Optical CMM measures complex airfoils, blisks
April 14th 2009 12:29 am By Web Development in India
In extensive trials comparing conventional CMMs using tactile and optical scanning, the Steintek optical CMM achieved the shortest measurement times without any detrimental effect on accuracy.
Steintek, a leading provider of optical multi-axes measurement systems and turnkey applications for the turbines components, and Mantech Solutions, its partner in UK, are very pleased to announce the order recently received from Centrax for a Steintek CNC measuring system.
Centrax made the decision to purchase from Steintek following extensive measurement trials comparing conventional CMMs utilising both tactile and optical scanning technologies against the Steintek system.
The decision to go with Steintek was based on achieving the shortest possible measurement times without any detrimental effect on the measuring accuracy.
Commented Kevin Vickers of Centrax: “We were faced with the prospect of having to purchase several touch-probe CMMs in order to keep pace with production during ramp-up of our blisk manufacturing programme”.
“During our evaluation of the CMM market place we discovered that the Steintek system would measure our reflective components without the need for matt coating.
Trials at the Steintek HQ then proved that the machine was significantly faster than other systems that we considered, so a single machine would suffice for the planned output.
The expertise and professionalism, which were evident during the trial gave us the confidence to adopt this new technology.” Eliana De Santis, Steintek president said: “We are very glad to have the opportunity of assisting Centrax on their improvements in the production cycle time, minimising the time needed for inspecting parts, and maximising its gains by the processing speed and flexibility of the Steintek system.” Specifically the Steintek CNC measuring system is an automated system, featuring the white light scanning technology.
Together with its software for measurement and evaluation of complex aerofoil sections, the system enables real-time processing and graphics display of results with automated alignment and different best-fit options.
The Steintek System provides capabilities that include: * Overall system accuracy of 10 micron, also on very shiny and reflective materials.
* Measurement of leading and trailing edges with radius < 0.2mm.
* Fast measurements with immediate results.
* Several best-fit and alignment options.
* Parameterised programs.
Company descriptions: * About Steintek - Steintek founded in 1988, is a pioneer in optical multi-axes measurement systems, supplying truly systems for quality assurance in the workshop environment.
Steintek has headquarters in Bavaria, Germany, and distributors world wide.
* About Centrax - Centrax (www.centrax.eu.com) is an approved supplier of high quality machined components and assemblies to major original equipment gas turbine engine manufacturing companies (OEM’s) worldwide, for civil and military aerospace and Industrial gas turbines applications as well as for military auxiliary power units.
Centrax has headquarters in Devon, UK, and distributors worldwide.