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ANCA Factory

ANCA Joins the Fight Against COVID-19 – Manufacturing Components for Ventilators to Support the Medical Industry

ANCA is a partner to the NOTUS Emergency Ventilator Program, a Grey Innovation-led initiative supported by the Victorian Government and Advanced Manufacturing Growth Centre (AMGC) to manufacture and assemble components of ventilatorsANCA Australia Factory

Coming to the aid of a medical system crushed world-wide by the COVID-19 pandemic, ANCA has joined an important consortium to rapidly manufacture invasive ventilators within Australia. This initiative directly addresses the critical supply of mechanical ventilation equipment to support COVID-19 patients requiring ventilation to survive. Banding together with other Australian manufacturing businesses, the consortium can harness various industry capabilities to make more ventilators sooner.

ANCA VentilatorBuilding on over 45 years of innovation, ANCA has taken its industry know-how to pivot to COVID-19 related manufacturing to support national efforts to produce more ventilators. ANCA’s dedicated project team will draw on the skills and experience of engineers and manufacturing production teams to support this venture while maintaining business-as-usual production, service and support for its global customers.

Co-founder and managing director, Pat Boland said: “ANCA is an advanced manufacturer that supplies to a wide range of industries, a key one being the medical industry. In fact, ANCA has been classified in the U.S. as an essential industry because so many of our customers are manufacturing medical components.”

ANCA is an Australian manufacturer of CNC machines that produce quality precision cutting tools. Their experience in advanced manufacturing means they can guarantee a micron precision, a capability which means the company could pivot and utilise its machine shop to manufacture parts for the ventilators. An Australian-based company, ANCA exports 98% of their product and boasts a global network to service global customers. Fully Australian and privately owned, ANCA machines have the capacity to machine components in brass, aluminium, plastic and steel and has skilled assembly capabilities.

ANCA Factory VentilatorsPat adds: “ANCA is Melbourne based, and we are very excited by the prospect of being involved with a home grown project and helping make a contribution to the manufacturing industry; making ventilator components and sub-assemblies to support urgent medical requirements.”

Around the world it is predicted that total demand for ventilators could run into the tens of thousands, with existing manufacturers unable to meet demand.

“This is a global emergency and in my view it is incumbent on every individual in every organization to do everything they can to help deal with it. And in the case of ANCA, we have capabilities that are a good match and it’s the right thing to do. We are very good at manufacturing the kind of parts that are needed for ventilators and it is a really great way for us as an organization to give something back to the community,” said ANCA Group CEO, Chris Hegarty.

ANCA CNC MachinesChris continued: “ANCA is a global company, but while we do have some resources offshore for manufacturing, most of our engineering is in Australia and a significant proportion of our manufacturing capabilities are here as well; so that’s why we are able to help.”

With production already in progress to meet tight timeframes; ANCA has hit the ground running with dedicated machinists willingly working weekends and over the Easter break to make parts and help combat coronavirus.

Production Operations manager, Mark Patman explains: “With an extremely tight timeframe, we’ve jumped in and started manufacturing the parts; it’s a team effort across the business to get it done. As a well-established global business, a lot of the processes required to deliver this type of project are already in place at ANCA. We can leverage off all our systems to be able to deliver the project.”

ANCA is utilizing a cross-functional team comprising manufacturing, supply chain, project management, stores logistics, and safety to support this crucial work.

Demonstrating agility in moving from machine tools to ventilators ANCA already has a working relationship with the AMGC and is pleased to be collaborating with Grey Innovation to ensure that Australia does not have a shortfall in ventilators, critical for our COVID-19 response. Answering the call from the Australian Government, rapid production will continue to supply contracts and contribute to the coronavirus crisis strategy.


For further information, please contact:

Sepideh Zandieh
Acting PR and Communications Manager, ANCA
M: +61 439 316 131
Sepideh.Zandieh@anca.com

ANCA is a market leading manufacturer of CNC grinding machines. It was founded in 1974 in Melbourne, Australia where the company still has its global headquarters. ANCA has offices in the UK, Germany, China, Thailand, India, Japan, Brazil and the USA as well as a comprehensive network of representatives and agents worldwide.

ANCA CNC grinders are used for manufacturing precision cutting tools and components across a diverse range of competitive industries including cutting tool manufacture, automotive, aerospace, electronics and medical.

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Suhner BEX 15 Line

Suhner Offers Newly Designed Version of BEX 15

This new version features a spindle speed increase of 25% 

Suhner BEX 15Suhner Industrial Products (Rome, Georgia) introduces its machining unit BEX 15 with maximum spindle speed up to 23,000 RPM, thus offering higher speeds and improved production inline. Standard variations are equipped with electric motors of 0.55 kW, 0.75 kW and 1.5 kW. An adapter flange is designed for the installation of multiple spindle heads and angle heads.

A new style timing belt drive multiplies the motor speed up to 13,050 RPM spindle speed. An AC inverter drive is used to increase the spindle speed up to 23,000 RPM at 87 Hz. Standard motor mounting on BEX 15 machining spindles is in the rear. Optional front motor mounting is available upon request. Additional optional features include frequency converter and direct drive servomotor.

The machining unit BEX 15 can be applied in axial and radial orientation, directly mounted to a Suhner linear slide assembly Type UA15-PH or UA15-CNC. In this combination, numerous operations such as milling or demanding drilling cycles including jump or peck feed can be accomplished easily.

Four optional toolholder systems (Collet ER25, ISO30, HSK50 and Weldon), standard air purge connections for spindle and belt housing including a number of additional options (for example, coolant through the spindle or automated tool change features) make this machining unit type BEX 15 adaptable and an optimal choice for demanding and specific inline machining requirements. BEX 15 with HSK spindle includes an integrated 4-point clamping system form C, for manual tool clamping. 


For more information, please contact:

Lee Coleman, National Sales Manager-Machining Division
Suhner Industrial Products Corp.
25 Anderson Road SW
Rome, GA 30161 USA
Direct: 706-314-2927
Mobile: 706-409-1876
Fax: 706-235-8045
lee.coleman@suhner.com
www.suhner.com

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Beaumont Machine Offers Improved Response Time on Fast Hole EDM

Leading supplier of fast hole EDMs now offers added features of REALTIME

Fast-Hole EDM

Model FH40-fast hole EDM with REALTIME
Beaumont Machine – Batavia, Ohio

Beaumont Machine, located in Southwest Ohio, has updated its core fast-hole EDM machine, the FH40, with added features, including a faster response time.

According to company President Ed Beaumont, “Fast-Hole EDM has changed in the past five years from primarily producing cooling holes to the needs on shapes and diffusers. The additional need for a lower recast and virtually no microcracking has become the standard in aerospace.  As a result, Beaumont Machine has been working on answers for our customers, focusing on the ability to work REALTIME with our power supply to control interconnection and closed-loop features.  Doing so aids in delivering a better overall quality for our process. Other features that improve with the REALTIME process such as micro-pulse technology, breakthrough hole-start technology and blind hole drilling all benefit from this better interconnection between the power supply and control.”

This new design has been incorporated in the company’s mainstay fast hole machine, the FH40.  Additional features of this machine include:

  • Offsite Diagnostics via analog or digital inputs
  • 16 Axes capability
  • Rotary Table Accuracy 3 to 5 arc seconds
  • Axis accuracy and Squareness .0004”
  • Repeatability .0002”
  • Electrode capability 24″
  • Electrode diameter .012″ – .25″
  • Rapid Speed 400 ipm X,Y,Z 200 ipm W
  • Drive Resolution, Absolute Encoders
  • Spindle Speed 3000 RPM
  • X, Y, Z axis travel in X up to 60”
  • Output Amperage 65 amps continuous
  • Amperage Settings 1 amp increments
  • Capacitance range 0 – 8.95
  • Filtration System 150 gallon DI System
  • Siemens Sinumerik 840D CNC
  • Fanuc 31i

For more information, please contact:  

Ed Beaumont
President
BEAUMONT MACHINE
4001 Borman Drive
Batavia, OH 45103
Phone:  513-701-0421
Web:  www.beaumontmachine.com
Email:  beaumach@msn.com

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Exact Metrology Presents the RS-SQUARED Area Scanner

RS-SQUAREDExact Metrology, a comprehensive metrology service provider, now offers the RS-SQUARED area scanner. Manufactured by Hexagon Metrology and re-sold by Exact Metrology, this 3D scanner is compatible with all current generation Absolute Arm 7-axis systems. The RS-SQUARED allows users to perform high-speed scans of simple shapes and surfaces. It is best suited to the scanning of large parts with lower detail requirements, such as automotive parts.

The Absolute Arm 7-axis system delivers tactile probing and laser scanning in a uniquely ergonomic package. It is the best choice for high-end portable measurement applications. The articulating arm offers unparalleled ease of movement and ease of measurement.

RS-SQUARED is a white light scanner that uses the Absolute Arm system to position large square ‘tiles’ of 3D scan data. This removes the need for time-consuming application of reference markers or spray, or complex mechanical processes such as fringe projection that requires a stable environment. Up to 4 data tiles are captured every second, which combined with minimal set-up time, creates a scanning system capable of generating point cloud data in very little time. As with other Absolute Arm scanners, the RS-SQUARED can be easily removed and remounted without needing time-consuming recalibration processes due to an innovative repeatable mounting system.

RS-SquaredAdditional features include an extra-large scan ‘tile’ measuring 300 by 300 millimeters, providing a fast scanning solution by permitting coverage of a larger area. Furthermore, the RS-SQUARED area scanner is so fast that a surface that would usually take one hour to scan, can now be digitalized in 10 minutes. The retained touch probe functionality of the Absolute Arm ensures that high-detail geometric features can be captured at any time by removing the scanner from the arm and connecting it to a probe. Data feedback and settings adjustment at the point of measurement is built into the Absolute Arm 7-axis through its OLED on-wrist display, and the RS-SQUARED is integrated within this concept perfectly with scanner profiles selectable without putting down the scanner. The full scanning system accuracy of the RS-SQUARED area scanner and Absolute Arm 7-axis system is certified according to ISO 10360-8 Annex D.

The RS-SQUARED area scanner represents a new direction for portable measuring arm technology, embracing the need for high-productivity by incorporating advanced white light scanning technology. Together with the Absolute Arm 7-axis, it offers the ultimate all-around portable measurement solution for medium-to-large sized components.

Exact Metrology is an ISO AS9100 Certified along with being FFL and ITAR Registered.

Exact Metrology, with facilities in Cincinnati, Moline and Milwaukee plus affiliated offices throughout the country, is a comprehensive metrology services provider, offering customers 3D and CT scanning, reverse engineering, quality inspection, product development and 2D drawings. The company also provides turnkey metrology solutions, including equipment sales and lease/rental arrangements.


For information, please contact:
EXACT METROLOGY, INC.
Dean Solberg
20515 Industry Avenue
Brookfield, WI 53045
Local: 262-533-0800
www.exactmetrology.com
deans@exactmetrology.com

EXACT METROLOGY, INC.
Steve Young
11575 Goldcoast Drive
Cincinnati, OH 45249
Local: 513.831.6620
Toll Free: 866.722.2600
www.exactmetrology.com
stevey@exactmetrology.com

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Clean workspace

Exact Metrology Provides Helpful Workplace Tips During Social Distancing

Jason Kleinhenz

Jason Kleinhenz received a biomedical engineering degree from the University of Cincinnati. He is currently the training and marketing manager at Exact Metrology.

Exact Metrology, a comprehensive metrology service provider, shares helpful safety tips for metrology workers during the COVID-19 pandemic. These tips are courtesy of Jason Kleinhenz, Exact Metrology marketing and training manager.

With much of the workforce operating from home, keeping up with quality inspection and reverse engineering is difficult during this time. However, there are solutions to counteract this problem. Some companies employ several of these tactics daily, but in these trying times they are much more relevant to maintain effective production.

If you are in the workplace, follow all the stated guidelines. These include staying 6 feet away, washing/sanitizing touched surfaces and washing your hands. Also remember to clean the objects you’re working with such as data collection tools and computers.

Only one person should collect the data from the object(s). That person is responsible for handling the objects and the data collection tools. Of course, the designated person also needs to clean and sanitize all objects, tools and surfaces.

Workers must save and upload data sets (and/or workspaces) to the cloud. Due to security threats, a company’s IT team should use a virtual private network (VPN) and/or file transfer protocol (FTP). This reduces the chances of data being hacked or stolen.

At home workstation

At home workstation

Have another person, or a team, work separately to download (receive) the data sets, or workspaces and process them. They will have their own safety procedures in place (essentially the same as the data collector). If possible, the processing person(s) should write programs at the same time the data is collected. This saves time and money as two operations are occurring at the same time. Most likely, this is not possible in reverse engineering projects. However, in quality inspection projects, this is a massive time-saving practice.

Communicating between the collector and processor(s) can be done quickly, and virtually, with online services like Skype and Zoom. The good old-fashioned phone works well for quick conversations too. There are some software packages that allow seamless workspace sharing between different people and teams such as a package through PolyWorks® by InnovMetric.

Clean workspace

Clean workspace

These techniques and tools can help companies reach their quality and reverse engineering objectives during social distancing. Exact Metrology is available to answer any questions about how to maximize efficiency or help with projects.

Exact Metrology is an ISO AS9100 Certified along with being FFL and ITAR Registered.

Exact Metrology, with facilities in Cincinnati, Moline and Milwaukee plus affiliated offices throughout the country, is a comprehensive metrology services provider, offering customers 3D and CT scanning, reverse engineering, quality inspection, product development and 2D drawings. The company also provides turnkey metrology solutions, including equipment sales and lease/rental arrangements.


 For information, please contact:

EXACT METROLOGY, INC.
11575 Goldcoast Drive
Cincinnati, OH 45249
Local: 513.831.6620
Toll Free: 866.722.2600
www.exactmetrology.com
info@exactmetrology.com

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Wardwell Before and After

Wardwell Braiding Co. Continues to Offer Refurbishing and Upgrading Program

Refurbishing Offers a Less Expensive Option During These Uncertain Economic Times

Wardwell Before and AfterWardwell Braiding Co., Rhode Island, a world leading manufacturer of wire braiding equipment for over 100 years, wants to extend its support to customers during this uncertain time and will continue to operate at full capacity. Wardwell understands that many companies have a hold on their budget for new equipment and will continue to offer its refurbishing and upgrading program on all Wardwell Braiding machines with original, new parts as a more cost-effective option.

As machinery ages, it begins to decline in performance and consume more replacement parts. Wardwell’s braiding machines are excellent candidates to be refurbished with new parts and updated features. Options can include high-efficiency motors, drives, broken wire detection, empty bobbin detection, core run-out sensors and longitudinal taping systems. The advancements in mechanical and electronic components make retrofit a cost-effective option to improve performance on existing machines.

Wardwell Before and AfterRetrofitting is a safer option than purchasing used equipment and offers the additional benefits of reduced machine downtime and increased output, often, at a lower cost. Reconditioning is particularly suitable for Wardwell machines because wear is, generally, limited to the braiding head and rotating parts. These are easily removed, shipped to Wardwell for refurbishing, and re-installed when complete.  The work is carried out by Wardwell’s trained technicians, who evaluate the machine’s mechanical components and advise customers on the condition and options available. Electrical and safety systems are replaced with factory-original parts and modernized to comply with current standards. Machine functions are tested and validated after completion.

Wardwell Retrofit Before and AfterRetrofitting reduces or eliminates the costs associated with acquiring and evaluating used equipment, purchasing of additional replacement parts to achieve the required performance plus the training needed by operators and maintenance personnel. This process is an excellent option, especially in these times of economic uncertainty.


Wardwell, Central Falls, Rhode Island, began in 1911 as a supplier of braiding machines to the manufacturers of textile products and later developed machinery models for reinforced hose and composite structures. Since the 1970s, the company’s focus has been on specialized braiding machines that serve the wire and cable industry. Today, Wardwell is a global supplier of braiders, winders and payoffs for the wire and cable industry.

For more information, please contact:

Cynthia Chen
Wardwell Braiding Co.
Phone: 401-724-8800 X 183
Fax: 401-723-2690
E-mail: cchen@wardwell.com
Web: www.wardwell.com

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Global Innovative Products Launches EDM Wire Online Store

Company to sell full line of EDM wires, including brass and coated

Global Innovative Products (GIP), a recognized leader in EDM wire technologies, has launched their EDM wire Online Store, www.gip-edmwire.com. High performance EDM wire provided by GIP enhances EDM operations, efficiency and performance for all types of EDM machines on the North American market today. As Ramesh Malhotra, owner of GIP, explains, “We are taking some very bold steps with this venture, but we did so for a very practical reason. Namely, our customers were often telling us they needed faster response to their wire needs and the convenience of an online store seemed a natural next step for us.”

The new GIP Online Store promotes the company’s full line of EDM wire types, including many patented and proprietary technology EDM wires, manufactured globally and made exclusively for GIP. Products offered here are produced by Thermo Compact and Bedra, two of the largest manufacturers of EDM wire in the world. Available products include brass wire (Bedra Boline Brass) and coated wires (PLASMA, KLEEN, GAMMA, BLAZE, EPSILON). GIP PLASMA™ is a hybrid-coated wire designed to improve cycle times and reduce operating costs. Customer testing has confirmed it is 20% to 30% faster vs. premium brass wire and is competitively priced.

All pricing is shown for the products in the GIP Online Store, something unique to the EDM industry, plus all major credit cards are accepted for fast, easy purchasing. In addition, GIP offers trial spools at discounted rates to all participants in the company’s GIP Wire Test Program, which can be engaged at the company’s website, www.gip-edmwire.com.


THE ADVANTAGES OF ONLINE BUYING

  1. Most consumers end up purchasing large quantities of wire and tie up valuable capital in inventory. The GIP overnight shipment program can assure customers get your wire when needed and not buy and sit on dead inventory.
  2. To assure security of supply, customer can place a large quantity order and set up scheduled delivery and pay as they draw from their reserved stock.
  3. GIP is getting its products produced by the two leading wire manufacturing companies, Thermo Compact and Bedra. This provides the end user the opportunity to access a diversity of supply through one channel.
  4. GIP believes in transparent pricing and lists each product price at its site, unlike traditional pricing, where customers do not know if they are paying more than the prevailing market price.
  5. GIP maintains profession metallurgist and experienced machine operation staff to provide technical support

For more information, please contact:

Barry Ramsay
General Manager
GLOBAL INNOVATIVE PRODUCTS
7697 Innovation Way
Suite 200
Mason, OH 45050
Phone: 513-701-0441
www.gip-edmwire.com
bramsay@gipintl.com

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Exact Metrology Offers Leica RTC360 Laser Scanner

Scanner features Leica Cyclone Field 360 and Leica Cyclone REGISTER 360

Leica laser scanner used in industrial environmentsExact Metrology, a comprehensive metrology service provider, is proud to announce the immediate availability of the Leica RTC360 3D laser scanner.  Manufactured by Leica Geosystems and distributed by Exact Metrology, these portable coordinate measuring machines are designed to measure large-scale objects. This laser scanner uses 3D reality capture.

3D reality capture is a process of scanning and capturing any site, for example, factories, buildings, crashes and crime scenes, in a 3D digital model, combining measurements and imagery. The model can be used for design and comparison purposes in various situations, capturing every detail with to-the-millimeter accuracy. This technology combines one-touch operation with portability and speed to deliver high levels of accuracy, automation and the ability to create 3D environments in a matter of minutes.

Leica laser scanner used in building construction environmentsMany industrial sites present inhospitable environments, where the health and safety of the employees and visitors are at risk due to temperature, corrosive materials, moving machinery and heavy objects. In addition, sites often have networks of pipes, tunnels, storage vessels and other structures that need to be examined. 3D reality capture permits complete site visualization for safety training. Site visibility also greatly improves plant management efficiency. Accurate measurements help designers create extensions without needing to visit the site and enhanced planning of workflow avoids disruptions.

Thanks to 3D reality capture, Building Information Modeling (BIM) experts save time and money as BIM processes become more efficient, from the accuracy of construction documentation to design and build quality assurance. The latest laser scanning technological developments improve understanding and documentation of the build environment through the use of millimeter-accurate laser scanning and High-Dynamic Range (HDR) imagery.  By using 3D reality capture, previews of data and imagery are viewable onsite directly from a tablet, enabling scans to be checked and verified before going to the office.

Leica laser scanner used at scene of car accidentUsing 3D technology is useful when a crash or crime scene requires quick analysis of the scene. Scanning creates a 3D environment that can be explored and analyzed, as well as documents the entire scene in detail.  Furthermore, fast scanning minimizes disruption and delays and removes scene degradation, thus providing jurors with credible evidence.  Security and site validation at public events are likewise very important and an accurate model of the area can highlight threats and risks not readily evident.

With a measuring rate up to 2 million points per second, automated targetless field registration (based on VIS technology) and automated transfer of data from site to office, the device and software greatly reduce time spent in the field and maximize productivity.

The scanner’s portable design and collapsible tripod fit into most backpacks. Low noise data allows for better images, resulting in crisp, high-quality scans that can be used in a variety of applications.

As part of the RTC360 solution, the Cyclone FIELD 360 links the 3D data acquisition in the field with the laser scanner and data registration in the office with Cyclone REGISTER 360. The user can automatically capture, register and examine scan and image data.


Exact Metrology is ISO, AS9100 Certified as well as FFL and ITAR Registered.

Exact Metrology, with facilities in Cincinnati, Moline and Milwaukee plus affiliated offices throughout the country, is a comprehensive metrology services provider, offering customers 3D and CT scanning, reverse engineering, quality inspection, product development and 2D drawings.   The company also provides turnkey metrology solutions, including equipment sales and lease/rental arrangements.  

For information, please contact:

EXACT METROLOGY, INC.
Dean Solberg
20515 Industry Avenue
Brookfield, WI 53045
Local: 262-533-0800
www.exactmetrology.com
deans@exactmetrology.com

 

EXACT METROLOGY, INC.
Steve Young
11575 Goldcoast Drive
Cincinnati, OH 45249
Local: 513.831.6620
Toll Free: 866.722.2600
www.exactmetrology.com
stevey@exactmetrology.com

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Suhner Offers POLYDrill Range of Multi-Spindle Drills

Suhner features several options in its popular multi-spindle lines. Among them is the POLYDrill family, offering a huge selection of multi-spindle heads from the standard range. Fixed and adjustable hole pitches and compact models allow the tool to be used in a variety of situations. In addition, Suhner can supply tool holders from all stock for all popular brands of machining centers.

multi-spindle lines

Drilling capacity is available standard between 0.06-1” (1.5-25 mm). Minimum hole spacing is 0.27” (7 mm), while maximum hole spacing is virtually limitless. Optional tool holders include ER, ST, JT33, Weldon and customized styles. Additional options are axial and radial compensation and custom layout and spacing,

The POLYDrill range includes various multi-spindle heads such as: MH 20/5, MH 20/7, MH 20/10 and MH 20/13 plus multiple spindle heads with 2 adjustable spindles for the utmost in flexibility. The MH 20/5, 20/7, MH 20/10 have maximum speed of 4000 RPM. Maximum drilling capacities are 5 mm, 7 mm and 10 mm, respectively. MH 20/13 has a maximum drilling capacity of 13 mm and a maximum permissible speed of 3000 RPM.

The MHF has up to 10 spindles, a custom made pattern and a fixed spindle distance. Maximum drilling capacity is between 5-13 mm and the speed range is 2500-4000 RPM. MHFP is equipped with 8 spindles with preloaded angular contact bearings for use of carbide tools and fixed spindle distance. Maximum drilling capacity is between 7-20 and the speed range is 0-8000 RPM. The drive system VG 4-8 allows the user to power up to 8 machining units with a single motor with flex shaft power delivery. The speed range for this drive system is between 46-9320 RPM. Flexible drive shafts NA 7/10/12 have a speed range between 12,000-20,000 RPM.


For more information, please contact:

Lee Coleman, National Sales Manager-Machining Division
Suhner Industrial Products Corp.
25 Anderson Road SW
Rome, GA 30161 USA
Direct: 706-314-2927
Mobile: 706-409-1876
Fax: 706-235-8045
lee.coleman@suhner.com
www.suhner.com

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Exact Metrology Discusses CT Scanning Technology For 3D Printed Work

Exact Metrology, a comprehensive metrology service provider, participated in a webinar on February 20, 2020. The general subject involved testing and inspecting parts that are 3D printed. Josh Schradin, a project manager at Exact Metrology, gave a presentation on industrial CT (Computed Tomography) for additive manufacturing.

A CT scan, also known as an X-ray Computed Tomography (X-ray CT) or a Computerized Axial Tomography scan (CAT scan) uses computer-processed combinations of several X-ray images taken from different angles to produce cross-sectional (tomographic) images or “virtual slices” of specific areas of a scanned object. This allows the user to see inside the object without cutting or damaging it. The basic components of a CT system are its X-ray source, the sample on a rotary table and a detector (see image 1).

How Exact Metrology XraysThe reconstruction process takes multiple images of the object at multiple angles or projections around the object. With a projection, users can analyze the part formation or look for defects. Once the complete projections are captured through a 360-degree rotation, the images are segmented into grayscale value pixels.  Since the same theoretical point was captured from multiple angles, they become 3D volumetric pixels, or voxels (See image 3). A voxel set features different colors based on density and grayscale value. A voxel grid is used to stich images together.

Magnification is also an important part of CT scanning.  Moving the object closer to the X-ray source provides a larger shadow, optimizing the resolution of the final image, while having an object closer to the detector provides a smaller shadow that decreases the final resolution.

Exact Metrology ScanApplications of CT scanning in the additive world include defect analysis/porosity, dimensional analysis, trapped powder, product content position, reverse engineering wall thickness, air gap detection and others. In defect analysis, exploring the complete volume of an object allows users to see defects that would normally go unnoticed. Volume of voids, or porosity, can be calculated to determine risk of mechanical failure.  Users can align the data to the CAD model, export the defects out and run finite element analysis and/or simulation. Many specs have a defect size limit. CT scanning assures that limit isn’t surpassed.

Exact Metrology Voxel SetCT data can be used to measure dimensions from a drawing to verify that a part is within specifications.  A color plot deviation to the nominal model is also helpful to verify a part is meeting specifications (see image 6). Many samples of a part can be run to determine a trend. In addition, a metal part can be scanned prior to heat treat and after heat treat to see what has changed. A heat map is also applicable for deviations in wall thickness and air gap.

Trapped powder can be located during the printing process either by magnification or using a color map that shows deviation to the nominal model (see image 8).

Exact Metrology Scan wih NURBS ModelReverse engineering is achieved with the NURBS model, which stands for ‘Non-uniform rational B-Splines.’ This model consists of a curve network applied directly to a mesh controlled by allowable fit tolerances (see image 10). The final surface skin represents the CAD surface used and can further facilitate downstream applications such as machining, FEA, build corrections etc. Applied to a watertight mesh, it will result in a solid model.

Product content positon allows manufacturers to audit their products and determine if embedded objects are placed properly.

Exact Metrology is an ISO AS9100 Certified along with being FFL and ITAR Registered.

Exact Metrology, with facilities in Cincinnati, Ohio, Milwaukee, Wisconsin and Moline, Illinois and affiliated offices throughout the Midwest, is a comprehensive metrology services provider, offering customers 3D and CT scanning, reverse engineering, quality inspection, product development and 2D drawings. The company also provides turnkey metrology solutions, including equipment sales and lease/rental arrangements. 


For more information, please contact:

For information, please contact:
EXACT METROLOGY, INC. 
Dean Solberg
20515 Industry Avenue
Brookfield, WI 53045
Local: 262-533-0800
www.exactmetrology.com
deans@exactmetrology.com

Steve Young
Exact Metrology, Inc.
11575 Goldcoast Drive
Cincinnati, OH 45249
Toll Free: 866-722-2600
Local: 513-831-6620
www.exactmetrology.com
stevey@exactmetrology.com

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