What was the challenge or problem to solve?
Our customer wanted to subject metal parts to customised tests that simulated the extreme conditions they would be exposed to in real use. To do this, he needed to use a constant flow of a mixture of water with various particle sizes to spray the samples.
This test required a customised setup that met all the specifications and conditions required by the standard. In addition, this test had to be performed under specific temperature conditions and have specific operating cycles.
To carry out this project, we started by counting and measuring the parts to be tested with metrology tools to find out their dimensions. With this information and using professional CAD software, the setup and support structure for the parts was designed. Several factors had to be taken into account: the structure had to optimally support all the parts during the test; a flow rate and composition of the water-particle mixture set by the standard had to be used; and finally, the temperature conditions indicated by the client had to be met.
Then, the parts of the setup designed with a 3D resin printer with DLP technology were printed, which resulted in high quality customised parts. Next, a good selection of materials was made to manufacture the setup, thus avoiding possible failures in the future and ensuring good operation.
Subsequently, the test operating cycles were programmed, alternating between running and rest periods.
Finally, the setup was started up and everything was checked to ensure that it worked correctly and that it complied with the standard and the conditions specified by the client.