Extra stability for portable measuring arms

All 34 portable measuring arms offered in six-axis touch-probing and seven-axis multi-sensor variants by LK Metrology, are now available as standard with a 4.5-inch diameter mounting ring that allows the unit to sit on a larger base (3.5-inch ring previously). The new Version 3 Freedom arms are subsequently capable of measuring to higher precision. LK can supply a mounting ring adapter if an existing user already owns an LK tripod or stand with a 3.5-inch mount. Mechanical, magnetic and vacuum fixing alternatives are available.

As previously, the latest mobile metrology solutions feature a lightweight carbon-fibre tubular construction. Position feedback arrives courtesy of absolute rather than incremental rotary encoders, with the arms available in three accuracy categories: Classic, Select and Ultimate. Each is now capable of significantly higher accuracy measurement of size, position and form, whether using a tactile probe or laser scanner. Probing accuracy carries certification to ISO 10360-12 with functionality guaranteed up to 40°C.

The work-hardened six-axis arms offer full IP54 protection from water splashes and the ingress of dust and particles, delivering reliable, repeatable 3D inspection and measurement in harsh industrial environments. Also provided is enhanced RDS v6.4 software running on Windows for communicating with the arm via Wi-Fi or USB. The software offers improved monitoring of parameters such as ambient temperature and stress on the articulated joints, as well as base vibration, displacement, tilt and inclination.

The seven-axis Freedom Arm v3 does not offer IP54 protection but is able to deploy a laser scanner and a tactile probe to enable multi-sensor metrology. An OLED touch-screen display provides the operator with convenient fingertip control, raising inspection productivity by avoiding having to go back and forth between the arm and a computer.

More information www.lkmetrology.com

Sustainability at ASG

ASG Group, the Stockport-based aerospace conglomerate, is making significant strides in decarbonising aerospace manufacturing. With a long-term vision for sustainability, the company is spearheading initiatives across its subsidiaries, including ASG Produmax in Bradford, Bromborough-based ASG AMF and ASG King & Fowler in Liverpool. Group managing director Simon Weston says: “From partnering with local councils to investing in renewable energy and innovative processes, we are dedicated to reducing our environmental impact and leading the industry towards a sustainable future.”

More information www.asg-group.co

Global recertification for composites firm

Velocity Composites has been recertified for the AS9100D and AS9120B quality management standards across all three of its manufacturing sites in the UK and US. Matt Archer, chief commercial and compliance officer at Velocity Composites, says: “The continued certification reinforces our commitment to striving for zero defects and sustaining an exceptional service for our customers.”

Velocity Composites manufactures carbon fibre and ancillary material kits for use in the aerospace and associated industries. The company manages the end-to-end raw material supply chain and reduces the amount of material required by customers, as well as the associated waste.

More information www.velocity-composites.com

Automotive technician scoopsapprentice award

A young apprentice who thrives on ‘proving the doubters wrong’ has been named as the Outstanding Apprentice of the Year for the West Midlands.Magna Cosma Casting’s Marcelina Hrynkiewicz beat more than 120 peers to secure the honour in front of over 400 people at the In-Comm Training Awards in Birmingham.Judges praised her dedication and commitment to achieving personal and technical growth, as well as her natural leadership. Backed by main sponsor the Engineering Technology Group (ETG), the ceremony also sawEpson UK engineer Alexandru Paunescu achieve Most Improved Learner of the Year.

More informationwww.in-comm.co.uk

Makino top management visits NCMT

Shotaro Miyazaki, president of Tokyo-based Makino Milling Machine Co, which manufactures machining centres, spark erosion machines and VIPER grinding centres, visited UK and Ireland sales and service agent NCMT in Coventry recently to participate in their joint 60thanniversary celebrations.More than 100 guests, including representatives from the last three generations of NCMT management, sat down to lunch at NCMT’s showroom and technical centre to commemorate various achievements over the years.

The occasion was especially pertinent because Makino wasGerry Gray’s first technology partner, which led directly to the founding of NCMT by Gray in 1964 to sell Makino products exclusively. When the initial machine was imported, it was the first Japanese-built CNC machine tool installation in the UK.

More information www.ncmt.co.uk