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01.11.2004
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Winbro`s Lasemill lasermachining system, which uses Delcam software, readily competes against EDMs in turbine blade and vane applications.
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An innovative 5-axis lasermachining process lets aerospace and industrial-gas-turbine manufacturers machine complex geometries into turbine blades and vanes.
An innovative 5-axis lasermachining process lets aerospace and industrial-gas-turbine manufacturers machine complex geometries into turbine blades and vanes. Previously, the laser's quality and accuracy levels were only possible with EDM. In addition, the Lasemill process is reportedly faster and cheaper than EDMing the parts.
The Winbro Group, the Leicestershire, UK-based firm that developed Lasemill, plans to supply the technology as a complete turnkey package, comprising the 5-axis laser center, the machining program, and the jigs and fixtures for specific components. The software, Power Solution CAD/CAM software from Delcam Inc., Windsor, Ont., imports component designs, models arrays of required holes, and develops machining paths. Full visualization and process simulation within the software ensures user confidence in the final process.
The main application of the Lasemill process is expected to be in the precision drilling of holes for the air cooling of components made from stainless steel, titanium, and nickel. This is a critical part of the manufacturing operation since the aim is to create the maximum possible number of holes in the part without jeopardizing its structural integrity. Furthermore, it is usually one of the final stages in making the components, so each part already has a high built-in value. For example, in one project, it was estimated that the cost of scrapping a single part would be $20,000.
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