New Manufacturing Project to Save Millions in Reclaimed Parts

Author:  The Shot Peener Staff
Source:  The Shot Peener magazine, Vol 27, Issue 1, Winter 2013
Doc ID:  2013010
Year of Publication:  2013
Abstract:  
RECLAIM, a cutting-edge project at the £40 million Manufacturing Technology Centre (MTC) in Coventry, United Kingdom, has the potential to save UK industry millions of pounds by re-manufacturing high-value components, such as turbine blades, that would otherwise have gone for scrap. The RECLAIM project uses laser cladding, automated inspection and high-speed machining in a single, fully integrated re-manufacturing cell. The technology enables manufacturers to repair and recycle worn high-value components to a consistently high quality. The innovation is expected to make a major contribution to the efficiency of the aerospace, defence and power industries in particular. As well as repairing damaged and worn parts, the system can be used to manufacture complex new metal parts, upgrade obsolete parts and reconfigure standard parts for low-volume applications.