Bachelorproeven 2023-2024

This project focuses on automating and redesigning a transfer line for stainless steel sheets at Aperam Services & Solutions Benelux, addressing the current inefficiencies and safety risks associated with the manual operation of the line. The transfer line is responsible for dividing packs into smaller ones and sorting sheets by quality to remove defective products. To achieve this, the project will focus on redesigning the machine according to industry guidelines, implementing automation, and enhancing user-friendliness to improve production efficiency. Additionally, comprehensive documentation and a technical economic analysis will be completed to assess the costs and benefits of the new system. The project's goals are to create a more efficient and safe production process, reduce costs, and improve overall performance. By automating the transfer line, the project will enable faster and more accurate processing of stainless steel sheets, ultimately leading to increased customer satisfaction and competitiveness in the market.

Acoustic wayside monitoring of passing trains is an effective way to detect signs of early wear on the train and rail. In developing an acoustic measurement system, careful consideration is given to the total cost of ownership and scalability. This involves the utilization of sensors for data collection and devising methods for transmitting the measured data efficiently. Unquestionably, all of this is driven by the motive for enhancing railway safety through innovative and accessible monitoring solutions.

In this project a SensorTile.box and the Adafruit Mini USB Microphone sensors are chosen out of diverse acoustic measurement technologies. These sensors are connected to Raspberry Pi for data acquisition using Python programming language. The data acquired are processed locally on Raspberry Pi and then transferred to a database with the appropriate IoT support solution. Next to this is there also a heat camera used for measuring the heat development in rubber rail pads.

The results revealed that the needed libraries for connecting the SensorTile.box are outdated. The Adafruit on the other hand was successful in setting a connection with the Raspberry Pi and store the measured values in a database, only when tested on the rail were the measurement results poor. Measuring the temperature with a heat camera also did not give special results.

This study investigates the compatibility of perfluoroelastomer O-ring materials in new and existing applications at Chevron Phillips Chemical Company LP Tessenderlo. The primary goal is to improve the reliability and cost-efficiency of these materials in various chemical environments.

To achieve this, a procedure for testing O-ring compatibility with chemicals in the laboratory is developed. Additionally, a matrix that enlists existing Kalrez® O-rings with their process parameters and chemical compatibility serves as a valuable tool for material standardization.

The study identifies compounds that require upgrading for improved reliability and those that can be downgraded for cost savings. Furthermore, the potential to standardize to fewer O-rings in stock is explored.

During the research, Simriz® and Chemraz® compounds emerge as viable alternatives to Kalrez® O-rings, offering similar chemical resistance, durability, and shorter lead times. These findings demonstrate that different materials can reduce lead time, enhance O-ring reliability, manage costs and optimize stock management.

The focus of this project is to upgrade a distribution machine in an industrial yogurt drink production line. The primary reason for this upgrade is to replace the outdated components and control systems, ensuring greater uniformity among the different distribution machines performing the same function across various production lines. Therefore, the distribution machine on line six is completely upgraded and serves as the foundation for subsequent upgrades.

Through the upgrade of several components, including the PLC alongside its accompanying HMI panel, and the drives now controlled via Profinet, the operation and diagnostics of the distributor is significantly upgraded. Additionally, the program of the distributor now adheres to the standard of Danone.

Alongside the physical upgrades, the electrical schematics of the distributing machine are converted to Eplan, ensuring their accuracy post-conversion. The complete upgrade of line six enables it to serve as a foundation for subsequent lines.