Renishaw ACS-1 keeps calibration simply accurate

Spindle probes for CNC machine tools can be highly repeatable, but their performance relies on accurate calibration. Renishaw has developed a simple solution to overcome the challenges associated with the manual probe calibration process, while consistently achieving high levels of repeatability. Accurate calibration ensures the probe’s performance is repeatable within the machine tool environment.

Today, many users perform the probe calibration process manually, which can cause variability even among skilled operators. Inaccurate probe calibration can affect all subsequent measurements; ACS-1 addresses this via a lockable mechanism that removes the need to use precision gauge blocks or slip gauges.

ACS-1 is mounted on the machine tool table or chuck using its magnetic base. A test bar (or a tool of known length) establishes an accurate datum surface by pushing the plunger down to the desired position; the plunger is locked in place. The probe’s overall length can be accurately calibrated, using the calibration disk (the top surface of the lockable plunger). The probe’s stylus ball diameter calibration takes place on the datum sphere, which can be mounted in two different positions on ACS-1, according to the CNC machine configuration.

In terms of advantages, the datum sphere can be mounted on one of two faces, both at a 45° angle. According to Renishaw, the mounting options allow ACS-1 to be the optimal probe calibration device for various CNC machine tool configurations. This includes vertical mills, lathes, turn-mills and five-axis machining centres, as the magnetic base allows the artefact to be mounted vertically or horizontally. The ACS-1 can determine the probe’s overall length and stylus ball diameter within minutes, and does not require batteries.
For further information www.renishaw.com/acs

Automated quality control with cobots

In a desire to provide easier access to automation, Creaform is unveiling the latest version of its VXscan-R software module for the VXelements 10 platform. This new version offers compatibility with a wider range of robots, including collaborative robots (cobots).

VXscan-R software is an integral part of the Creaform R-Series. According to the company, the software is the optimal automated 3D scanning solution for at-line applications, in turnkey solutions, or for customisable layouts. VXscan-R offers a reliable and accurate digital twin environment for program preparation, scan simulations and execution. Used with the MetraScan 3D-R, a robot-mounted optical CMM scanner, the R-Series is for companies that want to find defects earlier and ensure that all parts are measured correctly, without human impact and subjectivity.

With its lightweight and compact design, this new offer of cobots in the R-Series can be deployed easily and rapidly, regardless of the user’s level of expertise or experience.

Notably, the MetraScan 3D-R offers high-performance optics, blue laser technology and 360° target coverage, providing optimal measurement accuracy, speed, versatility and operational simplicity in quality control tasks.

“By adding the cobots to the R-Series offer, and by supporting more industrial robots, we can guarantee that the best scanning technology powered by offline programming software is accessible to businesses of all sizes,” explains Jérôme-Alexandre Lavoie, product manager at Creaform. “Truly, harnessing the power of automation has never been easier.”
For further information www.creaform3d.com

Nagel honoured by Bosch

The Bosch Group has honoured Nagel with a ‘Preferred Supplier’ certificate. Bosch only awards the certificate to suppliers who demonstrate outstanding competence in all fields and have shown above-average performance in the market. Important criteria include quality, delivery performance and reliability, pricing and costing, as well as availability, internal and external sales force communication, and innovative capability. Nagel is a specialist in honing and superfinishing technology represented by over 1850 employees at 26 locations worldwide.
For further information www.nagel.com

Ultimaker and MakerBot complete merger

MakerBot and Ultimaker, two specialists in desktop 3D printing, have completed their merger. Under the new brand, Ultimaker, the company aims to provide easy-to-use and accessible 3D printing hardware, software and materials for any application, driving the industry to a future state of responsible and sustainable manufacturing. The newly formed entity will invest capital to accelerate growth, drive new product innovation, further research and development, and strengthen its presence across the Americas, EMEA, and Asia-Pacific through market expansions.
For further information, www.ultimaker.com

Recognition for apprentices

An advanced engineering and manufacturing apprentice from Telford was named as the region’s brightest vocational star last week. Torus Measurement Systems’ James Morgan overcame competition from more than 100 apprentices across the West Midlands to secure the ‘Outstanding Learner of the Year’ title at this year’s annual In-Comm Training Awards in Birmingham. The high-profile ceremony, which is backed by main sponsor the Engineering Technology Group (ETG), saw ‘girl power’ come to the fore again, with four out of the eight personal accolades won by females.
For further information www.in-comm.co.uk