FEATURE ON METROLOGY

Blue laser scanner for CMMs now available from LK

A next-generation laser scanner designed for use on CMMs has been launched by LK Metrology, a global specialist in precision metrology solutions. Building on the success of the L100, the new L100NX introduces advanced blue laser technology, delivering superior scanning performance, accuracy and user experience.

Unlike its predecessor, which utilised red laser light, the new scanner employs a 450 nm blue light laser that reduces noise in scan data, resulting in cleaner and more reliable measurements. The advance is particularly beneficial for high-precision applications where data integrity is critical, such as in the aerospace and automotive sectors.

The L100NX combines speed and precision with a wide stripe width of 110 mm and a scanning rate of up to 530,000 points per second, making it suitable for inspecting large components productively. Its high accuracy ensures that even demanding inspection tasks may be handled with confidence.

At the heart of the L100NX is LK’s 4th-generation ESP (enhanced sensor performance) technology, which intelligently adjusts laser power for all 2000 points on the laser line. This capability allows the scanner to measure multi-material assemblies and reflective surfaces seamlessly without surface preparation or other manual intervention, streamlining the inspection process and reducing operator workload.

To further enhance usability, the sensor features an integrated rotation adaptor, enabling optimal orientation of the scanner for inspecting complex part geometries. Additionally, an integrated FOV (field of view) projector visually displays the scanner’s coverage area directly on to the part, simplifying programming and set up.

The L100NX scanner kit comes in a protective casing that, in addition to the scanner itself, contains all necessary accessories and documentation required for operation and basic maintenance.

More information www.lkmetrology.com

Delta XD achieves Nadcap accreditation for measurement

Basingstoke-based Delta XD, a Zeiss-certified metrology partner and provider of advanced dimensional inspection services, has achieved Nadcap AC7130/4 accreditation for 3D structured light (3DSL) systems. The accreditation was awarded following the company’s first audit, building upon Delta XD’s existing certifications: AS9100D, Cyber Essentials and JOSCAR.

The accreditation covers both in-house services with Delta XD’s Zeiss ScanBox and ATOS system, and on-site inspection using portable 3D scanning equipment — a capability held by only a handful of companies worldwide. Nadcap accreditation is widely recognised as irrefutable evidence of a company’s capability to operate at the highest level of quality and safety.

With more than 50 aerospace prime subscribers requiring Nadcap throughout their supply chains, including Rolls-Royce, the achievement demonstrates Delta XD’s ability to support aerospace OEMs and their supply chains with the highest assurance standards.

“We’re very pleased to have secured Nadcap accreditation in such a positive way,” says Daniel Lainchbury, COO of Delta XD. “This milestone underlines our expertise and commitment to high standards. It’s recognition not only of our technical capabilities, but also of the dedication of our team. We look forward to maintaining this accreditation and working towards Merit status in due course.”

Delta XD’s achievement of Nadcap accreditation sends a clear message to existing and future customers: the company is committed to delivering accredited, high-precision 3D scanning services that meet the most stringent aerospace and defence standards.

More information https://delta-xd.com/

New digital pressure scanner suits testing in tiny spaces

Gas measurement and control solutions specialist Chell Instruments has launched its smallest digital pressure scanner to date, the picoDAQ. Measuring just 83.4 x 14.8 x 9.6 mm, the tiny dimensions of the picoDAQ make it suitable for high-accuracy pressure testing in applications where space is limited but precision remains critical.

“Even the slightest variation in pressure can impact performance – meaning every part, place and condition must be measured with absolute accuracy,” explains Jamie Shanahan, director of Chell Instruments. “To give our customers even greater versatility, we’re introducing our smallest pressure scanner yet, built to fit within even the most confined testing environment.”

Despite its ultra-compact size, the picoDAQ does not compromise on its measurement capabilities, delivering up to 0.03% FS accuracy output. As a fully configurable smart pressure scanner, the new device can output pressure data in engineering units over Ethernet and CAN, using both CAN-FD and ‘classic’ CAN.

The picoDAQ makes use of 17 absolute transducers which are thermally compensated and conditioned to provide 16 absolute or differential measurements relative to the one reference port. Due to its rugged outer casing and components sealed to IP67, the picoDAQ is especially valuable within automotive and aerospace testing.

“From wind tunnel to on-track or in-flight testing, our pressure scanners are vital tools in the design, development and validation of aerodynamics in vehicle and aircraft testing,” says Shanahan. “Given these sectors’ need for accuracy and continual improvements in speed and performance, we’re confident the picoDAQ will give our automotive and motorsport clients new ways of enhancing aerodynamics.”

More information www.chell.co.uk

OGP unveils large-capacity SmartScope M130

Optical Gaging Products (OGP), a global specialist in the manufacture of optical and precision multi-sensor metrology systems for industrial quality control, is releasing the latest addition to the next evolution of its SmartScope 3D range: the SmartScope M130.


For manufacturers producing large, heavy parts, SmartScope M130 ushers in the next generation of enhancements in image accuracy, optics and throughput in a new large format 3D multi-sensor video measurement platform.

Tim Fantauzzo, VP of sales in North America, says: “The SmartScope M-Series family has quickly been adopted by manufacturers seeking unrivalled confidence in repeatability and reliability. Larger parts can obviously contain many more detailed features. The M130 optical system is truly telecentric with no distortion, so manufacturers making large, heavy parts can achieve more accurate measurements, particularly at low magnification with far more part features in the field of view.”

At the core of SmartScope M130 is the patented IntelliCentric-M optical system, featuring fixed optics with a 20-megapixel camera and proprietary Virtual Zoom technology. Built from the ground up at OGP headquarters in Rochester, USA, the streamlined IntelliCentric-M optics employ a variety of exclusive technologies that allow for instant magnification changes over the same zoom range as a traditional mechanical zoom system. The result is faster run time and far less downtime for maintenance.
 

Providing a standard XYZ travel of 790 x 815 x 200 mm (optional 300 or 400 mm Z axis) and payload capacity of 75 kg, SmartScope M130 also sports a new base design that presents customers with a lower stage height. Users can now load and unload heavy parts or oversized fixtures with ease.
More information www.ogpnet.com/m-series

CMM range built for use in production environments

RUN is Ready Metrology’s answer to the evolving needs of modern manufacturing, a line of CMMs designed specifically for use in production. Combining precision, robustness and ease of use, RUN systems deliver metrology-grade results directly on the shop floor, enabling fast inspection, feedback and control at every stage of the manufacturing process.

Developed with a clear goal — to make measurements simple, fast, and reliable — RUN systems integrate seamlessly into production workflows. Linear motors guarantee maintenance-free operation, eliminating the need for air supply or lubrication, and ensuring long-term reliability even in challenging environments.


Ease of operation is at the heart of RUN’s design. The Easy Runner interface allows operators to load and execute inspection programs with a single touch, while the moving table and optional clamping kit ensure quick and ergonomic part handling.


Robot integration is facilitated by the moving table structure: both portal and measuring head are always out of the motion range, increasing safety during set-up procedures and allowing faster part loading.


Switching from one part to another takes only a few seconds — operators simply scan a barcode to load a new program, and the machine performs measurement and reporting automatically.

RUN systems include advanced features that enhance performance and longevity, such an automatic stylus cleaning unit and an active anti-vibration granite base with pneumatic dampers. These elements guarantee accuracy and repeatability, even under real shop-floor conditions.

Designed for both end-of-line control and in-process verification, RUN delivers immediate measurement data to help manufacturers prevent deviations, reduce scrap and shorten set-up times. Integrated CAD import and GD&T analysis provide complete insight into part geometry, ensuring compliance with specifications and accelerating process improvement.

More information www.readymetrology.com