VisEng offers a comprehensive consultancy service, using the very latest experimental techniques, for determining stresses in components or structures and modelling fluid flows. The latest fully automated photoelastic analysis equipment is used, and VisEng has particular expertise in the field of residual stress measurement of glass. Many quality issues can be resolved using this technology. In addition to stress analysis, VisEng can provide highly detailed flow analysis solutions using rapid prototype models of complex components such as pumps, valves and engine cooling passages.
Photoelastic Analysis
Photoelastic stress analysis is a powerful full-field non-contact optical method for determining stresses and load paths in components or structures. It is also widely used for measuring residual stresses in transparent materials - particularly glass. The technique utilises an effect known as bi-refringence. This means that when a transparent material is stressed and observed under polarised light, interference fringes are formed which coincide with lines of shear stress. VisEng uses and sells the latest automatic measurement equipment which provides real-time results very rapidly.
Thermoelastic Analysis
VisEng's thermoelastic analysis determines the surface stress distribution in dynamically loaded structures and is particularly good for determining potential failure sites. The technique uses an extremely sensitive infra-red array camera which is capable of measuring minute temperature changes induced in the component during dynamic loading. The applications range from automotive, aerospace, composites, structures, contact stresses and other industrial applications.
Flow Visualisation
Flow visualisation is an experimental technique to view complex fluid flow in engineering components. Advanced modelling techniques and rapid prototyping are used to generate transparent models of components. The flows are modelled using a fluid having the same refractive index as the transparent model. To illustrate flow paths, the fluid is seeded using minute particles. A sheet of laser light is used to illuminate the model and allows the particles to be tracked through the component. Video footage and still images can be taken of the complex flow patterns and then, using a sophisticated image processing system, flow velocity measurements can be acquired. The technique has been successfully used to investigate flows in coolant passages, water and oil pumps, inlet manifolds and oil passageways.
Glass Inspection
VisEng offers a unique glass inspection capability using the GFP 1000 automated polariscope. Not only can the residual stress state of the finished glass be quantified and checked for defects but also, by applying a thin coating, any assembly or loading stresses can be quickly and easily detected. This technique can be used for both toughened and laminated automotive glass as well as architectural glass, bottles, or any other glass product. In addition to glass the same technique can be applied to most transparent plastics or acrylics, so it's excellent for maintaining the quality of manufacturing processes! For continuous product quality monitoring clients could purchase the GFP 2000 real-time automated polariscope, which has the potential to continuously monitor the transparent material production process.
Contact Us
VisEng Ltd
PO Box 2623
Warwick
CV34 6ZX
United Kingdom
