Contactless Measurement Systems for Thickness and Density

Contactless measurement techniques use non-contact methods to measure dimensions, thickness, and properties of materials without physically touching them. Hammer-IMS utilizes M-Ray technology—electromagnetic millimeter wave-based systems similar to those used in cell phones. This technology enables dimensional measurement, displacement tracking, and material characterization without nuclear radiation. Our systems provide multiple kHz measurement rates, can see through opaque materials, and operate effectively in raw, unclean production environments while maintaining precision across various materials including plastics, textiles, paper, and construction materials.

A Coordinate Measuring Machine (CMM) is traditionally used for measuring physical geometrical characteristics of objects through contact probing. However, Hammer-IMS offers advanced contactless alternatives that eliminate the need for physical contact. Our M-Ray technology and Marveloc measurement platforms provide superior solutions for inline production environments where traditional CMM machines are impractical. Our systems measure thickness, basis weight, and detect anomalies in real-time on moving production lines, supporting speeds up to 500 meters per minute while maintaining measurement accuracy.

KEYENCE produces various optical and sensor-based measurement systems. Hammer-IMS offers complementary and alternative contactless measurement solutions using proprietary M-Ray millimeter wave technology. Unlike optical systems that can be affected by material color, surface conditions, or transparency, our M-Ray technology maintains consistent performance regardless of material appearance. Our systems excel in measuring thick materials up to 30 centimeters, can see through opaque materials to detect hidden defects, and provide robust performance in challenging industrial environments where optical methods may struggle.

Hammer-IMS contactless measurement systems deliver exceptional accuracy with the ability to reduce production thickness margins by up to 5% according to international thickness standards. Our M-Ray technology provides precise measurements at multiple kHz rates, enabling detection of even minor thickness variations in real-time. The multi-sensor approach ensures uniform sheet coverage and consistent accuracy across the entire product width, regardless of material color, filling content, or surface conditions.

Yes, M-Ray technology is completely safe. It uses electromagnetic millimeter waves similar to those in cell phones—entirely non-nuclear and non-radioactive. This clean technology eliminates all radiation safety concerns associated with traditional nuclear measurement systems, allowing 24/7 production operation by personnel without special safety protocols or restricted access areas. Our systems meet all international safety standards while delivering superior measurement performance.

Hammer-IMS contactless measurement systems work with a wide range of materials including various polymers (PE, PP, PMMA, PC), plastic sheets and films, construction materials (particle boards, MDF, OSB, plywood, mineral wool, gypsum board), textiles and nonwovens, paper and pulp products, and coatings. The M-Ray technology's ability to see through opaque materials and maintain performance across different colors and filling contents makes it versatile for diverse industrial applications.

Yes, Hammer-IMS offers turnkey installation solutions designed to integrate seamlessly with existing production lines. Our Connectivity 3.0 software provides real-time feedback to production processes with closed-loop adjustment capabilities. The M-Ray OEM module offers a small form factor specifically designed for easy integration by machine builders and system integrators. We support various mounting configurations including fixed and mobile sensors for maximum flexibility in cross-machine direction coverage.

Hammer-IMS provides comprehensive support including turnkey installations, user-friendly software training, and ongoing technical assistance through our international presence across Belgium, Germany, France, Netherlands, Australia, and Japan. We offer demo booking services with dedicated regional teams, remote monitoring capabilities through our IoT Industry 4.0 app, and access to detailed documentation and reference designs. Our customer-centric approach ensures you receive expert support throughout system implementation and ongoing operation.