Customer's Challenge

During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, many companies sought to improve their operational workflows. One of our long-term clients approached us for assistance in relocating a massive lathe machine used to recondition turbine rotors. The lathe featured a base bed over 9 meters long with a 3-meter-wide wheel chuck, as shown in Figure 1.

The client wanted to replicate the exact machine setup at a new location. For this, the service provider responsible for moving the machine required accurate “as-is” measurements to ensure proper setup and commissioning at the new site.

Solution

We deployed the FARO Vantage Laser Tracker to conduct a highly accurate dimensional survey of the lathe machine in a single setup, focusing on the following key parameters:

• Lathe Machine Bed (Rail) Levelness
• Alignment of Headstock (Spindle with Chuck) Center to Tailstock Center
• Longitudinal and Transverse Travel of the Carriage

Using Spatial Analyzer 3D metrology software, we transferred the laser-tracked data points for further analysis. One unique capability of the Spatial Analyzer is capturing “timed space points,” where the SMR (Spherically Mounted Retroreflector) is mounted on the moving components of the lathe. By capturing data at predetermined time intervals, we were able to track the dynamic movements of the lathe’s carriage in both longitudinal and transverse directions, providing insights into both static and dynamic states of the machine.

This precise digital data served as a reference for the relocation team, allowing them to replicate the original machine setup with minimal risk. Additionally, the information could be used for future machine alignment and calibration.

Benefits

Utilizing the FARO Vantage Laser Tracker enabled a comprehensive global survey that conventional measuring instruments could not match. The digital data provided a reliable reference for the installation team, simplifying the machine relocation process and reducing the risk of error. Moreover, the captured data can be retrieved later to calibrate the machine, ensuring continued precision over time.

The entire survey, conducted under strict COVID-19 safety protocols, was completed in just 3 days, demonstrating our efficiency and commitment to safety.