YL3160 Non-Contact Spectrophotometer

YL3160 Non-Contact Spectrophotometer

The YL3160 is a 45/0 non-contact spectrophotometer designed to evaluate the color of samples that are difficult or unsuitable to measure by touching them with a probe. The measuring head works at a set distance from the sample, helping keep the instrument from contacting liquids, pastes, powders, corrosive substances, soft or deformable materials, and uneven surfaces. Measurement results depend on the sample, surface, container, geometry, distance and operating conditions; validate the method with representative samples before setting acceptance limits.

The instrument combines a full-spectrum LED light source, concave-grating spectrometer, 256-pixel dual-array CMOS image sensor and a 3.5-inch TFT display. Its optical design uses annular, uniform illumination at 45° and reception at 0°. The reported measurement range is 400–700 nm with 10 nm wavelength intervals. It can display color values including CIE L*a*b*, XYZ and Yxy. The product information lists a fastest measurement time of 0.05 seconds; the actual production cycle depends on triggering, sample movement, data processing and communications.

Measurement Principle and Use

In a 45/0 arrangement, the sample is illuminated around the measurement area at 45° and reflected light is received at 0°. The non-contact setup is intended for cases where probe contact could contaminate a sample, soil the measuring window or be impractical because of the sample’s form. Keep the measurement distance, sample orientation and viewing area consistent. For liquids and powders, use a suitable vessel or fixture and control fill, surface level and position. For glossy, transparent, textured or non-uniform materials, first verify repeatability and correlation with the organization’s reference method.

Key Features

• 45/0 measuring geometry with annular, uniform illumination and non-contact reception.
• Evaluates selected liquids, pastes, powders, corrosive samples, flexible materials and uneven surfaces, subject to method validation.
• 400–700 nm spectral range and 10 nm wavelength intervals.
• Colorimetric outputs include CIE L*a*b*, XYZ and Yxy.
• USB, RS485, RS232, Ethernet, external trigger and analog output are listed interfaces. Confirm the required interface and protocol before integration.
• The manufacturer lists IP66 protection; assess the installation environment and cable connections for the intended use.

Applications

The YL3160 may be evaluated for laboratory color measurement, research and development, incoming inspection, process monitoring and quality-control workflows. Potential sample types include liquids, pastes, powders, corrosive materials, flexible or deformable parts, and surfaces that cannot be reached reliably with a contact instrument. Industries that may assess this approach include coatings, inks, plastics, chemicals, cosmetics, food, agriculture, textiles, paper, electronics and ceramics. Suitability depends on the sample and the customer’s measurement procedure; these examples are not a guarantee of performance for every material.

Online and Automated Measurement

The non-contact design can be assessed for installation on a production line, robotic arm or automated inspection station. Before deployment, check working distance and tolerance, sample travel and vibration, line speed, field of view, lighting, mounting space, environmental protection, triggering, data format, PLC or software communication and the required response to out-of-limit results. Run trials under real operating conditions and confirm that the measurement location represents the product. For multi-instrument use over RS485, determine addressing, cabling, network topology and controller requirements with the system integrator.

Choosing a Model

Start with the material and its appearance: liquid, powder, paste, flexible surface, gloss, transparency and uniformity can affect measurement. Then confirm the measurement geometry, aperture or viewing area, working distance, fixture, result format, interface, speed and environmental conditions. Agree on sample preparation, calibration or reference checks, number of readings and acceptance criteria. If the sample can be measured by a contact probe and adjustable height is important, compare the YL3120 non-contact inline colorimeter. Browse the non-contact colorimeter range to review other models. Contact Fulcrum Technology with the sample type and application requirements for a product discussion.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can it measure liquid and powder samples?

These sample types are listed for evaluation. Use a consistent container, surface preparation and measuring distance, and verify repeatability with the actual material.

Does non-contact measurement work for every surface?

No single optical method suits every surface. Gloss, transparency, texture, color, curvature and non-uniformity can influence results. Test samples using the intended fixture and procedure before implementation.

Can it connect to an automated system?

USB, RS485, RS232, Ethernet, external trigger and analog output are listed. Confirm the exact interface, protocol, timing and data handling needed by the production system.

What is the measurement time?

The product information lists a fastest measurement time of 0.05 seconds. Confirm the effective cycle time with the chosen trigger mode, sample motion and data transfer.

What information should I provide when requesting a recommendation?

Provide sample photographs or descriptions, material and surface characteristics, current inspection method, measurement distance, line speed, installation conditions, desired output and integration requirements. Where possible, include representative samples and the required color tolerance.