It is reported that engine crankshafts break into two pieces before the completion of the warranty period. An evaluation of crankshaft based on metallographic examination revealed that the fatigue is the dominant mechanism of failure of the crankshaft. Besides, one can understand that the fatigue initiated from the fillet region of the crankpin-web. But, what are the reasons for the presence of fatigue crack at this position? A huge number of experiments revealed that the presence of free graphite and non-spheroidal graphite in the microstructure of crankshaft made fatigue strength decreases to the initiation of fatigue, next, propagating in the weaker region, and finally premature fracture. Therefore, it is necessary to check the microstructural properties of crankshafts. This is done by using Eddy Current Method.
EddyWise offers a Crankshaft microstructural testing system for the inspection of crankshaft. This is made by integration of mechanical handling together with EddyLine II eddy current testing system and Specific Crankshaft Sensor. This testing system can analyze and evaluate microstructural properties of all required surface after grinding operation. The test pieces are loaded by a user and mounted on a mechanical fixture in the standing system. Then, they will be inspected and the result can be documented for further use, shown on the EddyLine II screen, and sorted into good and bad parts. Documentation can help crankshaft manufacturer to analysis and improve their production process. Consequently, EddyWise helps manufacture to increase their quality requirements and ppm.
The speed of inspection can be adapted to the production requirement of manufacturer. This system can be installed directly after of the last grinding operation such as the trim and shot pinning operation as a stand unit and integrated directly on the existing conveyor; accordingly, rendering the inspection station extremely compact and easy to maintain.
EddyWise designed this Microstructural Testing of crankshaft standing machine to solve of the problem of crankshaft inspection as much as possible to reduce the production cost sufficiently.