Zumbach Electronic, a global specialist in inline measurement and control for extrusion processes, has recently introduced the new UMAC® CI processor and A Holders, expanding its ultrasonic portfolio with a more powerful, flexible and precise solution for modern tube, pipe and cable production.
Forty years ago, Zumbach Electronic AG introduced the UMAC® ultrasonic measuring system for wall thickness, eccentricity and concentricity control on tubes, pipes, hoses and cables. More than 2000 systems have since been installed worldwide. Building on this long-standing expertise, the new UMAC® CI represents the latest evolution of the platform, combining a high-performance processor with a dedicated ultrasonic sensor designed for today’s demanding extrusion environments.
The processor offers high-speed precision measurement at up to 1000 Hz per channel, ensuring stable accuracy even at elevated line speeds. It incorporates advanced measuring algorithms that support faster start-up and smooth integration into existing production lines. Connectivity has been expanded to include Profinet IO, Ethernet/IP, Ethernet TCP/IP, OPC UA, RS interfaces and a USB/Ethernet service port for diagnostics, firmware updates and data transfer. The UMAC® CI also integrates easily with ODAC® laser scanners, KW lump and neck-down detectors and USYS® IPCe processors. An embedded web server enables intuitive visualisation and remote access through any standard browser without additional software. The system provides reliable acquisition of key parameters such as wall thickness and eccentricity, covering a wide measuring range starting from ultra-thin 0.05 mm walls and suitable for everything from micro-tubes to heavy-wall pipes.
Alongside the processor, Zumbach has introduced the newly developed UMAC® ultrasonic transducer A Holders, engineered specifically for tubes and small pipes. These holders are designed to enable fast and accurate centering close to the extruder, supporting diameters from 0.2 to 28 mm and wall thicknesses from 0.05 to 12 mm. They can be equipped with four or eight measuring points and offer horizontal or vertical configurations for flat or non-round products such as busbars. A dedicated USB service port allows quick calibration, data logging and synchronisation with the UMAC® CI processor. The A Holders are available in K and V versions for open-trough or vacuum-tank installation and offer height and side adjustments required in continuous operation. Their stainless-steel and POM construction ensures durability and low maintenance, while integrated water rinsing keeps transducers clean and bubble-free. Thanks to their modular plug-and-play design, the new holders are compatible with R, RZ and Z frames, extending the measurable diameter range up to 350 mm, with customised options reaching up to one metre.
With faster setup, stable performance and minimal upkeep, the A Holders help reduce start-up waste and support tighter production tolerances. Together, the UMAC® CI processor and the new holder family represent a significant step forward in extrusion measurement technology. By combining high-speed ultrasonic processing with flexible, user-friendly transducer solutions, Zumbach provides manufacturers with the precision, reliability and efficiency required for high-performance extrusion lines. Whether used for micro-tubes or large-diameter pipes, these developments help reduce waste, accelerate production ramp-up and maintain the strictest dimensional control, setting a new benchmark for accuracy and efficiency in extrusion.
www.zumbach.com