Blum-Novotest presented it new MG81 multi-purpose measuring device at the Control 2025 exhibition in Stuttgart earlier this month. The compact device, which is the size of a bank card, has been specially developed for sensor-based status assessment of clamping systems. The recorded values are transmitted wirelessly to the machine tool control system in real time, meaning they can be incorporated directly into the process.

Winfried Weiland, head of marketing at Blum-Novotest explains: “The aim of an automated machining process in the spirit of Industry 4.0 is to record all relevant influences and come up with appropriate actions. With the new MG81, we’re integrating the transmission system and sensor technology directly into the clamping systems, making it is possible to record important process data in real time during machining. This includes the current workpiece temperature, the clamping pressure, the presence of the workpiece and the clamping jaw position. As a result, the machining centre can access and react to the process-relevant data of the clamping device at any time.”

For instance, the MG81 is used in automated processes in which workpieces with strongly fluctuating input temperatures undergo machining. Sensors integrated into the clamping jaws record the temperature of the current part, which is then transmitted to the control system, where it can be immediately evaluated in the process.

The system is also used to monitor the clamping pressure. This is how corresponding sensors can detect whether a workpiece is being clamped securely and with constant force. Another example is automatic pre-positioning of the clamping jaws according to the current workpiece size that will be machined: if workpieces with different dimensions are to be automatically fed to the clamping device, the process is supported by integrated position measuring sensors.

More information www.blum-novotest.com

Hexagon’s Manufacturing Intelligence division has launched Maestro, an all-new, next-generation CMM engineered from the ground up to meet the rising productivity demands of modern manufacturing. Designed to combat global skills shortages and increasing quality requirements, Hexagon says that Maestro sets a new standard for speed, simplicity and digital integration.

Maestro is built upon four principles: to be fast, easy to use, connected and scalable. Its digital-first architecture offers the industry rapid measurement routines, an intuitive user experience and seamless data integration. With modular software and hardware, it is designed to scale with evolving production needs, making it suitable for aerospace, automotive and high-precision manufacturing environments where there is a high demand for accuracy to deliver safety, compliance and performance.

The CMM’s newly-developed digital architecture incorporates digital sensors, a single cable system and a completely new controller. Together, these capabilities increase throughput, streamline the complete measurement operation and ensure future-ready connectivity for modern production environments.

According to Hexagon, Maestro delivers industry-leading throughput through high-speed motion while maintaining exceptional precision. Synchronised axis movements, rapid calibration and cloud-connected software significantly accelerate set-up, programming, execution and reporting.

“Manufacturers told us they needed a next-generation system that tackles rising quality demands and skills shortages,” says Jörg Deller, general manager of stationary metrology devices at Hexagon. “By rethinking our hardware and software from the ground up, rather than iterating on existing systems, we’ve had the freedom to create a high-accuracy inspection solution which is so intuitive that anyone from experts to new hires become significantly more productive.”

Pilot users report dramatic productivity gains and reduced inspection lead times, helping to avoid production bottlenecks and to keep pace with fast-changing customer requirements.

More information www.bit.ly/4mcLOC0

In 2021, cylindrical grinding machine manufacturer Grindex, based in northern Serbia, installed its first CMM, an Altera M 20.12.10 manufactured in the UK by LK Metrology. The ex-demo machine is in daily use checking tolerances mainly to below ±0.05 mm and sometimes half that value. When the company was looking to invest, a CMM was chosen in preference to an optical scanning metrology solution, which was not regarded as being sufficiently accurate, probably by a factor of 10.

Having a nominal inspection volume of 2000 x 1200 x 1000 mm, the CMM is installed in a dedicated inspection room in the user’s Kikinda factory. The machine was supplied with a touch-trigger probe for general inspection and complex stylus builds, and an analogue scanning probe for rapid capture of dimensional and surface data from castings, engine housings, machined components, moulded parts, fabrications, additively manufactured components and assemblies. Training and initial programming assistance formed part of the LK package, as well as ongoing consultancy.

The LK machine was selected in preference to alternative brands of CMM based on recommendations from other manufacturing companies. Notably, the equipment has considerably upgraded the metrology capability of Grindex, whose quality control toolbox was previously limited to a profile projector, micrometers, height gauges, callipers and a combined machine for roughness testing and checking the roundness of smaller parts.

With the CMM, more comprehensive and earlier detection of out-of-tolerance features provide the ability to spot errors in a metal-cutting program earlier, lowering costs both through more efficient production and a reduction in scrapped parts.

Nikola Biresev, quality manager at Grindex, says: “The LK CMM is used not only for quality control activities and problem-solving, but also to support R&D.”

More information www.lkmetrology.com

Nikon Corporation has launched the VOXLS 20 C 225, the latest addition to its VOXLS X-ray CT product line up. This system is based on the established principles of the company’s VOXLS 30 and 40 series systems, offering maximum capability in a space-efficient footprint.

According to Nikon, the VOXLS 20 C 225 presents the largest CT scanning envelope in a system that fits through a standard double door, allowing for flexible integration to almost any quality control or production environments. It features Nikon’s metrology-grade platform with a granite base, rigid steel manipulator towers, and high-accuracy encoders and motors.

The machine offers an inspection volume of 555 mm (diameter) x 759 mm (H) in a compact footprint of 2451 mm (L) x 1173 mm (D). It features a motorised dual-source set up with a 225 kV reflection target and 160 kV transmission target, allowing users to choose the optimal source for their application at the push of a button. This enables automated and fast switchover between the reflection target (for higher productivity due to increased X-ray flux) and transmission target (for best possible resolution).

Source optimisation de-skills the process of setting up the filament for optimal performance, simplifies the filament change process, and provides longer filament lifetime.

For enhanced usability, the machine incorporates features like filter changer, a motorised door that opens in under 4 seconds, and a large viewing window for excellent interior visibility.

As a point of note, versatile scan capabilities support motorised FID and advanced scan modes, enabling a wide range of inspection techniques for diverse applications. The first Nikon VOXLS 20 C 225 systems are scheduled for delivery this autumn and will serve industries including additive manufacturing, aerospace, automotive and medical device.

More information www.bit.ly/4d9NRTc

Ametek Inc and Faro Technologies have entered into a definitive agreement under which Ametek will acquire all outstanding shares of Faro Technologies’ common stock for $44 per share in cash, which represents an approximate 40% premium to Faro’s closing price on 5 May 2025. The transaction values Faro at approximately $920m. The boards of directors of both companies have unanimously approved the transaction.

Founded in 1981 and headquartered in Lake Mary, Florida, Faro Technologies is a provider of 3D measurement and imaging solutions, including portable measurement arms, laser scanners and trackers, software solutions, and service offerings. Faro’s precision manufacturing and digital reality solutions serve a diverse range of end markets. The company has annual sales of approximately $340m.

“Faro is an outstanding acquisition for Ametek and an excellent strategic fit with our Ultra Precision Technologies division,” says David Zapico, Ametek chairman and CEO. “Faro’s differentiated 3D metrology and imaging solutions expand our presence in attractive growth markets. Its strong brand, global customer base, employees and technology capabilities complement our existing Creaform business and provide compelling opportunities for growth and margin expansion.”

Peter Lau, president, CEO and director of Faro Technologies adds: “With Ametek’s global scale, operational excellence and commitment to innovation, we’re well-positioned to accelerate our growth and continue delivering cutting-edge solutions to customers around the world.”

The transaction is subject to customary closing conditions, including applicable regulatory approvals. It is also subject to the approval of shareholders in Faro Technologies. The transaction is expected to complete in the second half of 2025.

More information www.ametek.com