Several of R.E. Warner's industrial surveying specialists were recently at TimkenSteel's Gambrinus Works to assist Akron University's surveying and mapping students with their 2017 National Society of Professional Surveyors student competition project. The
Canton Repository was on-site to capture photos.
Click here to see the story. The students completed a high-precision horizontal and vertical control survey at TimkenSteel’s Advanced Quench and Temper Facility (AQTF). They used both the traditional high-precision optical survey equipment and newer 3D laser tracker to complete the survey in order to compare the two methods. High-precision surveys are used for industrial projects to create high-precision project controls. High accuracy is crucial in the industrial environment where machinery is often set to 0.001 – 0.005 inches’ tolerance. The 3D laser tracker is the latest technology utilized to meet these stringent requirements. As high-precision surveying technologies become more commonplace, especially for industrial settings, it is essential that future surveyors are aware of these new technologies. In response to this, Akron University’s surveying and mapping program is working to integrate new laser technologies into its curriculum. R.E. Warner is one of few firms in Northeast Ohio that uses these technologies for industrial applications, and as industrial surveying and mapping has gained ground as a surveying specialty, R.E. Warner has been working with Akron University to provide students with real world experience in this arena. This experience is especially helpful for students who plan to stay in the area after graduation. There are many industrial companies locally and a great need for industrial surveying specialists, but few surveyors currently practice in this niche. The students’ 2017 NSPS competition entry is demonstrative of these local efforts to adapt to the evolutions of the surveying profession and prepare students for successful careers.