Elevating Aerospace Manufacturing: Regal Precision’s Automated Inspection Journey with Status Metrology

Enabling Regal Precision Engineering to take the step to automated, lights-out inspection.

The Challenge – Further Advancements to Automated Inspection

Regal Precision Engineering specialise in producing high-precision components for the aerospace sector, where exacting standards demand accuracy and consistency. Seeking to improve efficiency and minimise human intervention, Regal aimed to adopt an automated “lights-out” inspection process. However, upgrading their existing Coordinate Measuring Machines (CMMs) to modern standards, both technologically and cost-effectively, posed a significant challenge.

The Solution – Partnership with Status Metrology

Status Metrology stepped in to address Regal’s requirements, delivering three fully refurbished CMMs (Hexagon and Mitutoyo models) installed with the latest PC-DMIS software. By opting for refurbished machines from Status, Regal gained access to industry leading technology saving on the cost of new equipment, perfect for maintaining aerospace-level precision without overextending their budget.

Support and Expertise

Status Metrology’s exceptional support and expertise also included tailored training sessions on PC-DMIS, ensuring Regal’s operators could fully utilise the software’s capabilities. Their dedicated team remains on call for ongoing service and technical support, helping to minimise downtime and maintain consistent production. In addition, Status provided guidance on bespoke fixturing, which is critical for achieving precise, repeatable setups necessary for efficient, unmanned “lights-out” inspection.

The Process – From Concept to Deployment

Status Metrology began by thoroughly evaluating Regal’s existing inspection workflows to identify improvement opportunities. After this assessment, three fully refurbished CMMs, that were installed with the latest PC-DMIS software, were set up at Regal’s custom-built facility.

Next, customised training sessions equipped Regal’s operators with the skills needed for automated measurement and software programming. Status also collaborated with Regal’s engineering team to develop tailored fixturing solutions, enabling efficient and repeatable setups crucial for unmanned operation. Following installation, Status continues to provide regular performance reviews and support, ensuring that Regal’s inspection processes remain at peak efficiency.

The Outcome – Precision and Efficiency Gains

Regal’s investment in refurbished CMMs equipped with cutting-edge software resulted in significant improvements across multiple areas. Enhanced measurement accuracy and automated inspection routines sped up first-off verification for new production runs. Thanks to these advancements, Regal now operates unmanned, “lights-out” inspection cycles that bolster output without sacrificing quality. By opting for refurbished CMMs over brand-new alternatives, Regal realised substantial cost savings while still achieving high-end capabilities suited to the stringent demands of the aerospace sector.

Testimonial

“Working with Status Metrology has been a game-changer. Their refurbished CMMs, equipped with the latest PC-DMIS software, have enabled us to move confidently into automated, lights-out inspection. The training and support we’ve received from Status have been excellent allowing us to maintain aerospace-level precision at lower costs.” Paul Charnock,  Regal Precision Engineering

Ready to elevate your inspection processes?
Learn more at Status Metrology and discover how you can incorporate refurbished CMMs with state-of-the-art software and expert support, just like Regal Precision Engineering.