Open Access Conference Proceedings

One of the most crucial parameters having deciding influence on the quality of multilayer ceramic forms used in precision casting process of aircraft blades, is their thickness. Traditional measuring methods ensure a possibility of quantitative determining the factor only after inundating the form with liquid metal and breaking it. This article shows the results of the research which aim was to implement the non-destructive method using 3D scanning in order to determine thickness of forms. Three different kinds of ceramic materials and binders were selected and were put on wax model kits. Finally, 7-layers forms were made. Model sets and every of applied layers were scanned with 3D scanner. The results of scanning are generated as stl. files, which means that they describe geometry of the surface. After applying two scans on each other and processing them with the use of software dedicated for scanner, the empty space visible between measured surfaces determine the thickness of each layer and consequently the whole covering. The solution is very profitable as it allows to detect faulty forms and exclude them from subsequent stages of production. It allows to reduce the unnecessary spending which are really enormous in the case of such product.

Keywords: Metallurgy, 3D scanning, aircraft vanes, ceramic forms, thickness

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