Small-Hole Measurement Techniques

The proposed research and development effort integrates the latest in high-performance non-contact metrology technology with a focus on streamlining the measurement-to-analysis capabilities for small holes machined in engine turbine blades. The effort couples an interactive point data collection and retrieval system with high fidelity image scanning tools to measure geometric aspects of engine turbine blade cooling holes. In addition, it establishes the methodology necessary to create a 3D spatial model of the turbine blade with the as machined holes to support CAD model mapping and cooling film effectiveness modeling. The result is the framework for a comprehensive inspection tool that provides a means to evaluate the cooling effects provided by the machined holes, while establishing an immediate method to capture basic geometric data, such as hole diameter and eccentricity, that can be used to compare with specific design data. BENEFIT: The benefits of the proposed solution not only meets the immediate need/requirement for accurately measuring the fine details of small holes, but also supports the larger aspect of supporting as-built engineering analysis and disposition process through modern analytical tools.