TMC chooses Hexagon CMM retrofit to transform quality assurance in LNG cargo tank manufacturing

TMC, a South Korean manufacturer of core components for LNG cargo tanks, needed faster, more versatile, and precise measurement capabilities. However, the outdated components and software of their existing coordinate measuring machine (CMM) limited performance and productivity. Retrofitting the CMM elevated their quality control capabilities with shorter inspection cycles and quicker results, and expanded the range of measurable components, enabling TMC to continue to lead in the eco-friendly energy transport sector.

TMC (previously known as Samwoo Memco), established in 2001, is a specialised manufacturer of core components for LNG (Liquefied Natural Gas) cargo tanks. The company has steadily built its expertise in producing critical components such as membrane sheets, stainless steel corners and anchor strips, which are crucial for the structural integrity and functionality of LNG containment systems. With its advanced technology and automated production systems, TMC is recognised as a leader in the industry. The Ministry of Trade, Industry, and Energy has even designated TMC’s membrane manufacturing technology as a national core technology.

As TMC continued to expand, the need for faster, more versatile, and precise measurement capabilities became apparent.

The company relied on a GLOBAL Performance 12.36.10 CMM from Hexagon. Purchased in April 2007, the system remained structurally sound and continued to function well, but its outdated components and software constrained their measurement performance and productivity.

In particular, the CMM was limited to tactile scanning, which meant the system struggled to efficiently inspect the large-scale components and complex geometries typical of LNG cargo tanks. The system also required a highly skilled operator, limiting accessibility for the broader team.

To address these challenges, TMC decided to invest in a comprehensive retrofit of their CMM. This included a new controller, adding non-contact measurement capabilities, a new probe head and probe changer rack, and the latest metrology software. These enhancements dramatically improved TMC’s ability to measure large and intricate components with greater precision and speed.

Included in the retrofit

The CMM’s legacy controller was replaced with a new RC241 controller, which increased measurement and application flexibility. Its compatibility with all Hexagon sensors and tool changers means their CMM could be transformed into a multisensor machine capable of a range of contact and optical measurement. The controller also allowed TMC to upgrade to the latest metrology software.

The addition of the HP-L-10.10 laser scanning sensor brought the advantages of non-contact measurement to improve throughput and reduce delays. The HP-L-10.10 is Hexagon’s fastest and most accurate laser scanner for CMMs. With a probing form error of just 8 microns, accuracy is close to the results operators can achieve with tactile probing.

Higher productivity, versatility, and ease of use

Jihoon Lee, Team Leader at TMC’s Technical Research Center, said: “We chose the retrofit option for its cost‑effective, high precision and versatile solutions. The retrofit has significantly improved our workflow, by enabling faster inspection processes and expanding our range of measurable components and products, with the upgraded system offering much greater efficiency and precision, which is critical for our applications.”

Adding the laser scanner was particularly transformative, allowing for non-contact measurement of complex geometries, enabling faster, more accurate inspections, and improving overall workflow efficiency.

Jihyung Son, Senior Researcher at TMC’s Technical Research Center, sums up the benefits of the retrofit: “With the laser scanner, we can now quickly and accurately inspect larger and more complex shapes, the CMM is easier to use, and the user-friendly software have made the system accessible to a broader team of operators. This investment has allowed us to overcome the limits of our existing equipment and elevate our quality control processes to a new level.”