Spectrum Metrology’s 4D InSpec XL surface defect gauge has won the 2019 Prism award in Test and Measurement. 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 reliably 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 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 airlines and MRO facilities, as well as by inspectors in turbines, heavy equipment, automotive components, medical devices and many other fields, the company says 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.
Often measurement of surface defects can be a time-consuming lab inspection or a fast, subjective visual check on the shop floor – an option with a wide margin of uncertainty causing expensive parts to be discarded unnecessarily. Spectrum says 4D Inspec reduces scrap and saves inspection time – giving more insight into surface condition.
Designed and manufactured by a U. S. company 4D Technology (a Nanometrics business unit), the 4D InSpec is distributed in the UK by Spectrum Metrology.