The aviation industry is focused on safety amid the ongoing labor shortage post-pandemic, driving a renewed emphasis for an increase in quality control and improved labor utilization. Currently, visual inspection of engines is the standard quality control practice, including repro-rubber and shadowgraph off-line techniques, which are time-consuming and subjective. The industry can utilize the 4Di InSpec automated metrology solution to achieve significantly higher sampling rates and improved quality control while providing fast, accurate and reproducible results. The automated system is capable of measuring 400 typical engine call-out measurements in under 30 minutes, which can take weeks using traditional methods, enabling manufacturers to reallocate labor for other critical tasks. The technology has demonstrated the ability to reduce scrap and rework by up to 40% on engine components.

The 4Di InSpec AMS can be configured for multiple applications, including large, rotary applications, small freeform components such as turbine blades and multi-sensor applications. Bob Wasilesky, senior director of sales and marketing for Onto Innovation subsidiary 4D Technology, said, “Multi-sensor, automated systems are the next step to delivering increased value to our customers, where one robot, with dual sensors, can measure surface roughness, surface features and defect inspection all in one system, greatly increasing efficiencies.”

For more information, visit www.ontoinnovation.com.