MesoFocus at iWP: high-resolution CT for batteries and additive manufacturing
August 8, 2024
iWP (inovative Werkstoffprüfung GmbH & Co. KG) is a leading service provider for innovative materials testing and measurement technology in Neuss, Germany. As the market shifts towards more e-mobility and additive manufacturing, more and more jobs get done with their MesoFocus 450 X-ray system, which helps them get through complex, dense parts and still see important details. Read on to find out more about inspecting batteries and other parts, creating the perfect image and iWP.
MesoFocus for battery inspection
Batteries are highly complex, especially entire battery packs for e-bikes and electric vehicles. Manufacturers come to iWP to inspect their new developments, helping them optimize products and identify potential faults more easily.
Anomalies in batteries can lead to malfunction or, worse, fires. In such instances, iWP thoroughly inspects burnt battery packs or electrical devices to find the source of the fire, providing crucial information to insurance companies and helping prevent future incidents.
MesoFocus for additively manufactured parts
Additive manufacturing (AM), also known as 3D printing, creates three-dimensional objects by adding layers of material. Due to the individual layers, complex structures, and sometimes large, highly absorbent parts, a mix of high resolution and high throughput is needed for proper inspection. In the example of a demonstration thermal reactor, iWP analyzed the wall thickness of the inner structure to identify possible deviations.
«The adaptive focal spot of the MesoFocus X-ray tube allows us to be highly flexible and quickly adapt the specifications depending on the density of the object and the resolution we need.»
Marco Hoff
CT Application Specialist at iWP
More than just taking an X-ray image
As a service provider, iWP’s strength lies in the professional evaluation, analysis, and presentation of test results. The X-ray system parameters are highly tailored to the individual part, and the CT image is optimized for contrast, color and more. For customers, this means they get detailed insights into the material, condition and possibilities for improvement of their part.
Future trends and challenges in X-ray inspection
For the iWP team, the trend towards industrialized additive manufacturing is clear. As additive manufacturing continues to evolve, it brings with it the challenge of inspecting parts that are becoming increasingly smaller, more complex, and denser. This evolution necessitates advancements in high throughput and high-resolution 3D X-ray technology (CT), such as the MesoFocus technology. The ability to accurately inspect such intricate parts is critical for ensuring quality and reliability in manufacturing processes.
About iWP (innovative materials testing)
The family-run company in Neuss, Germany specializes in digital X-ray and computed tomography (CT) services, allowing their customers to optimize their products quickly and maintain or secure their competitive advantage.
iWP is also a recognized training center of the German Society for Non-Destructive Testing (DGZfP), providing application, X-ray, and service training.
About MesoFocus
Combining excellent performance and high throughput, the MesoFocus modules are ideal for inline inspection and 24/7 operation without sacrificing image quality and resolution.
The MesoFocus modules reduce inspection times by up to 60% compared to standard open-microfocus modules.
Available in 225 and 450 kV.
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