StressMap, a specialist in residual stress metrology using the contour method, has invested in two new capabilities to help customers prolong the life and control distortions of critical mechanical components in the aerospace, motorsport and defence industries.

In its quest to making cutting-edge residual stress engineering technology available to industry, StressMap has designed, built and commissioned a new wire cutting machine that facilitates contour method measurements in polymers, ceramics and composites. Before this machine, it was only possible to measure electrically conductive materials (mainly metals), since the only cutting technique available was wire EDM.

StressMap’s invention is the fruit of a year’s worth of research and is the only machine in the world that can cut these non-conductive materials with the required quality. Specialist researchers presented and scrutinised the first results obtained in a PEEK pipe at a conference in the spring, with further structures currently undergoing tests.

Another new capability for StressMap is a laser peening machine, which will see collaborative use with a Formula 1 team as it looks to test engine components. This technique induces beneficial residual stress at the surface of key components, preventing cracking and prolonging their life.

Over the past decade, StressMap has delivered over 150 projects for 80 customers across the world. Applications of the company’s residual stress measurement expertise vary widely, and include: additive manufactured titanium components; nickel superalloys for turbine discs; and cobalt-chrome alloys for bio-medical use.

StressMap has also developed strain scanning simulation software in conjunction with STFC in Harwell Oxfordshire to improve the quality of neutron diffraction measurements by maximising accuracy in strain measurements and providing a high level of positional accuracy and repeatability.

For further information www.stressmap.co.uk

A UK specialist in micro-machining solutions, Rainford Precision, has invested in a Keyence digital microscope to provide a complete tool investigation and consultancy service for customers in the UK and Ireland.

The company’s managing director Miles Evans says: “When you are servicing customers with tools below 0.2 mm in diameter, diagnosing and optimising tool life and performance is a challenge. The Keyence system will enable us to provide a unique service to our customers within the cutting tool marketplace.”

With a magnification range from 100 to 1000, Rainford’s experts can analyse standard and micro-tools then investigate and resolve the barriers to optimum performance.

Cutting tools smaller than 0.5 mm in diameter can naturally pose issues when investigating performance and tool life issues. With the Keyence VHX-970FN, Rainford can provide an aftersales service aimed at delivering improved tool life, machining performance, productivity and consistency.

By investigating the wear characteristics of customer tools and armed with the cutting data, the company can diagnose issues from a multitude of factors. For example, if the cutting speeds, feeds and machining parameters are impacting performance, Rainford will be able to diagnose this from investigations with the Keyence microscope. Likewise, concentricity, tool holding and the associated concerns of rigidity, balance and stability could also be diagnosed and potentially rectified through Rainford’s service and product portfolio.

For existing customers, the service will provide a comprehensive feedback loop with full reporting and recommendations to maximise the machining performance of tools purchased through Rainford. Additionally, all potential customers who may be experiencing issues with their current cutting tools, whoever the manufacturer, and want investigate potential solutions, will be able to send their tools to Rainford’s experts.

For further information www.rainfordprecision.com