X-ray measurement lowers cost, time of tooling adjustments

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Tool adjustments follow part examination

The nominal/actual value comparison of the threaded ring component (Photo 3) illustrates good compliance of the component in the threaded area. However, considerable deviations to the CAD geometry are apparent on the outer edge of the component. This deformation causes problems during assembly, and tool adjustment was therefore necessary in this case.

Instead of the difficult-to-interpret individual measurements produced by classic coordinate measurement technology, the CT analysis gives the manufacturer immediate access to the information and dimensional allowances required to correct the moulding insert. The corrected tool design was available in just four hours. A renewed CT scan after correcting the mould confirmed the success of the corrective action after just one recursive loop (Photo 4).

Additional Information

A description of the partners

F.&G. Hachtel GmbH & Co. KG, is a mid-sized plastics processing company in Aalen, Germany. It works with all technologies in the field of injection moulding and tool and mould construction. The company has also been offering services relating to the qualification of components and assemblies using CT technology using a Phoenix X-ray V Tome X L system from GE since 2008.

Duwe-3D AG in Lindau, Germany, is the European partner and exclusive representative of InnovMetric Software Inc. in Germany, Austria and Switzerland and the contact for all German-language queries about 3D Polyworks metrology software.

Phoenix X-ray, a division of GE Measurement & Control, is a leading manufacturer of systems for 2D micro- and nanofocus X-ray inspection as well as 3D metrology, including failure and structure analysis using high-resolution industrial computed tomography (micro- and nanoCT). Its headquarters are in Wunstorf, Germany.

Testing the breadth of CT for toolmaking

These examples demonstrate the potential computed tomography offers for the process of qualifying plastic components. The Phoenix V Tome X L walk-in computed tomography system from GE Inspection Technologies located at Hachtel's headquarters in Aalen allows large components measuring up to 400 x 1,200 mm to be analysed as well as for the testing of light-metal, injection-moulded parts (Photo 1). As a service provider, the company offers the analysis and qualification of components and assemblies in combination with 3D metrology and non-destructive component testing.

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Technology

X-ray measurement lowers cost, time of tooling adjustments

Tool adjustments follow part examination

Testing the breadth of CT for toolmaking