Cost-effective 2D inspection for aerospace subcontractor

One of the few aluminium alloy routing specialists in the UK, Whitwam Precision Components, has installed an optical, non-contact measuring machine that allows inspection of flat components up to 1350mm x 900mm against the original CAD file much more quickly than using a traditional laser system.

An added bonus is that the Planar machine is also able to inspect 3D parts using a line laser measuring option.

Called Planar P120.50, the machine was supplied in January 2008 by Press & Shear Machinery, UK agent for the Irish manufacturer, InspecVision.

In addition to inspecting aerospace components that Whitwam produces, the Planar is available for reverse engineering parts for which drawings or electronic data are no longer available.

CAD files can be created for a customer, from which further parts can be made. This service is being actively marketed, both within the aerospace industry and in other sectors as well.