Laser System provides percussion and trepan drilling.
Press Release Summary:
LASERDYNE 5-axis Model 450 delivers precision percussion and trepan drilling of turbine engine blades, nozzle guide vanes, and shrouds. CNC controlled, pulsed Nd:YAG laser is mounted outside work area. System has linear accuracy of ±0.0005 in./ft in X, Y, and Z axes. Accuracy in rotary A and B axes is ±20 and ±6 arc-sec, respectively. Optical focus control is provided for ceramic coated and metal surfaces. Active optical sensing monitors state of optics during drilling.
Original Press Release:
LASERDYNE® SYSTEMS, a Division of PRIMA North America, Inc., Announces Introduction of Its New Model 450 Five Axis Laser System
Champlin, Minnesota: PRIMA North America, Inc. announced introduction of the new LASERDYNE Model 450 five-axis laser system designed specifically for precision percussion and trepan drilling of turbine engine blades, nozzle guide vanes, shrouds, and similar size components. This system is the first to incorporate the design principles of the "LASERDYNE 2X Systems". LASERDYNE SYSTEM engineers have compiled their process sensing advancements, hardware/software innovations, and laser processing expertise from the last twenty-three years and molded them using this unique design philosophy. "LASERDYNE 2X Systems" have demonstrated the ability in manufacturing applications to at times double the throughput of systems they replace. Throughput increases are seen in quality improvements as well as reduced cycle times. Terry VanderWert, Vice President LASERDYNE SYSTEMS points out that the key to the improved performance is the integration of all the individual elements. The effectiveness of the individual components is compounded when they are made to work together.
The new laser system includes LASERDYNE unique features such as the patented Optical Focus Control (OFC). OFC provides focus control for ceramic coated as well as metal surfaces along with probing of the surface prior to and during laser drilling. This feature is coupled with BreakThrough Detection(TM), a patent applied for feature, which improves hole consistency, reduces backwall strike damage, and increases throughput during processing. Another unique feature is Active Optical Sensing (AOS). AOS is a combination of hardware and software, which monitors the state of optics during the drilling process. AOS warns the operator or will actually stop the process when the optics have been compromised. These features promote the highest level of hole quality and consistency at top operating speeds, and are examples of the 2X design philosophy.
The new Model 450 laser system is controlled by the LASERDYNE S94P Laser Process Control designed specifically for integrated control of laser, motion and sensing functions for precision laser materials processing. Representing the latest in PC-based control technology, the S94P software has been developed over two decades through experience in real-world turbine engine manufacturing. It includes a number of proprietary and patented features for laser cutting, drilling and welding.
The new Model 450 laser system configuration consists of three (3) linear (X, Y, Z) and two (2) (A, B) rotary axes mounted on the X-Y axes. The workpiece and associated fixturing are mounted to the direct drive A (rotary) axis that in turn is positioned using a precision gear drive rotary table.
The 450 is equipped with a fully CNC controlled CONVERGENT LASERS P50L pulsed Nd:YAG laser mounted outside the work area. The Model 450 has linear accuracy in the X, Y, Z axes of +/-0.013 mm/300 mm (+/-0.0005 in/ft). Accuracy in the rotary A, B axes is ±20 arc-second and ±6 arc-second respectively. The system has a part weight capacity of 18.2 kg (40 lb) for workpiece and fixturing. Overall machine footprint is 3.2 m2 (34.4 ft2).
The new model 450 is another in LASERDYNE'S long line of problem-solving precision multi-axis laser machining systems. The system design supports today's manufacturer's goals for high throughput in precision laser drilling and cutting applications. Dr. Paolo Cigna, president of PRIMA North America calls this system "A major step change in equipment designed for laser drilling. LASERDYNE engineers have proven that the processing principles they have developed can increase quality and move laser drilling from an art to a reliable manufacturing process consistent with the operator skill level required of modern machine tools."
For more information and a FREE brochure, call 763-433-3700 or write to LASERDYNE SYSTEMS, 8600 109th Avenue North, #400, Champlin, Minnesota 55316. Fax: 763-433-3701. Website: www.prima-na.com Email: sales@prima-na.com
