Abstract
The purpose of this research is to investigate the accuracy of part density determinations calculated from inspection data gathered by laser scanners via articulating arm coordinate measuring machines (AACMM). Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) routinely performs density measurements on Plutonium (Pu) parts utilizing Archimedes’ Principle for volume estimation and with Pu being radioactive by nature, the fluid byproduct becomes radioactive. Given that Pu has a half-life of 24,100 years, this research has the potential for significant impacts to cost savings and positive long-lasting environmental impacts. Densities gathered through hydrostatic weighing will use a defined process and include a full uncertainty budget. The mass and densities calculated from this process will be considered the “calibrated” correct value. Mass values collected during the density process will be divided by volume calculations, generated from the AACMM dimensional measurements, to determine an estimated density. The difference between the calibrated density (hydrostatic) values and estimated density (AACMM) values will serve to provide an estimate of the systematic bias and thus establish an accuracy and capability of this technique.
Cite this paper
Mario O. Valdez, Joshua D. Montaño, Michael Steinzig, Zachary Sanchez-Archuleta. Los Alamos National Laboratory, Los Alamos, NM. Presented at the Coordinate Metrology Systems Conference 2019, Orlando, Florida, July 22-26, 2019. Coordinate Metrology Society, reference CMS-2019-005.