On-Line Profilometer

The On-Line Profilometer (OLP) is an on-line, real-time measurement system for continuously monitoring key profile dimensions in complex tread and sidewall extrusions.

On-Line Profilometer (OLP)

Tread profile geometry has a strong influence on the cured tire uniformity. Treads that are non-symmetrical produce cured tires with uniformity and balance problems. Over-sized treads are a waste of materials. In order to assure the most precise tread and sidewall extrusion quality, tire makers worldwide have adopted the On-Line Profilometer (OLP) as their standard for extrusion monitoring. The On-Line Profilometer (OLP) provides automatic, high speed,
non-contact measurement of tread and sidewall extrusions. OLP outperforms scanning systems by collecting an instantaneous cross-section profile rather than measuring in a zigzag pattern.

OLP can be installed after the die exit to monitor and alarm when key dimensions exceed the allowable tolerances.  Dimension changes at the die often indicate changes in rubber visco-elastic properties or changes in the equipment set-up. When dimensions change, the operator is alerted to intervene. Early intervention can lead to faster startup, reduced rework, better production rates, and better tread uniformity.

OLP can also be installed after cooling to make 100% quality inspection of all treads before they are released to the tire building operation. This enables the QC organization to compare the current run to the historical standards, to pass or fail each run, and to maintain an audit trail for each lot.

Uses

  • Use OLP at the die during the startup of any run to assist in reducing the time required to reach stability.
  • Use OLP at the die to continuously monitor the dimensional quality of any profile, and alarm the operator when any problem occurs.
  • Use OLP at the die to immediately recognize changes in die swell associated with batch change so that the operator can adjust the extruder settings.
  • Use OLP after cooling to produce data histories to compare any run with its historical performance and verify the effect of quality improvement initiatives.
  • Use OLP after cooling to check for die wear.
  • Use OLP data alongside other process data such as material theology, extruder die head pressure, screw RPM, screw power, and various temperatures to develop better knowledge as to the complex interactions between
    materials, process set-points, and profile geometry.

Resource Documents

Measurement Systems for the Tire Industry (Bulletin 2511)

PDF
1.14 MB

OLP - On-Line Profilometer (Bulletin 2512)

PDF
607 KB

OLP On-Line Profilometer Tread Dimensional Variation Study

PDF
423 KB

OLP - for Foamed PVC_ Rigid PVC and Calendered Rubber Sheets (Bulletin 2527)

PDF
276 KB

3005 - Starrett-Bytewise - Nested Closed-Loop Scheme for Tread Extrusion

PDF
230 KB

Starrett-Bytewise - Tire Industry Contact Info

PDF
129 KB
Our global team is standing by to help - Please contact us!
Please provide your contact information below so that we can reach you in a timely fashion.
First Name
*
Last Name
*
Email
*
Phone
Company
Job Title
Address
City
Postal Code
Country
State / Region
Please provide questions or comments in the text box below.
Comment / Questions
*
The information you provide will be used in accordance with the terms of our privacy policy.
I agree to the privacy policy
*
Related Information