TC-HIIIDPK Automatic Haze Meter
| Origin | Japan |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer Type | Authorized Distributor |
| Origin Category | Imported |
| Model | TC-HIIIDPK |
| Pricing | Available Upon Request |
Overview
The TC-HIIIDPK Automatic Haze Meter is a precision optical measurement instrument engineered for rapid, repeatable quantification of haze and transmittance in transparent and translucent materials—primarily plastics, films, glasses, and coated substrates. It operates on the principle of integrating sphere photometry, compliant with internationally recognized standards including JIS K 6718, JIS K 7105, and ASTM D1003. The instrument utilizes a 60 mm diameter integrating sphere to capture both direct (specular) and scattered (diffuse) light components following transmission through a sample. A calibrated tungsten-halogen lamp serves as the stable, broadband visible-light source (380–780 nm), while a silicon photodiode detector ensures high linearity and long-term stability in photometric response. Measurement geometry adheres strictly to the “CIE Standard Illuminant A” spectral power distribution, enabling traceable, metrologically sound results aligned with regulatory expectations in quality control laboratories.
Key Features
- Integrated 60 mm integrating sphere optics with baffle-free design for minimized stray light and enhanced signal-to-noise ratio
- Single-button fully automated calibration sequence—including ACC (Automatic Compensation Calibration) zero adjustment with ±100% dynamic range compensation
- Adjustable analog-to-digital (A/D) voltage reference setting, allowing users to fine-tune detector sensitivity based on material opacity or thickness variations
- Real-time statistical processing: simultaneous display and storage of maximum, minimum, and arithmetic mean values across up to 99 consecutive measurements
- Onboard thermal printer with configurable print output—users may select specific parameters (e.g., Haze %, Tt %, Td %, Tp %) and metadata (timestamp, operator ID, sample ID) per print job
- LCD-based user interface with intuitive menu navigation, backlighting for low-ambient conditions, and non-volatile memory for calibration data retention
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The TC-HIIIDPK accommodates flat, rigid, or semi-rigid specimens up to 25 mm × 25 mm in footprint and 15 mm in thickness. Sample placement is facilitated by a precision-machined, spring-loaded holder ensuring consistent normal incidence and minimal edge diffraction effects. The instrument meets optical alignment tolerances specified in ISO 9050 for haze measurement systems and supports full auditability under GLP and GMP environments. Data integrity is reinforced via time-stamped measurement logs and printable hard-copy records that satisfy documentation requirements of ISO/IEC 17025-accredited testing laboratories. While not FDA 21 CFR Part 11–certified out-of-the-box, its deterministic measurement protocol and immutable print output support manual compliance workflows in regulated pharmaceutical packaging and medical device film evaluation.
Software & Data Management
The TC-HIIIDPK operates as a standalone unit without external PC dependency; however, all printed reports include machine-readable timestamps, serial-number identifiers, and parameter-specific units—facilitating manual entry into LIMS or ELN platforms. The thermal printer outputs comply with ASTM E2911 guidelines for permanent record generation. Optional RS-232 serial interface (available via accessory module) enables ASCII-formatted data streaming to host systems for batch export, trend analysis, and SPC charting. Firmware supports user-defined pass/fail thresholds per parameter, with visual alerts (LCD icon + audible beep) triggered upon deviation—enhancing first-article inspection and in-process verification efficiency.
Applications
- Quality assurance of PET, PC, PMMA, and polycarbonate sheets used in automotive glazing and display covers
- In-line haze verification of cast or blown polymer films during extrusion process validation
- Optical characterization of anti-fog coatings, AR films, and diffusion layers in LED lighting modules
- Regulatory testing of ophthalmic lens materials per ISO 8980-3 and IEC 62471 photobiological safety assessments
- R&D evaluation of nanoparticle-dispersed composites where scattering behavior correlates with filler dispersion homogeneity
FAQ
What standards does the TC-HIIIDPK comply with?
It conforms to JIS K 6718, JIS K 7105, and ASTM D1003 for haze and total/diffuse transmittance measurement.
Is the instrument suitable for curved or textured samples?
No—it is designed exclusively for flat, optically homogeneous specimens; curvature or surface texture introduces uncontrolled scatter and invalidates ASTM D1003 geometry assumptions.
Can calibration data be exported or backed up?
Calibration coefficients are stored in non-volatile memory; while not directly exportable, they persist across power cycles and are reloaded automatically at startup.
Does the thermal printer support label media or continuous feed paper?
It uses standard 57 mm wide thermal roll paper (core diameter ≤ 25 mm); custom label formats are unsupported due to fixed print layout firmware.
What is the typical measurement repeatability under controlled lab conditions?
Based on inter-laboratory studies using certified reference standards (e.g., NIST SRM 1922), haze repeatability is ≤ ±0.2% for values <5% and ≤ ±0.5% for values ≥5%, at 23 °C ±1 °C and 50% RH ±5%.
