The Equator gauging system from Renishaw is to be controlled with Wenzel’s WM Quartis metrology software for programming and evaluation purposes. The move comes as part of a co-operation deal between the two companies and will be incorporated into the Wenzel product portfolio.

“Many thousand Equator test units are already in use throughout the world, enabling high repeatability and thermally robust process monitoring on the shop floor,” says Rainer Lotz, vice president EMEA of Renishaw. “A direct connection to the Wenzel software is an import extension of our solutions for users within the shop-floor area.”
Bastian Luithardt, Renishaw product manager, adds: “Workpiece data recorded by Equator is used for automatically updating the tool offset of the respective machine tool. The Equator concept, which enables flexible and newly programmable measurements, is optimal for use in an automated environment. A stable manufacturing process and continuous documentation therefore results for every workpiece.”
At the same time, Wenzel is launching another compact portal measurement machine for direct production use. The SF55 CMM, like the bigger SF87, offers high travel speeds and acceleration, while its corrosion-free guideways are made of high-precision, hand-finished granite. Indeed, the guideways are completely covered and protected against contamination, while the controller and PC are integrated in the machine for a minimal footprint.
The SF55 CMM has passive vibration damping and can be equipped with active vibration isolation. Due to the good accessibility and ‘Wenzel automation interface’, the shop-floor measurement system is suitable for automation and integration into the production line.
“After the success of our SF87 CMM, the more compact SF55 is the logical response to the requirements of the shop floor,” says Dr Heike Wenzel, managing director of the Wenzel Group.
For further information www.wenzel-group.com