Renishaw has expanded its machine tool probing range with two products designed to bring more inspection processes directly on to the machine tool: RMP400S, an all-in-one spindle probe; and RUP60, an ultrasonic thickness measurement probe. 

The RMP400S combines touch-trigger, scanning and surface-finish verification in a single device. Based on patented RENGAGE strain gauge technology, it delivers repeatability of 0.25 μm 2 σ and surface-finish measurement down to Ra 0.5 μm. 

“High-density scanning provides users with comprehensive data for enhanced traceability and reliability in manufacturing,” says Justin Walford, principal product marketing engineer for Renishaw’s Machine Tool Products Division. “This includes run-out, form, flatness, roughness and waviness measurements, providing a more complete picture of workpiece quality.” 

Integrated surface finish verification helps identify potential issues before they escalate. For applications such as bore and boss machining, a single RMP400S probe and stylus combination can perform touch-trigger, scanning and surface-verification tasks that might previously have required multiple tools. 

The RUP60 is Renishaw’s first on-machine ultrasonic thickness measurement probe, designed for parts where access is limited to one side, such as aerospace components. It enables automated thickness measurement without removing the workpiece, measuring metal thicknesses from 0.7 to 30 mm in just two seconds per point, with accuracy better than 10 μm and repeatability of 2 μm. 

“Ultrasonic thickness measurement is a readily accepted technique, now innovatively adapted to the machining environment for fast, highly accurate and repeatable measurement,” states Heather Ormston, lead product marketing engineer. 

Both probes communicate with the machine controller via Renishaw’s RMM-QE radio receiver and are supported by Inspection Plus, Set and Inspect, and Renishaw Central, enabling integration with existing inspection and quality-control workflows. 

More information www.renishaw.com 

Don Whitley Scientific (DWS), a manufacturer of specialised equipment for microbiology, cell culture and laboratory automation, has transformed its quality assurance processes after investing in an Altera C 15.9.7 CMM from LK Metrology. 

Based in Bingley, West Yorkshire, DWS manufactures complex components for medical gloveboxes using technologies including casting, moulding, fabrication, additive manufacturing and CNC machining. With some components requiring tolerances as fine as 0.01 mm, the company recognised the need for more precise and repeatable inspection, while also moving away from paper-based processes. 

The LK Altera CMM, supplied with CAMIO 2026 software, enables DWS to verify dimensional accuracy before components enter production or spares are dispatched. Components are also sampled during manufacture, allowing the identification of process drift before the completion of entire batches. 

Previously, inspection relied on micrometers, vernier callipers and bore gauges. Measurement variation could result in non-conforming parts being accepted and batches requiring rework or scrapping. Since introducing the CMM, production efficiency has improved by around 30%, while scrap and rework have fallen by approximately 90%. 

CAMIO has also enabled DWS to adopt GD&T, including true position tolerances, improving part-to-part interchangeability and reducing fitting and rework. Automated programming using PMI and the CMM’s multi-sensor capability provide further scope for future development. 

“We’ve never looked back since buying the LK CMM,” states Fergus Murray, director of engineering at DWS. “The whole experience has far exceeded our expectations. The support from LK has been second to none. We always feel respected and know someone will respond quickly whenever we need help. The consultative approach made the buying process very straightforward.” 

LK’s ability to supply a machine from stock, customise its height to suit DWS’s premises and provide UK-based technical support were key factors in the decision. 

More information www.lkmetrology.com 

Renishaw has extended the capabilities of its XK20 alignment laser by introducing flatness and level measurement functionality to its CARTO XK20 app. This gives users additional tools to measure and adjust geometric errors during machine build and alignment, adding to the XK20 alignment laser’s existing measurement capabilities, which include straightness, parallelism and squareness.

The new release of the CARTO XK20 app enables users to measure surface flatness and machine level, providing deeper insight into overall machine accuracy. These measurements are critical parameters in ensuring the performance and longevity of machine tools and stages, particularly in applications where precision and repeatability are essential.

“The addition of flatness and level measurement in the CARTO XK20 app is a valuable enhancement for our customers,” states James Meaden, XK20 product expert at Renishaw. “It allows users to measure a broader range of geometric features with a single system, reducing the need for multiple tools and improving efficiency.”

Designed for ease of use, the CARTO XK20 app guides users through the measurement process and presents clear, actionable results. This latest release reflects Renishaw’s ongoing commitment to supporting customers with tools that simplify machine calibration and help improve productivity.

By extending the functionality of the XK20 alignment laser system, Renishaw allows customers to gain a more complete understanding of their machine geometry and helps them maintain optimal performance with confidence.

The updated CARTO XK20 app is available now on the Google Play Store.

More information www.renishaw.com