Coordinate Measuring Machines

CMM Machines For Measurements And Surveys

CMM machines, or coordinate measurement machines, are used to measure devices or products that you would like to copy or understand. They give you a precise measurement of the distance between two points on a 3D object, which makes them the ideal devices to use for quality inspection or when you need to reverse engineer a part from a competitor’s product or study an object in-depth. CMM machines can also help you save money on your production costs for any new product you plan to manufacture.

If you work in an industry in which even the smallest fraction of an inch can have serious consequences, then you need the most precise measurement technology on the market. Our Metrology Lab measuring systems, including our coordinate measuring machines (CMMs), are designed for accurate measurements so that you can count on high-level quality assurance in every measurement you take.

The Many Uses of CMM Machines

A CMM machine is a device that can be used in reverse engineering. When your business wants to understand the competition’s products, your R&D staff can use these devices to take precise measurements of the products under consideration.

This is for those situations when you do not need the macro measurements that you would get from a ruler, but rather the microscopic measurements that tell you the size of various components down to the fraction of a centimeter. When you have these measurements, you can proceed with your project with the utmost confidence.

Accuracy and Versatility

Available in many sizes, CMM machines can perform many different types of measurements. Some look like microscopes from a lab, but there are others that can accommodate much larger projects. Touch probes, also called touch-trigger probes, are used with CMM machines to measure surfaces that are difficult to image or to capture on video.

CMM machines are ideal for use in scientific work as well as in reverse engineering. When you have studied a competitor’s device down to the smallest measurements, it’s easier to determine how to create your own version of it that will not infringe any patents.

No matter what industry you’re in, using CMM machines can help you in many ways -- from improving visual simulation to cutting down on the amount of scrap material your operation produces. Shop with us today for CMM machines and parts such as DCC servo control boards for your existing machines.

Why Do I Need a Coordinate Measuring Machine?

You may need CMM if you work in an industry that requires perfect measurement accuracy for manufacturing, inspections or quality assurance. A CMM machine can give you precise measurements in many dimensions as it calculates the distances between coordinates in 3D. Parts these days are complex, and you need to have great skill to measure them correctly through traditional methods. A CCM can help you get the right figures every time so that you can be confident you're doing the best possible job.

Benefits and Limitations of a Coordinate Measuring Machine

We've already mentioned the major benefit of a CMM: accuracy when you need it. Because CMMs are computerized, they save time and have a measurement capability far beyond what traditional measurement systems can accomplish and with the smallest possible chance of measurement errors. What's more, CMMs can perform dimensional measurements of all kinds, including measuring volume and height, as well as a full dimensional inspection as needed.

On the other hand, since CMMs are fully computerized, they require training, and there can be a learning curve as operators get used to the intricacies of these machines. Furthermore, CMMs require continual maintenance to keep them operating smoothly and accurately. Our quality labs can help you find the parts you need to keep your CMM in top operating condition. Finally, you must be sure to choose the style and size of CMM that is appropriate for your purposes. This requires research and advice from our CMM experts.

Different Types of CMMs

Indeed, there are many different types of CMMs. Some use touch probes that actually touch the part to be measured. Others use optical probes or even high-tech laser probes for measuring dimensions. Depending on what you need to measure, whether the parts are small or large, you might choose from the most common bridge CMM, the larger gantry CMM, a cantilever model with especially high accuracy for smaller parts, or a horizontal arm CMM for the larger measurements. Your choice of instruments will depend on your company's needs.

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