Precision Scanning of Components in Laser Cladding

scanCONTROL laser scanner has been used to detect free forms and deviations before the components are sent to laser processing. The geometry scanning is done from several directions to ensure accurate 3D profiling for optimum results. The laser scanner provides constant and reliable values regardless of the materials’ reflective properties.

Laser processing of components is a versatile task. It ranges from cutting and welding work to coating. Mechanical components are measured three-dimensionally before machining to derive the optimum machining processes from the profile data obtained. Laser profile scanners from Micro-Epsilon are used for this purpose.

In laser cladding, a melt pool is created on the surface of the component. Adding a powdered filler material creates a new, pore-free layer. The core task of the scanner is the detection of free forms and the recognition of form deviations before laser processing. Different sensors can be used depending on the application, such as repair, 3D printing, joining or coating and component size. The scanCONTROL 3050-50/BL is ideally suited. This scanner offers a measuring range of 50 mm, with 2,048 measurement points per profile and a measuring rate of up to 10,000 profiles per second. The blue laser line enables precise measurements on metallic surfaces.

The raw data is transferred directly to the customer software, assembled into a 3D model and finally used for the path planning of the laser welding head. The nozzle can then be placed at the correct distance from the surface and guided along the calculated path. The result is a new, even and full surface.

In contrast to a camera solution, laser profile scanners enable a 3D model and are also surface-independent in terms of contrast. The higher precision and the various integration and processing possibilities of the acquired measurement data also offer significant advantages in this application.

Compared to tactile measurements, the required cycle time is considerably shorter thanks to non-contact measurements.