Manufacturers wishing to progress from manual metrology to using a CNC CMM have a new option to consider: the new ALTO 6.5.5 from LK Metrology. Appealing to the entry-point of the CMM market, the machine has guideways made from aluminium, lowering the capital cost compared with using ceramic, as is the case with most LK CMMs. Several design features deliver a surprisingly compact measuring machine, with the high accuracy and rapid throughput normally associated with more expensive systems, reports the company.

The CMM is of half-gantry design, which improves accuracy by shortening on one side the leg supporting the bridge. Additionally, the fixed aperture created beneath the short leg facilitates the easier loading and unloading of components from that side of the machine.

Micro-machining of the aluminium elements by fly-cutting an unclamped condition eliminates distortion that might occur on releasing conventional fixtures after milling. All of the aluminium parts undergo hard anodising before assembly of the CMM, creating a 50 µm thick layer that imparts extreme durability and prevents corrosion.

Designed for touch-trigger probing only, the CMM is capable of capturing precise measurements very rapidly, as it is able to deploy a motorised PH20 five-axis probe head from Renishaw for a three-fold increase in inspection speed. Continuous angular rotation and infinite positioning (similar to the company’s top of the range REVO2 probing system) avoids having to move the machine’s X, Y, and Z axes at high speed, minimising dynamic errors. For some measurements in a cycle, it is not necessary to move the linear axes at all. The results are better accuracy and repeatability.

Furthermore, five-axis motion allows the measurement of larger parts on the CMM by minimising the space required around the component for head rotation. Unsurprisingly the PH20 is the most expensive probe head on offer. So, mindful that price is likely to constrain many potential ALTO purchasers, LK alternatively offers lower-cost motorised and manual head options.
For further information www.lkmetrology.com

The University of Wolverhampton Racing Team (UWR), which competes in the annual Formula Student competition,is using Moore & Wright metrology tools from Bowers Group.
Formula Student places rigorous demands on participating teams, requiring them to design, constructand race a single-seat race car. The process is one in which precision engineering plays a vital role in ensuring both optimal performance and vehicle safety.

As part of the annual event, the UWR team faces the challenge of creating a car from scratch that not only meets rigorous performance standards, but also adheres to strict design and manufacturing tolerances. Bowers Group has been a valued sponsor of the University of Wolverhampton Racing Team for many years.Through its sponsorship, Bowers Group supplies both the UWR team and the School of Engineering with the tools needed to maximiseracing performance and enhance practical learning.

Paul Bates, technical andbusiness resource manager at the University of Wolverhampton, says: “The Moore & Wright tools available in our metrology suite offer hands-on experience for our students, including those in the Formula Student project. It helps them understand precision measurement and the importance of accuracy.”

He adds: “These tools play a significant role in our Formula Student team’s daily work. They rely on them for accurate measurements, and it’s notable that many team members have even purchased their own sets. That speaks volumes for the quality and reliability of the tools.”

The team uses a Moore & Wright caliper, for example, to measure components, check brake discs, assess wheel alignment, verify engine machining and ensure safety cage integrity. It is also gauges wheel hub dimensions and ensures the accurate fit and finish of multiple components.
For further information www.bowersgroup.co.uk