BAE conducts laser pipeline scanning tests at the shipyard

BAE Systems Australia has successfully conducted experiments at the Osborne Naval Shipyard and Henderson Shipyard, using laser scanning technology to create 3D models of pipelines that will be installed on the currently under construction Hunter class frigates.

A one week trial was conducted at the Zero Line Future factory in southern Adelaide and BAE Systems Australia's Henderson Shipyard, demonstrating the technology's ability in real-world manufacturing environments.

According to a statement, BAE's research and technical team has collaborated with the production and dimensional control teams to determine the potential efficiency of the time spent on inspecting the quality of products produced by professional bending equipment.

Each Hunter class frigate requires thousands of uniquely sized pipes, which can be scanned in just five minutes using handheld scanners, some up to three meters long, and 3D models created.

The accuracy of devices and software can reach 100-200 micrometers.
"3D models can be stored to create digital twins for each pipeline used in the building, thus more accurately representing Hunter class frigates."

Sharon Wilson, Business Development and Continuing Naval Shipbuilding Director of BAE Systems Australia, stated that this technology not only helps simplify production processes, but also enables reverse engineering, production, and replacement of pipelines and connecting pipelines.

Wilson said, "We are collaborating with cutting-edge technology to maximize the efficiency of shipyards.".
This is another example of applying commercial equipment to shipyards, and we have conducted tests in the open environment of Line 0.

The insights gained from these experiments not only have significant benefits for our Hunter class frigate program and the ANZAC middle-aged capability assurance program, but we are working with our partners to provide them in naval asset management agreements, and also have significant benefits for Australia's ongoing naval shipbuilding.

Source: Laser Net