Surface defect gauge wins award

The award was presented to 4D Technology during the Photonics West 2019 expo by SPIE, the International Society for Optics and Photonics.

The 4D INSPEC inspection gauge is a new method of measuring micro-defects in 3D, such as scratches nicks, pits, protrusions, radius of curvature of grooves, spheres and shafts – even rivet geometry.

Using a patented camera technique for optimum stability, the 4D Inspec is completely portable, allowing you to measure directly on the shop floor without the need for time-consuming replicas or dismantling of large parts. The system identifies surface features from 5µm-2mm deep over a field of view of 8x8mm (10µm-9mm over 15x15mm with the XL model).  

Already adopted by some of the world’s leading airlines and MRO facilities, as well as by inspectors in turbines, heavy equipment, automotive components, medical devices and many other fields, the 4D INSPEC takes the guess work out of 3D micro-measurement. Typical applications include quantifying surface defects on turbine blade sections (without the need for replication), engine components and drivetrain components.  

Spectrum Metrology says traditionally measurement of surface defects has been a choice between a time-consuming lab inspection or a fast but subjective visual check on the shop floor – an option with a wide margin of uncertainty causing expensive parts to be discarded unnecessarily.  The 4D Inspec reduces scrap and saves valuable inspection time – giving far more insight into surface condition.  

Further details, including a video presentation are on the company's webpage: http://www.spectrum-metrology.co.uk/gauging-transducers/3Dmicrodefect.php.