Reverse Engineering
3D Laser Scanning, Structured Light Scanning, and Photogrammetric Geometry Capture
Various methods of capturing existing part geomtery can be used depending on the size of the part, location, and precision required. Scans can be used for various purposes including:
- Reproducing obsolete components
- Quality control of fabricated components
- Retrofit planning
- Generation of digital twins
Material Identification
Reverse Engineering is more than scanning. Critical material properties such as tensile strength, yield strength, hardness, and overall ductility can be verified through certified testing methods. When destructive testing is not appropriate, certain material properties can be analyized with nondestructive methods such as Positive Material Identifcation (PMI/XRF) and hardness mapping.
Weld Identification
For components where weld integrity is critical, macro-etch cross-section analysis can be used to document joint geometry and weld penetration so the original weld design can be reliably reproduced.
Coating Identification
When reproducing products with specific corrosion-resistance properties, it is important to determine the original coating type. Laboratory coating analysis can identify the material system, thickness, and application method so an equivalent protective finish can be specified for the replacement part.
Assembly Reproduction
When fasteners, bearings, or other assembly components are involved, they can be identified, added to drawings, and provided as a detailed Bill of Materials.
Measurement
Dimensional Reporting
Dimensional reports can be provided for fabricated components. Critical dimensions are identified and as-built measurements are recorded and submitted.
Dimensional Discrepancy Mapping
When more accuracy is required for measuring all aspects of a fabricated component, Digital twins can be utilized to generate dimensional discrepancy maps when compared to the original 3D model or previous geomtery capture. This tool allows us to provide information on geometry otherwise unsuitable for conventional measurement techniques. Applications include:
- Quality Control: Comparison between CAD model and as-built capture
- Material Deflection: Observe and quantify permanent deflection caused by things such as pull testing, over-use, or age.
- Heat Induced Warp: Welding and cutting proccesses can induce warp that can be hard to detect manually
Dimensional discrepancy can support fit-up and assembly risk reduction as well.
832-366-6616
Houston, TX, USA