In the 2019-2020 financial year, no less than 449 million train journeys were recorded in the UK.
And although the pandemic reduced the number of passengers, trains remain the best and most-eco-friendly means of transportation. Here at T3DMC we work extensively within the railway industry with manufacturers, providing 3D scanning for product development and quality control for components and moulds.
Rail transport components are usually sizeable with many curved surfaces. Traditionally, measurement of very large railway components was time-consuming and not particularly accurate. Nowadays however, thanks to 3D scanning systems available on the market the problem of low-quality, low-efficiency can be easily overcome.
Detection of structural castings for train chassis
The structural casting for a train chassis is about 1200mm long, 600mm wide and 400mm high, and has a central platform supported by 6 cones. The casting has a medium-to-large size, multiple curved surfaces and angles. The diameters of different cross-sections of the six cones, the number of degrees of each angle, and the length and width of the central platform should be measured in order to provide data for subsequent processing.
To meet these needs of the engineering design process, we use the latest in 3D systems scan devices such as the KSCAN, which covers scanning area as large as 1440 mm x 860 mm per single shot and has a scanning speed of 1,350,000 measurements/second. These capabilities ensure the real-time scanning of medium to large sized components, reducing the duration of scanning and data processing to less than half an hour. This is an enormous benefit for reverse engineering and rapid prototyping project work.
Locomotive manufacturing challenges
Mould making is one of the key procedures in metro train manufacturing. Metro locomotive manufacturing can be largely divided into the following procedures: design mould development manufacturing assembly. Metro train manufacturers need to perform 3D scanning over locomotive mould to achieve 3D measurement data, and then compared the data with original digital analog to calculate potential deviation values and thus increase product accuracy.
Due to the bulkiness of a locomotive mould, it is very difficult to ensure scan process accuracy when using ordinary 3D scanners. As a problem-solving company, we offer handheld 3D scanner systems with high resolution capabilities, as well as our unparalleled mechanical engineering expertise.
Our systems are ideal for high-precision measurement of geometric sizes for large-sized workpieces and manufacturing equipment, which can be coupled with Scantech 3D detection device in operation. Lightweight and easy to use, our scanners offer great portability whilst delivering a volumetric accuracy of 0.015mm/m. The system can easily cope with the measurement of ultra large-sized components and significantly increase measurement accuracy.
Compared with moulds, the 3D detection of metro locomotives poses more stringent requirements after they are manufactured. Questions like whether the overall error falls within the limit of design, whether the mounting holes of locomotive windows or doors are compliant with standards, are closely related to the safety and stable operations of metro trains.
To further improve our customers’ 3D scanning process, we also offer a solution consisting of a handheld 3D scanner and the MSCAN global photogrammetric measurement system. First, the MSCAN global photogrammetric measurement system is applied to obtain spacial positioning points of the locomotive. Then, the handheld laser scanner is deployed to obtain 3D data. Finally, the derived 3D model data is compared with the digital analogy of the locomotive and the quantity of deformation is calculated for later product improvement.
Today, 3D scanning is being widely used in the quality test of components, parts and moulds of metro and conventional trains. Undoubtedly, 3D scanning also plays a crucial role in other aspects of railway transport, such as structural section test of metro tunnels and automatic test of railway tracks. 3D scanning provides accurate, rich data resources for various genres, from deviation correction, virtual assembly to repeatable analysis, traceability, during the development and manufacturing of rail transport.
To discuss your own requirements, get in touch with the team today or call 01746 762251.
Join us at TCT 3Sixty
The T3DMC team is exhibiting at TCT 3Sixty, the UK’s definitive and most influential 3D printing and additive manufacturing event, held at the NEC in Birmingham on 8th and 9th June 2022.
3D Scanning for 3D Sculptures – from design to 2.4m Commonwealth Statue
Have you seen how 3D scanning is being used for the purpose of fabrication of a large 2022 Commonwealth Games statue? Read our blog to understand more about the mixture of art and engineering.
What is Photogrammetry and Why is it Important?
Do you understand what photogrammetry is and how it can be used within scanning? Read our blog to learn how you can use it within your projects.
The Versatility of SIMSCAN – From Extraordinary Projects to Everyday Objects
3D scanning isn't just for extraordinary projects - it can be used to capture data for even the simplest every day objects!
KSCAN 20: Using 3D Scanning Within Racing Car Design
Scantech have demonstrated the endless benefits of 3D scanning in their recent project to support racing car design and maintenance.
Why Use 3D Scanning Over Traditional CMM & Tactile Measurement Systems
There are many benefits of using 3D scanning over traditional CMM methods - in this blog we take a look at the differences and benefits.
How does 3D scanning work?
If you’ve never incorporated 3D scanning into your in-house projects, it may sound like a complex topic.
The Use of 3D Scanning in Architectural Restoration
When people think of 3D scanning, architecture isn’t always the first thing that comes to mind but there are multiple benefits to the 3D digitisation of buildings and structures.
3D Printing Brings Lara Croft to Life
TCT Magazine discuss how Weta Workshop used 3D printing and scanning to bring Lara Croft to life as part of Tomb Raider’s 25th anniversary.
New 3D Scanners Shine at Advanced Engineering
Advanced Engineering UK was back this year with T3DMC in attendance showcasing our range of 3D scanners.