MSP's new software simplifies composite part production

Quickstep Technologies is the largest independent aerospace grade advanced composites manufacturer in Australia, providing solutions to customers including Northrop Grumman, for who it is an approved supplier for the international F-35 Lightning II Joint Strike Fighter (JSF) programme.

Without the ability to map the machine tool with NC-Checker and qualify the accurate position of a component in the machine with NC-PerfectPart, it is virtually impossible to guarantee a perfect part for the JSF programme without significant time and cost implications, according to a press release by MSP.

Implementation of MSP’s NC-PerfectPart and NC-Checker software, supported by the use of a Renishaw RMP600 radio probe, provides detailed information required to monitor the accuracy and capability of Quickstep Technologies’ five-axis machining, ensuring their machines stay within specified parameters. NC-PerfectPart fully automates the datum setting and verification process and therefore eliminates any human error. NC-PerfectPart also removes the need to precisely position the part, saving significant time in setup.

“Due to the simplicity of the software, we now have a scheduled fortnightly benchmark execution routine. Assessing the machine using our old methods could take anywhere between 2 and 4 days to complete. With NC-Checker, and the use of a Renishaw RMP600 radio probe, we have simplified the procedure greatly and can now complete this check in 1-2 hours, a saving of up to 96 per cent, freeing up valuable machine time and improving productivity,” said Kris Dokka, specialist manager, Quickstep Technologies.

“The parts we produce are complex free form shapes, so work-holding is a major issue when using traditional manufacturing methods. Each part has a dedicated composite vacuum fixture with three or four fixed location tooling spheres. The centre point of the spheres are known relative to the part geometry and this information is then used to locate the fixture or part in a suitable work offset coordinate system for machining. Prior to using NC-PerfectPart, these datums were generated using standard cycles within the Siemens control. While this achieved results, it was limited in that it was time consuming and open to human error,” added Dokka.

MSP, who is an associate company of Renishaw plc, is a global expert in developing and implementing precision metrology software, helping companies within various sectors, such as the aerospace, formula 1, and defence industries, produce 100 per cent accurate parts. (PC)

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