Published 10/16/2019

Product Spotlight: Measurement and Inspection

This month’s Modern Equipment Review Spotlight focuses on technologies for part measurement, tool setting and machine inspection.

Jedd Cole

Former Production Editor, Modern Machine Shop

The API Swivelcheck measures and calibrates machine tool rotary axes, tilt tables and pendulum axes, validating rotary axis performance. The product uses a servo-driven motor in conjunction with an electronic level and precision rotary encoder to measure multiple parameters in a single setup.

The instrument can operate in automated or manual modes. It includes API’s Intellicomp software for control, data acquisition and reporting. Intellicomp imports measured axis data directly to the machine’s CNC, enabling the operator to update system parameters for improved precision. Swivelcheck can also be used in conjunction with the company’s XD laser interferometer to measure horizontal rotary table position. Read more.

Heidenhain’s Quadra-Chek (QC) 2000 evaluation unit is designed for everyday part measuring and metrology tasks. Measuring point acquisition uses crosshairs, optical edge detection on profile projectors, measuring microscopes and 2D measuring machines with up to three axes.

For complex and repetitive measuring tasks, QC 2000 users can automatically record a measuring program and run it at any time. A digital readout keeps track of the presets, sequence of measurements, tolerances and data-output commands. When the recorded measuring program is executed again, the QC 2000 displays visual instructions relating to the features to be probed, thereby providing direct and repeatable guidance for the user. Read more.

Coupled with Renishaw’s Revo-2 multi-sensor scanning system, LK Metrology’s Altera Scantek 5 coordinate measuring machine (CMM) performs five-axis inspection for dimensional accuracy and surface finish. The CMM’s cross-beam and spindle are made of ceramic, providing a high stiffness-to-weight ratio for responsiveness as well as mechanical and thermal stability for consistent performance in various environments.

The CMM includes Renishaw’s intuitive Modus software for importing data, controlling the CMM, acquiring results, and reporting, including geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T) labeling. The machine’s 500-mm-per-sec. scanning speed boosts measurement throughput, shortens production lead times and prevents a manufacturer’s metrology department from becoming a bottleneck. Read more.

Marposs has expanded its TS line of contact tool setters with the VOTS 90° optical-transmission probe for use on vertical machining centers. With its horizontal design, the VOTS 90° can be installed on the machine table outside the working area. The product is said to save machining space without compromising on tool inspection. Additionally, the low measurement force along the Z axis makes the probe ideal for presetting and verification of small tools. Read more.

Q-Mark’s diamond stylus, offered in all standard thread sizes and configurations, can be used when measuring hard, abrasive or very soft surfaces. The company claims that the tip will not wear when used with high probing or scanning forces, thereby maintaining precision in measurement. Read more.

The third generation of Master3DGage, a portable rapid 3D inspection and reverse engineering product powered by Verisurf, is designed to increase efficiency, improve part quality and reduce scrap on the shop floor. The integrated hardware and software product delivers automated in-process inspection to the shop floor, providing first-article inspection and reporting in minutes, according to the company.

“Manufacturers can not only extend a 3D model-based workflow from CAD to CAM to computer aided inspection, but they can also reverse engineer parts into the 3D model-based process, thus improving quality, saving time and eliminating drawings,” says Austin Husted, the hardware product manager. Read more.