Measuring cnc machine

Types of measuring cnc machines

A measuring CNC machine is a powerful tool that can digitally measure and analyze an object's physical and geometrical characteristics, using a computer control system to link the measuring probe to the machine. A measuring CNC machine may be categorized into different types based on its measuring methods and how they work.

• CNC Laser Measuring Machine:

  A laser measuring machine is a device that uses laser technology to take measurements. It can measure distance, length, height, depth, volume, and other related parameters without contact. The principle of laser measuring machines is based on the time-of-flight measurement, triangulation, or phase shift. A CNC laser measuring machine can provide quick and precise measurements with high accuracy, which is suitable for parts with complex contours, internal features, or deep holes. In addition, a CNC laser machine requires no contact or part modification to measure, and it can measure anything from submillimeter accuracy to tight tolerance micro-precision.

• CNC Optical Measuring Machine:

  A CNC optical measuring machine, also called computerized numerically controlled optical machine, is an optical measuring device that provides non-contact digital measurement by using the human-operated microscope and crosshair. An optical machine can measure linear and angular dimensions internally and externally, and the higher the magnification power, the smaller the resolution it can measure. Optical measuring machines may feature projections, video measuring machines, or shadow graphs. With the use of a programmable control unit, an optical measuring machine offers the advantage of making accurate and rapid measurements in an automated manner, thus ensuring higher reproducibility and efficiency.

• CNC Coordinate Measuring Machine:

  A CNC coordinate measuring machine (CMM) is a device that can measure an object's physical feature and utilize a computer control system to observe the probe moving. CMM can directly measure the XYZ coordinates of an object and create a digital representation or map of the object's profile used for quality control, reverse engineering, and product development.

  CNC machines are available in different types based on their measurement method. The touch probe is one of the most prevalent coordinate measuring machines. It uses a probe that touches the object's surface to record the measurement. The probe can be moved along different axes to measure various points, which helps to determine an object's dimensions and shape. Also, the probe's points are digitized and then analyzed by the computer software.

  Another type of CNC measuring machine is the optical. Optical coordinate measuring machines use non-contact measurement. They use light and imaging technology to measure an object's dimensions and geometry with high resolution and accuracy. Optical machines can offer fast and precise measurements for small parts, which are difficult to accessibility with conventional measuring tools.

Specifications and Maintenance

Specifications for a measuring CNC machine may vary depending on the machine's ability regarding length, weight, and dimensions. Machine specifics will usually highlight the length and width of the maximum area that can be measured, as well as the overall machine height. Weight capacity will also be noted.

Some measuring machines will indicate which area within a floor space or workshop is taken up by the machine by giving the overall machine dimensions. An average measuring machine with a horizontal arm may measure 1.8 m x 1.6 m x 1.5 m (length x width x height). However, this could vary from as little as around 1.4 m to as much as 4.5 m depending on the type of measuring machine it is, including whether it has a bridge, horizontal arm, laser, or any other mechanism.

Industrial measuring devices, such as CMM devices, may also use different technologies for measurement, such as laser triangulation and laser Doppler. With laser triangulation, a laser beam strikes the target at a certain angle so that an angle is formed between the laser beam and the laser sensor. The distance to the object is then calculated based on the angle formed by the laser beam and the sensor.

The device's weight-bearing capacity will also be important for knowing the specified maximum weight that the device can measure. Specifications may indicate the maximum weight for which the machine and its components were designed, such as 2000 kg or 4000 lbs. Specifications may also give details about the accuracy of measurements in the machine or system (e.g., +/- 0.01 mm), its resolution, data interface, and temperature operating range, amongst other things.

Machines will also require appropriate maintenance so that they can measure pieces accurately without impairing their functionality. An immediate benefit of maintenance is that it extends the life of the machine. It is always better to consult with the manufacturer's manual for the guidance of the specific machine as it's a procedure that may vary depending on the type and brand of the measuring machine. Generally, the machine should be routinely inspected for any wear and tear. Parts that are commonly indicated for lubrication should be lubricated. Calibrations are critical for accurate measurements, and these should be done periodically according to company guidelines.

Scenarios of measuring CNC machines

The measuring CNC machines have many applications in various industries. Some of them include the following.

• Automotive industry: The most common application of a measuring CNC machine is in the automotive industry. Most vehicles are built with parts that require high-accuracy measurements and equal parts. As a result, they are efficient and suitable for the automotive industry.
• Aerospace industry: The aerospace industry utilizes measuring CNC machines to manufacture and inspect components of aircraft and spacecraft. These include turbine blades, structural panels, and airframes. Such components require every detail to be precise. Therefore, only machines with high measurement capabilities should be used in their production.
• Medical field: In the medical device manufacturing industry, a measuring CNC machine is used to create devices like implants, prosthetics, and surgical instruments. These devices often have to be customized to fit various patient needs. They also have to meet regulatory standards. As a result, devices manufactured with a measuring CNC machine will have the required quality control and precision.
• Mold and die industry: When creating molds and dies for components like injection molding and stamping, manufacturers need to have high levels of accuracy and precision during machining. This is to ensure proper fit and function of the manufactured parts. A measuring CNC machine provides this kind of precision and accuracy.
• Jewelry and watch industry: Most jewelry pieces and watches are created using intricate designs and small components. Manufacturers in the jewelry and watch industries rely on a measuring CNC machine to create these pieces with high precision. The machines also help ensure repeatability when creating these items.
• Model-making and prototyping: A measuring CNC machine can be used to create models and prototypes for various applications. It can create a scaled representation of features in industries such as architecture, automotive, and product design. In this case, the machine helps in testing designs before the final product is manufactured.
• Textile industry: A measuring CNC machine can be used to create patterns, templates, and customized designs for textiles. This includes fabrics, garments, and upholstery materials. Precision and automation offered by the CNC machine enhance efficiency. It also improves quality control and consistency when manufacturing textile products.

How to choose a measuring CNC machine

Here are some key factors business buyers can use to determine their ideal measuring CNC machine:

• Application needs:

  First, business buyers can delineate their application needs by considering the types of parts they need to measure. Also, the desired accuracy, volume, and dimensions of the PVT are other factors to ponder when defining application needs. Consequently, this will help buyers determine the ideal of machine measurement.

• Type of measurement:

  Business buyers can select a measuring CNC machine based on the types of measurements they need to perform. This includes Linear measurements, angular measurements, and surface measurements (such as roughness or roundness).

• Accuracy and precision:

  When choosing a measuring CNC machine, buyers should consider the accuracy and precision of the probe. This information is usually represented in the system's error model or uncertainty budget.

• Software and data analysis:

  A software program commonly powers the measuring CNC machine to control the process and analyze the results. Hence, business buyers can consider data analysis and visualization options. Also, buyers should consider the ease of use of the software and its capacity for integration with other systems.

• Integration capabilities:

  Business buyers can choose a measuring CNC machine whose integration capabilities meet their production system needs. This capability aids seamless data sharing and workflow automation.

Measuring cnc machine Q&A

Q1. What type of software does a CNC measuring machine use?

A1. Most measuring CNC machines are controlled by proprietary software. A few machines can be controlled by common software used in the industry like MasterCam, Rhino, Autodesk's AutoCAD, SolidWorks, and DesignFusion.

Q2. Can users measure physical objects without using a CNC machine?

A2. Yes, it is possible to measure physical objects directly but the method is not ideal. It involves using calipers and gauges to estimate dimensions and manual measurement techniques. Users can also use optical and digital measuring devices like laser scanners, coordinate measuring machines, and non-contact optical systems.

Q3. What types of materials does a CNC measuring machine work with?

A3. An industrial-grade measuring machine works with different types of materials. These include metal materials such as aluminum, titanium, brass, copper, steel, and alloys. It can also work with wood like hardwoods, softwoods, engineered wood, plywood, and foam materials like polyethylene foam or PVC foam. Finally, it can work with composite materials like carbon fiber composite, fiberglass composite, ceramic, and plastics like PVC, ABS, and polycarbonate.

Q4. Is it easy to measure an object with a CNC machine?

A4. Yes, a CNC measuring machine simplifies the process of measurement. An integrated software helps the operator to easily set up the object and define the measuring profile. Typically the machine uses touch probes or laser scanners to automatically capture the object's geometry and its features. The software will then compare the measurements against the predefined CAD models or tolerances. After that, the measurement report will be generated automatically.