Charon XRD. A new twin robot X-ray diffractometer for surface analysis of complex aircraft components

You are here: Homepage > Search

Charon XRD. A new twin robot X-ray diffractometer for surface analysis of complex aircraft components

Haase, A. / Schafmeister, A. / Hessert, R. / Satzger, W.

For the non-destructive characterization of near-surface material states concerning residual stresses and work hardening on large components with complex geometries, a novel center-free large X-ray diffractometer named 'Charon XRD' was developed at MTU in a joint partnership project. GE Inspection Technologies with its fundamental knowledge in X-ray analysis combined successfully the proven concept of MTU Aero Engines and robot control solutions of ROBO Technology. Using a special optical measuring device the positioning accuracies of currently available six-axis robots could be brought to the necessary precision and, for the first time, highly accurate control of two synchronized robots in one coordinate system became possible. Measurements allow to design new components using the full potential of the materials and to meet the requirements of quality control regarding reliability, weight, performance, cost-effectiveness and life. This paper describes the design, functionality and measuring options of Charon XRD. First measurements on aircraft components with complex geometries are presented.