LK Metrology's Altera Scantek 5 CMM Gathers 4,000 Data Points per Sec.

Coupled with Renishaw’s Revo-2 multi-sensor scanning system, LK Metrology’s Altera Scantek 5 coordinate measuring machine (CMM) performs five-axis inspection for dimensional accuracy and surface finish. The CMM’s cross-beam and spindle are made of ceramic, providing a high stiffness-to-weight ratio for responsiveness as well as mechanical and thermal stability for consistent performance in various environments.

The CMM includes Renishaw’s intuitive Modus software for importing data, controlling the CMM, acquiring results, and reporting, including geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T) labeling. The machine’s 500-mm-per-sec. scanning speed boosts measurement throughput, shortens production lead times and prevents a manufacturer’s metrology department from becoming a bottleneck.

Scantek 5 is available with a variety of standard measuring volumes ranging from 800 × 700 × 600 mm to 6,000 × 2,000 × 1,000 mm and larger. Altera M models provide repeatability as low as 1.5 microns, and Altera SL models provide repeatability as low as 0.7 micron. 

The stylus does not leave the surface of the component during scanning, capturing as many as 4,000 points every second. The user can also include rapid, single-touch routines into a measuring cycle. Infinite head positioning increases the effective measuring volume by minimizing the need for head reorientations, while still enabling highly complex measuring. 

Using different tip arrangements and knuckle joints enables the combination of detailed surface finish analysis with other CMM measurements in a single operation. The basic output is Ra, RMS and raw data, with an extensive range of additions available. Even fine bores as small as 5 mm in diameter can be inspected, the company says.

A variety of change racks up to 1 m in length are available for carrying sensors, probes and styli to enable automatic exchange during a measuring sequence.