GOM showcases latest ATOS addition

At the recent Advanced Manufacturing show in Birmingham, UK, GOM shone the spotlight on its fifth generation of ATOS sensors for 3D scanning over large measuring areas.

The ATOS 5 and ATOS 5X are fast and precise following the introduction of new features and developments. For instance, the Blue Light Equalizer has been developed especially for the light source in the ATOS 5 to make the system independent of ambient light conditions. The ATOS 5X takes this a step further with the introduction of a laser light compressor to generate ultra-bright light for the scanning process.
More speed and light in cameras allows for a shorter exposure time, with scan times down to 0.2 seconds per measurement and 100 frames per second.
As a result of this new technology, both systems achieve high-precision data for a diverse range of manual and automated applications, from tools and moulds, to plastic and metal parts. With the ability to scan small scale items such as aerofoil components, up to full car body inspection, the ATOS 5 is flexible and capable over multiple applications. At the same time, fixture design can be simplified as a larger surface is captured and fewer reference points are required.
The trend for automated measuring is supported by installing the ATOS system inside an ATOS Scanbox. This option combines all the functions in one automated measuring machine. What’s more, by utilising Virtual Measuring Room software, the measurement environment is represented in a virtual simulation. All robot movements are simulated and checked for safety before being performed in the actual environment.
For further information www.gom.com

Dormer Pramet buys cutting tool manufacturer

Dormer Pramet has acquired Wetmore Tool and Engineering, a privately-owned US-based manufacturer of customer-specified HSS and solid-carbide cutting tools.

Based in Chino, California, Wetmore Tool and Engineering is a manufacturer of adaptive shank drill technology, as well as fasteners, reamers and rivet shavers. The company specialises in cutting tools for hand-held skin-drilling applications performed by several global aerospace organisations.
As part of the acquisition, Wetmore becomes a product brand of Dormer Pramet, alongside its current Dormer, Pramet, Precision Twist Drill and Union Butterfield assortments. Jerome David, CEO at Wetmore Tool and Engineering, will continue in his position and play an important role in overseeing the transition as a member of Dormer Pramet’s senior management team.
For further information www.dormerpramet.com

Goodwin boosts in-process checks

Staffordshire-based Goodwin International manufactures components for a range of sectors, including the nuclear, defence, oil and gas, power generation, aerospace and renewable industries.

From large primary circuit reactor components standing at 4 m in height and 5.5 m in diameter, to machined and welded assemblies of up to 100 tonnes in weight, Goodwin International is able to manufacture a multitude of large, high-specification components.
As a result of the size and the demanding dimensional tolerances of many components, the company makes use of one of the largest capacity CMMs in the UK. However, given the problems associated with transporting large, heavy workpieces to
the CMM, the company also uses a range of Faro portable CMMs with both tactile measurement and scanning capabilities to perform regular in-process checks.
A growing order book and increasing need for the scanning and dimensional inspection of large components – and comparing them to CAD models – prompted Goodwin International to purchase a
4 m version of Faro’s recently launched Quantum FaroArm, used in combination with a FaroBlu Laser Line Probe HD (High Definition).
Goodwin International’s quality control manager Mark Woolmer says. “Having compared several options, I came to the conclusion that Faro’s 4 m Quantum ScanArm was the ideal portable CMM for our needs. It shares many of the qualities of our existing portable CMMs, although the new Quantum ScanArm boasts the latest FaroBlu Laser Line Probe HD and delivers even faster scanning times. In fact, its speed and ease of operation means that, without compromising on accuracy,
we have cut our scanning inspection times in half.”
For further information www.faro.com

Land Rover Schools Technology Challenge

More than 100 future engineers from schools in 15 countries will meet in the West Midlands for the Land Rover 4×4 in Schools Technology Challenge world finals.

Students will compete to design and build miniature remote-controlled 4x4s over four days (13-16 April 2019) at the University of Warwick, near Jaguar Land Rover’s headquarters in Whitley.
Thousands of young people have taken part in the competition since 2006. Moreover, the Land Rover 4×4 in Schools Technology Challenge was extended internationally in 2015 and now runs in 20 countries. The world finals will bring together all the national champions, with students travelling to the UK to compete for the world champion’s trophy. Student teams around the globe are now preparing for the finals and working hard to produce a world-beating, remote-controlled, scale model off-roader which incorporates lessons learned in their national final competitions.
For further information www.4x4inschools.co.uk

40 years of Renishaw apprentices

Renishaw is currently recruiting for a record 68 apprentices across its sites in Gloucestershire and Wales.

The 2019 intake will be the 40th cohort to join Renishaw, which has taken apprentices every year since 1979. Applications for a range of roles, including engineering, software, embedded electronic design and development, and IT, are now open until 1 March 2019.
As well as gaining on-the-job experience and nationally recognised qualifications, apprentices at Renishaw receive a tailored induction programme and in-house training to ensure they get the best possible experience. Apprentices are also eligible for Renishaw’s comprehensive benefits package, which includes a 9% non-contributory pension, private medical insurance and a competitive salary.
For further information www.renishaw.com/apprentice