Maintenance, repair & overhaul (MRO)
Once the engine is in operation, it will undergo regular inspection and maintenance. As airlines aim to increase the intervals between each maintenance visit, modern 3D metrology can help MRO shops extend the compressor blades' life or reduce the time required for each service visit.
Defects on compressor blades
Numerous types of defects can occur in a compressor blade. Defects can appear in different blade zones (A, B, C), on different sides of the airfoil (convex or concave), and on different types of edges (leading or trailing). Defects include undersize chord, reduced thickness, and roughening of the blade surface, but also problems such as
Dimension faults
- Corrosion and wear on the blade.
- Dents or nicks on the blade surface.
- Gross deformation and creep compared to the blade's original condition.