LK Metrology CMMs Enable Repeatable Inspection of Bulky Workpieces
The bridge-type Altera SF models feature large measuring volumes that enable bulky workpieces to be inspected near where they are produced, while the extra capacity affords more operational flexibility.
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LK Metrology has introduced eight bridge-type Altera SF models that provide laboratory-grade accuracy. These CMMs have nominal axis travels ranging from 1,000 × 1,000 × 800 mm up to 4,000 × 1,500 × 1,500 mm. The large measuring volumes mean that bulky workpieces can be inspected near where they are produced, while the extra capacity affords more operational flexibility by enabling QC requirements to be met across a wider variety of component sizes.
All SF-series CMMs have a ceramic bridge and spindle with high stiffness-to-weight ratios, thermal characteristics, dimensional stability and longevity. Friction drives with air bearings provide smooth axis movements, leading to high-accuracy laser or analogue scanning or touch-trigger probing. A Renishaw PH10MQ PLUS indexing probe head or a REVO2 head, which converts the CMM into a five-axis Scantek model, may be used. Both heads support multisensor technology.
Covers protect the guideways from thermal influence, accidental damage and contamination, aided by positive internal air pressure to prevent the ingress of dust and vapour particles. Fans under the granite table ensure a continuous flow of ambient air to avoid thermal imbalance in environments where there is no temperature control. Temperature sensors embedded in each axis of the CMM monitor heat fluctuations within the structure and compensate all measurements to a 20 °C reference. Optionally, thermistors can be clamped or attached magnetically to a workpiece, or integrated into its fixture.
Altera SF machines incorporate glass-ceramic optical scales that have zero thermal expansion as well as optimized immunity to contamination, minimizing potential sources of measurement error. The low-maintenance scales provide long-term stability, while signal stabilization results in low and predictable interpolation error.
Elastomer antivibration and shock-absorbing mounts isolate the CMM from sources of mechanical disturbance, such as machine tools. Passive antivibration may be specified, but to ensure maximum measurement accuracy, active intelligent antivibration is recommended. It involves built-in magnetic field sensors that detect the load on the table and monitor its height and level, enabling them to be automatically adjusted electro-pneumatically to within ±0.1 mm and 0.9 mm respectively.
Altera SF machines, which feature LK NMC300 multipurpose controller and CAMIO software suite, are ready for in-line or line-side automation to suit large-volume production. Status lights on the CMMs are standard, as is real-time monitoring of quality data, CMM performance and system status on smart devices. Numerous safety features protect personnel and the equipment itself, without compromising productivity and efficiency. An optional EcoAir function reduces compressed air consumption by 95% when the CMM is idle to reduce operating costs.
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