Sonny Leung
3 min readDec 14, 2015

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How to Choose Coordinate Measuring Machine CMM (一)

The quality objective in the manufacturing industry is to keep the production and design requirements of the parts in line. However, maintaining the consistency of the production process requirements needs to control manufacturing process. The most effective method to establish and maintain the consistency of manufacturing process is to measure the dimension of the workpiece accurately, and to analyze and feedback data to the production process, so as to make it an effective tool for improving the quality of products.

Coordinate measuring machine is one of the most effective methods for measuring and acquiring size data, because it can replace a variety of surface measurement tools and expensive combination gauge , and can decrease complex measuring tasks required time from hours to minutes. The function of coordinate measuring machine is to evaluate size data quickly and accurately, and to provide useful information for the operator with regard to the production process. Here are some advice on how to choose coordinate measuring machine cmm from Sonny.

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Coordinate measuring machine measures by means of a sensor called probe contacting workpiece. Obtained data can be combined with size describe of workpiece or some characteristic (e.g. hole). Via these dimensions, it is easier to judge whether the workpiece or the feature is overproof. This information also provides clues to correct the abnormal production process.

First, to determine which type of coordinate measuring machine to purchase. According to the CMM measuring head placement orientation, there are three basic types: vertical, horizontal and portable.

Vertical CMM probe is installed in the vertical arm. The accuracy of this measuring machine is more confidential than horizontal ones, because the bridge structure is stable and has less moving parts. So they have better rigidity and stability. Vertical CMM contains a variety of sizes, it can measure workpiece from the pinion to the engine casing, even commercial aircraft fuselage.

Horizontal CMM coordinate measuring machine’s probe is mounted on a horizontal axis. They are generally applied to the detection of large workpieces, such as car body, with moderate levels of accuracy. Direction of horizontal measurement makes the coordination between measuring machine and horizontal machining equipment reasonable. They are particularly suitable for measuring those big gear box and engine housing, which need precision measurements.

Portable CMM coordinate measuring machine simplifies assemblies measurement which can not be moved to measuring machine. Portable CMM can be installed in parts or assemblies above even inside, which can achieve the interior space measurement, and allows users measure at assembly site, thus saving the time to move, transport and measure individual workpiece.

In order to maintain a solid CMM, in the design process, generally by means of increasing the cross section of structural components, increasing the distance between air bearing, increasing the driving force of the motor and thus improves the quality, performance rigidity, accuracy, repeatability and measurement speed, acceleration. These principles have also applied to some of the horizontal workshop-type coordinate measuring machine.

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