What is NIR spectroscopy?
NIR spectroscopy (NIR = near infrared) is an optical method for analyzing various parameters of a material to be measured. It uses a certain wavelength range of light. The light is absorbed or reflected by the material in a certain way. This results in a raw spectrum from which the system can determine the desired parameter with the help of intelligent spectrum pre-processing and chemometric analysis (e.g. PLS regression) and the appropriate calibration. Further information on the technology can also be found here: https://www.apos.biz/technology/
Why is APOS specialized in a few industries?
We are convinced that only with expertise in the development and manufacture of NIR systems on the one hand AND a deep understanding of the customer’s processes on the other hand can you deliver satisfactory turnkey systems. Generic system hardware does not solve problems. Our applications solve problems.
On which materials can APOS measure?
APOS is the specialist for the biomass and wood-based materials industry. The classic products are raw materials in various forms, preliminary products or finished products of the wood-based materials industry: roundwood chips, wood chips, unglued fibers, glued fibers, finished raw boards (particleboard, MDF, OSB) flooring laminate coated boards or even glue.
In addition, we have fields of application for raw materials in the paper industry (fibers) and energy industry in the use of biomass (woody biomass, waste wood/recycled wood of all classes, straw, grasses, landscape management material, but also poultry manure).
Other fields of application are always possible! Please do not hesitate to ask us.
Which components belong to an APOS system?
APOS delivers ready for operation. Our systems are always delivered as complete and immediately usable systems. In addition to one or more sensors and the central unit with spectrometer, a measuring PC with monitor and the necessary APOS software, as well as the customer-specific calibration are part of the system.
Do the APOS sensors measure in contact with the material or at a distance?
Both! The decision on which sensor to use depends on the application.
We use contact sensors for the measurement of bulk material at chutes, slides, bunkers or even conveying elements. The advantage is that there are no problems with the signal in dusty environments, because there is no distance between the material and the optics, which would allow dust to form.
Distance measurements are chosen in cases where the material to be measured consists e.g. of glued fibers which could stick the optics, or for products like already produced solid wood panels, furniture panels or floor laminate to exclude damages. Further, we also offer probes for installation in high temperature environments and transflexion probes for measurement in liquids.
We will be happy to advise you on the appropriate selection.
Does the measurement also work on production lines with high material speeds?
Yes, the speed is unproblematic with our measurement because we generate at least one new measured value per second and the material is thus allowed to move very quickly. Several continuously recorded individual values are displayed as a moving average according to individual customer requirements.
Does APOS also offer offline or laboratory equipment?
Yes, depending on the application. The majority of APOS systems are designed as online measuring systems. In principle, however, each system can also be adapted and used for offline use. In addition, we offer special sample-based systems, e.g. for wood acceptance, e.g. the APOS BA-T 2.0
How can I integrate the APOS values into my control systems?
There are several possibilities here. In the standard version, our values can be transmitted, depending on the application, e.g. by 4-20 mA signal via OPC server, fieldbus systems, WEB API interface or automated csv export.
Do APOS systems require regular maintenance?
Almost all APOS systems are protected by maintenance contracts. The systems are regularly updated and there is one physical on-site maintenance per year. Here, the illuminants (wear) are replaced, the software is maintained/updated and the calibrations are checked. The customer then receives a release certificate from APOS.
How much do APOS systems cost?
Less than they save! Basically, APOS has list prices for defined applications. These are essentially dependent on the configuration, i.e., among other things, material, parameters (one or more), position of the measurement (one or more), etc..
If you contact us and describe your application, we can usually give you an indicative price immediately.
Does APOS offer its products other than for sale?
APOS’ offers its products either for purchase or as System-as-a-Service (SaaS), i.e. on a permanent lease basis. For new products with a still small installed base, test deployments are also possible at any time.