Metrology
VOLUM-e controls the dimensions of metal or plastic parts alike at multiple steps depending on the production plan :
- Tooling before production (building Platform evenness, master model accuracy, etc)
- Blanks from Plastic or Metal Additive Manufacturing
- Metal parts after heat treatment or HIP
- Finished, machined parts.
VOLUM-e masters two measurement processes :
Three-dimensional measuring machine – Qualified operators use a ZEISS CONTURA to measure dimensions between points on a part up to 1000*1200*600mm very precisely (length L error margin : E0 = 1.5 + L/350 µm) and accurately (provided it is perfectly scaled), which are then compared with the digital design in CATPART format.
3D scanning – Qualified operators use an ATOS GOM to scan the complete part and thus generate a 3D model in STL format. The file is then compared with the digital design to rapidly spot any major dimensional failure or distortion or surface microcrack. Quick and precise, scanning may be used for parts ranging from 170 to 700mm.
Metallurgy
VOLUM-e counts metallurgical science experts in its Metal Additive Manufacturing (AM) team. The company is thus able to carry out metallurgical tests, whether at external independent and qualified laboratories or internally for tests with optices. The design, performing and interpretation of these tests is an integral part of VOLUM-e’s value proposition to Customer direct series production projects using Metal AM.
- Powder controls :
- Material characterization – Verify the powder’s geometric characteristics (diameter homogeneity, sphericity, etc)
- Material composition – Independently and precisely verify the chemical composition of powders.
- Test bar controls (destructive testing) :
- Porosity – Measure the porosity volume and maximum pore size
- Metallography – Analyze the microstructure with an optic microscope on cut samples
- Mechanical characterization – Measure mechanical properties (elongation in A% elasticity in Re, tensile strength in Rm, fatigue strength in od, etc) through various destructive tests.
- Part controls (non-destructive testing, NDT) :
- Radiography – Detect internal cracks and macro-porosities, especially in thin walls using X or Gamma Rays
- Penetrant inspection – Detect surface crack clues using penetrant liquids.
NB : The list of metallurgical controls is not exhaustive.
