Sensor Products launches handheld nip width measurement device

Operators of rollers, laminators, coaters, and printers with rolls less than 39 inches (1 meter) in length can now get instant spot readings of nip width using P-Nip, the new tool developed by Sensor Products Inc.  

This handheld portable electronic device allows the capture of nip readings at multiple discrete locations across the roller sets’ face length (cross direction) as determined by the user. It is designed for nips that are 1/16 to inches (1.6 to 12.7 millimeters). 

Similar in size to a PDA, P-Nip consists of an LCD display with a small replaceable sensor finger that extends from the top (pictured below). Recording the spot values simply involves inserting this sensor ‘finger’ into your nip. P-Nip’s memory allows you to store your readings for later comparison and evaluation.

P-Nip is ideal for quick, yet accurate ( 2 percent) nip measurements. Readings can be recorded within seconds with no set up time required. Precise nip measurement is imperative to perform proper roll alignment and to extend roll cover life. Significant cost savings can be realized by maintaining proper roller alignment by virtue of improved yield as well as extended cover life.

‘Printers, converters, and manufacturers of other processes where webs are conveyed between rolls have long been seeking an inexpensive and portable means to quickly measure nip,’ said Jeffrey G. Stark, CEO of Sensor Products Inc. ‘P-Nip directly addresses this need.’