.S. Department of Energy’s Vehicle Technologies Office. The patent pending system utilizes an infrared imaging unit combined with proprietary weld quality assessment software to provide substantiating weld quality.
This portable and non-destruction based system has the benefit of both real time and post weld capability. The real time system analyzes a weld in about 1 second saving both cost and time. Real time application utilizes heat from the weld while the post-weld process uses induction heating to raise the completed weld to 122°F, then analyzes that heat signature for proper weld formation with the same proprietary software. APLAIR plans to expand their database from mild and high strength steels, commonly used in automotive manufacturing, to include aluminum options and other metals.
Currently being focused on the OEM manufacturing market, APLAIR CEO Bob Watts, is interested in finding a development to partner for a parallel effort in the collision repair aftermarket. With all the push to save time and money, this system could be a game changer for collision repair shops. Serious inquiries only are encouraged to contact Watts directly at (423) 781-7395.
Find out more about their state of art technology at www.ams-laser.com or call them at 423-781-7163.
