CMM range features machine and workpiece temperature compensation

Citation

(1998), "CMM range features machine and workpiece temperature compensation", Aircraft Engineering and Aerospace Technology, Vol. 70 No. 6. https://doi.org/10.1108/aeat.1998.12770fab.006

CMM range features machine and workpiece temperature compensation

CMM range features machine and workpiece temperature compensation

Keywords Measuring machines, Mitutoyo, Temperature

Mitutoyo has introduced its new range of Euro Apex co-ordinate measuring machines (CMMs) which feature machine and workpiece temperature compensation (Plate 5). Euro Apex CMMs are reported to be unaffected by ambient temperature fluctuations allowing them to be used in workshop environments rather than in controlled conditions as was previously recommended. These CNC controlled machines are available in a range of nine models.

Thermal expansion of a workpiece can result in a CMM providing a measurement which is incorrect at a different temperature. Typically, a steel workpiece of 200mm length will vary by approximately 4.5µm as a result of a temperature variation of just 2ºC. Therefore, if the dimensional tolerance is 10µm, the importance of workpiece temperature is critical when highly accurate measurements have to be made.

The Euro Apex CMM range features both machine and workpiece temperature compensation. The system uses sensors on the machine itself and on the workpiece to give a temperature differential figure. According to Mitutoyo, Geopak Win CMM measurement software is given the coefficient of expansion of the material to be measured and measurement accuracy through the 16ºC-26ºC temperature range is maintained by using information on temperature difference, actual temperature and the thermal properties of the workpiece material. In this way the stated accuracy of the CMM is true across this range of temperatures and not ­ like some other CMMs ­ only at a specific temperature.

Plate 5 New Mitutoyo Euro Apex CMM range features machine and workpiece temperature compensation

The volumetric accuracy of the Euro Apex 544 model is 2.9+4l/1,000 while the largest model 123010 has a stated volumetric accuracy of 4.9+5l/1,000.

All Euro Apex CMMs incorporate the Mitutoyo values of high speed, a smooth action on all three axes, self-adjusting high rigidity air bearings and an overall high specification at a competitive cost.

Further details can be obtained from Mitutoyo (UK) Limited. Tel: +44 (0) 1264 353123. Fax: +44 (0) 1264 354883. E-mail: mitumark@aol.com