The superplastic forming of components within the aerospace industry uses tooling geometries that produce the external aerodynamic surfaces. Although there is subsequent surface material removal for alpha case and material thickness control by abrasive blasting and chemical machining processing, the Manufacturing requirement is for accurate definition of the measurement of both the component and the dies in which it is SPF'd. As a result Rolls-Royce has developed a method of inspection for large complex die geometries and aerofoil forms which enables the monitoring of component geometry throughout a die run and for assurance of the final component form. This paper presents the work to date in developing the techniques of photogrametric inspection of the SPF dies and the components, with the resultant process controls through the manufacture.
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