Verisurf features engine builder metrology solution

Verisurf Softwarefeatured a turnkey metrology solution designed for performance engine builders at the PRI (Performance Racing Industry) show in Indianapolis last month. The solution includes 3D measurement software, hardware, training and support, for reverse engineering, designing, building, tuning and verifying high-performance engines and components. Engine builders can use the solution to replicate and check engine heads, blocks, pistons, crankshafts, intake and exhaust ports, camshafts, conrods, rocker stands and more.

A major components of the metrology solution is Master3DGage, a portable CMM arm powered by Verisurf software. The Master3DGage is a high precision, six-axis, 1.2m portable CMM arm that is compact and shop-floor ready. AC or battery-powered, the Master3DGage can be used on the bench, in the shop or even right under the hood, if necessary, to check for best fit or confirm clearances before components are produced or installed.

The solution,powered by Verisurf software, was developed based on features modules. For maximum user flexibility and efficiency, users can combine certain modules to create application suites. The engine builder solution includes:Verisurf CAD, Measure and Reverse modules; software updates and technical support; a Master3DGage portable CMM; a 9.5 mm silicon nitride extended-port probe; a Master3DGage and Verisurf installation and set-up video; and unlimited online training.

Verisurf is built on the Mastercam platform and can import, modify and export any CAD file format. The unified user experience is able to 3D-scan and reverse-engineer features, surfaces, parts and assemblies; generate CNC programs; back-plot and verify tool paths; push files for CNC machining; verify finished part quality against the intelligent 3D CAD model; and output quality reports.
For further information www.verisurf.com

Creaform joins C-TPAT

Creaform, a specialist in portable 3D measurement solutions and engineering services, is joining more than 11,400 partners of the trading community as a fully accredited member of the Customs-Trade Partnership against Terrorism (C-TPAT) programme, an endeavour to strengthen the security of its supply chains.As a C-TPAT member, Creaform will now be considered low risk and therefore less likely to be screened at US ports of entry, saving time at the border. The programme also provides several other advantages, such as access to the membershipdirectory and the establishment of a single point of contact.
For further information www.creaform3d.com

British Steel invests £330m

British Steel’s new billet caster, which is among £330m worth of investments that parent company Jingye has made in the UK business since acquiring it three years ago, is duefor commissioning this spring.The new caster will manufacture semi-finished steel billets with enhanced internal and surface qualities. This £54m project is the largest single investment by Jingye. British Steel’s investment strategy aligns to its decarbonisation plans, which will see it embrace new technology and ways of working to help reduce emissions and support clean growth.
For further information www.britishsteel.co.uk

Reverse engineering of motorcycle parts made easy

Manchester Metrology was recently in contact with someone who is in the process of restoring an old Kawasaki HX 125 to mint condition. This is a rare motorcycle to find in good condition, and some parts are no longer available, including the front brake disc/caliper cover. There was damage to the existing brake cover, which required full reverse engineering to make pristine again.

Due to the damage, it was not possible to scan the part and directly clean up the mesh for reproduction. As a result, the componentrequired recreating using parametric CAD. The team at Manchester Metrology deployed surfacing techniques to create each surface and blend them into the next.

Scanning of the part took place using a Creaform Handyscan Black Elite. This scanner has an accuracy of 0.025mm for small components, which is important for ensuring a good fit to the mounting points. The use of Geomagic DesignX for surface modelling allowed for a combination of more typical surface techniques along with mesh fitted surfaces where required. Once the surface was created, a thickness was added to make the part solid.
The component was then converted to an STL polygonal model and printed using a Snapmaker A350 with white PLA.

With the bike primarily for show, brake temperatures did not require consideration when selecting material. If temperature was a concern, carbon composite materials with HSHT fibre-glass reinforcement may be more suitable. A brim was used to aid build-plate adhesion, with the print taking over 80 hours to complete.

The print fitted well to the bike first time and did not require any tweaks or adjustments. Subsequently, the client was very happy with the outcome and recommended Manchester Metrology to fellow enthusiasts interested in their own copies.
For further information www.manchester-metrology.co.uk

Sunnen buys Hommel Prazision

Sunnen Products Co has acquired Hommel Präzision, a provider of honing and deep-hole drilling solutions in Germany for more than 70 years. Since 1950, Hommel Präzision has been the exclusive sales and service partner of Sunnen in Germany. The company’s sales and technical service teams will all remain the same, further augmented by the service and support of the Sunnen global network. “Hommel Präzision is a well-respected, customer-focused organisation and we are happy to have them as an official part of Sunnen,” says Chris Miltenberger, president and CEO of Sunnen.
For further information www.sunnen.com