MetraScan Black unveiled by Creaform

Creaform has released the latest addition to its MetraScan 3D line up. Pitched by Creaform as the fastest and most accurate portable optical CMM scanner, the MetraScan Black can be seamlessly integrated in any quality control, quality assurance, inspection, MRO or reverse engineering workflow. Moreover, the company says the device can be operated by users of any skill level in any type of environment.

The MetraScan Black dimensional metrology system has been developed to measure complex parts and assemblies from an array of manufacturing processes and industries, such as automotive, aerospace, power generation, heavy engineering, casting, forging, sheet metal, injection moulding and composites.
MetraScan Black features 15 blue laser crosses for larger scanning areas that take up to 1,800,000 measurements per second and perform live meshing, ultimately cutting down the time between acquisition and workable files. The device also features a measurement resolution of 0.025 mm to generate highly detailed scans of any object.
Accuracy of 0.025 mm is based on VDI/VDE 2634 part 3 to ensure complete reliability and full traceability to international standards. To enhance shop-floor accuracy, MetraScan Black features patented dynamic referencing that compensates for the instabilities of surrounding environments.
When paired with the Creaform HandyProbe, the MetraScan Black lets users harness the capabilities of both 3D scanning and probing for a complete, streamlined inspection process. Customers can choose from two models – Black and Black Elite – based on speed, part complexity and accuracy requirements.
“Product quality issues impact scrap rate, production ramp-up, production rate and downtime, ultimately affecting manufacturing costs and overall profitability,” says Guillaume Bull, product manager at Creaform. “Manufacturers need to rely on innovative 3D measurement technologies, like MetraScan 3D, to refine their product development and quality control processes.”
For further information www.creaform3d.com

BAE installs fourth Stratasys 3D printer

BAE Systems has added a fourth Stratasys F900 3D printer to its manufacturing site in Salmesbury.

Alongside the existing three machines, the latest F900 will run around the clock as an integral part of BAE’s transformative ‘Factory of the Future’ initiative, a cutting-edge facility in Lancashire which brings together the latest advances in technology and manufacturing to work seamlessly with human operators in a first-of-its-kind, fully connected way.
Today, Stratasys industrial-grade FDM additive manufacturing is used across aircraft ground equipment operations for a wide range of applications spanning space models and design verification prototypes, manufacturing tools such as jigs and fixtures, and end-use parts. According to BAE Systems, the use of additive manufacturing across these applications is making production more flexible, faster and helping to reduce costs.
For further information www.stratasys.com

3D-printed bike helmets now a reality

3D-printing specialist EOS has been supporting London-based HEXR with its technology and providing expert consultancy since 2015.

With the introduction of the HEXR fitting app, the company is now offering a complete scan-to-product solution for high-quality, safe, 3D-printed cycling helmets. An app-based head scan allows customers worldwide to begin the bespoke cycling helmet creation process at home. The helmet is then 3D printed with EOS technology in a 100% plant-based polyamide material. A black dye is added before final inspection for structural integrity and finish quality.
For further information www.eos.info

LVD plans technology event series

Following the postponement of EuroBLECH 2020, LVD has made plans for a series of virtual events and in-person technology days to be held from September through to November 2020.

Camera lens with lense reflections.

The idea is to launch and showcase new laser cutting, bending and punch-press machines for the sheet metalworking market. EuroBLECH, the world’s largest sheet metalworking exhibition, has been postponed to March 2021 in light of the ongoing COVID-19 crisis. Dates and additional details for the LVD technology events will be announced in early August.
For further information www.lvdgroup.com

Landmark for JLR engine production

A landmark has been passed by the Jaguar Land Rover Engine Manufacturing Centre in Wolverhampton.

More than 1.5 million Ingenium powertrains, which are used in all of JLR’s vehicles other than the electric I-PACE, have been produced at the factory. The Ingenium family supports the company’s long-term commitment to reduce vehicle emissions and improve fuel economy across its product range.
JLR has committed to advancing the electrification of its vehicle line-up and establishing a concept hydrogen fuel cell powertrain solution, using the government’s recently announced £735m investment in advanced propulsion. The Engine Manufacturing Centre also houses the assembly of electric drive units (EDUs), offering full flexibility between new petrol/diesel engines and EDUs for customers who want to make the switch from conventional to electrified vehicles.
For further information www.jaguarlandrover.com