Lumber Length Measurement in Sorting Lines Posted in: Length Measurement – Tags: Automation, Building Materials and Equipment, Lumber Timber and Wood Products
Last Updated: January 6, 2026
Laser Distance Sensors Measure Length Dimension for Sorting Lumber
Long range Acuity sensors, like the AS2100, are often used in pairs by lumber mills to measure the lengths of lumber. The AS2100 is accurate enough to measure lumber to a millimeter, but with a top measurement speed of 250 measurements per second, it is fast enough to measure lumber in real-time as it passes by on a conveyor line. This gives you the opportunity to automate your sorting process as well as your quality control.
The sensors work in pairs from opposite ends of the lumber, measuring and calculating lumber length in tandem for the greatest accuracy. While it’d be tempting to use one sensor and say, hire someone to get all of the boards flush against a zeroing board, the two sensor system works best, rapidly and efficiently measuring your lumber on your preferred conveyor system.
The AS2100 allows for lumber mills to be nimble and adaptive to the length measurement needs of the lumber market, quickly measuring boards to exacting dimensions. Laser measurement systems can also be used for sorting purposes as well.
The AS2100 can connect to your PLC with a simple 4-20 mA analog output, RS232/422/485 serial connection, digital output, and EtherNet/IP™ communication options. With the extended temperature option, the AS2100 can be used in environments from -40°F (-40°C) to 140°F (60°C), and all versions have an IP65 rating to protect it from dust and the occasional rain storm. No matter if you’re in the rains of the Pacific Northwest, the wild temperature swings of the American Midwest, the snowy East Coast, or the chilly Great White North of Canada, the AS2100 is designed to work where you do.
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AS2100 Accurate Distance Sensor
The AS2100 is a highly accurate laser distance sensor that is designed to work well outdoors, in bright lights, and even on difficult targets such as hot or dark surfaces. With the ability to take accurate measurements (± 1 mm) from distances up to 500 meters away, and a measurement frequency of up to 250 Hz, it is the perfect laser for a wide range of applications.
Sarah has been our technical support and sales engineer for 5+ years. If you've ever reached out to Acuity Laser for tech support, more than likely, Sarah is the one who helped you.