In a continuing effort to enhance the capabilities of its gear measuring equipment, Wenzel has introduced a new feature that detects any presence of grind burn or pits on gears that are being measured on any Wenzel GearTec gear measurement machine. The integration of this new grind burn detection capability was developed in association with Stresstech GmbH, a German producer of non-destructive process control equipment. The sensor technology being applied utilizes the Magnetic Barkhausen Noise Method based on inductively detecting a noise-like signal generated when a magnetic field is applied to a ferromagnetic material. Barkhausen Noise can be used to analyze the micro-structure of a materials' surface in terms of hardness and its microstructural condition.

"Because gear measuring machines utilize very sophisticated programming software to inspect all geometrical features of gears and gear teeth, it's logical that a sensor adapted to the same measuring arm, making many of the same inspection movements, should be able to inspect for grind burn and pits that can occur on the flanks of ground gear teeth," says Chris Pomm, Wenzel technical director. "Typically chemical acid baths and optical methods are used to check for grind burn. With our new method, grind burn on gear flanks can be analyzed at the same time inspection occurs, eliminating the need for additional processing."

The digital Barkhausen noise analyzer system being applied to the Wenzel GearTec machines is the Stresstech Rollscan R300 which includes the instrument, sensor and software. The sensor has been integrated into the probe plate of the Wenzel INOVAGear, WGT series, and LH Gear CMM bridge style machines. The Barkhausen probe can be stored in the integrated change rack allowing for convenient and seamless inspection. The software is also integrated into the GearTec controller.