en.Wedoany.com Reported - The Dig4ReMan project, a collaboration between Sandvik Coromant (Sweden), GKN Aerospace Engine Systems, Chalmers University of Technology, and the Fraunhofer Chalmers Research Centre for Industrial Mathematics, demonstrates how ISO STEP standards can make digital manufacturing faster, more accurate, and more connected. By creating a shared digital environment, companies can complete complex repairs more efficiently while reducing costs, material usage, and carbon emissions.

Repairing damaged turbine blades is extremely complex, as each case is unique and requires specialized knowledge. Traditionally, companies had to exchange images, PDFs, screenshots, and CAD/CAM files across multiple systems, which was both slow and error-prone.

Funded by Vinnova (the Swedish Innovation Agency) and the Advanced Digitalisation programme, the Dig4ReMan project uses STEP application protocols AP242 and AP238 to create a common digital language for 3D models, machining instructions, and tool data. This allows all partners to work from the same model without data loss when updating information.

The project has established a fully interconnected digital workflow covering every stage of the repair process, from inspection and planning to simulation, machining, and final verification.

According to GKN Aerospace, refurbishing a component can save up to 95% in materials, energy, and carbon dioxide emissions compared to producing a new spare part, while also significantly reducing costs.

Researchers from Chalmers University of Technology and the Fraunhofer Chalmers Centre developed advanced models to predict deformation, tolerances, and thermal behavior. Sandvik Coromant provided expertise in cutting tools and data standards, helping CNC machines and CAM systems share more detailed manufacturing information.

Johan Vallhagen, Senior Researcher and Project Manager at GKN Aerospace, stated that this type of machining is extremely demanding, with each damaged blade presenting new challenges, often relying on manual adjustments and fragmented communication across multiple systems. By using a standardized digital chain, complexity can be greatly reduced, ensuring every expert works from the same accurate data.

The ISO STEP standard runs throughout the workflow, enabling consistent data exchange across software systems and organizations.

Mikael Hedlind, Project Coordinator at Sandvik Coromant, noted that this is not just about repairing parts; it proves that design, machining, simulation, and inspection data can flow seamlessly between companies. The STEP standard provides a common language, and once everyone speaks the same language, collaboration becomes faster, clearer, and smarter.

The partners will continue to develop methods to strengthen digital collaboration across the manufacturing industry.

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