Coordinate measuring machines, known as CMMs, are an integral part of the manufacturing process in a wide variety of industries. A coordinate-measuring machine offers several advantages to various businesses, especially in manufacturing. This specialized equipment uses coordinate technology to make precise measurements in three dimensions. The accuracy of CMMs makes them ideal in the quality control and assurance phases of industrial manufacturing. Industries requiring high accuracy include electronics manufacturing, aerospace, defense, automotive, and medical equipment manufacturing, among others. A CMM is a significant investment for any business. Once you have bought one for your shop, it’s important to perform preventive maintenance for performance and longevity. As CMM technology has evolved, manufacturers have come to demand CMMs that are accurate, reliable, and fast. They must also be economical and flexible to operate in industrial environments. To do so, CMM manufacturers make careful design decisions and choose innovative materials. They also strive to use new methods as they build the CMMs of today and the future.CMMs are available in a variety of performance levels. With all of these options available on the market, it can be hard and overwhelming to decide on the right CMM to meet the measurement and application requirements of your business. The comprehensive guide below will help you determine which CMM will meet your business requirements and provide optimal performance. Here are five key factors to consider when looking for a CMM:
One of the key criteria to consider when searching for a CMM for your business needs is size. Start by considering the exact size you will need for your CMM. When purchasing the right CMM size, you need to consider the part sizes and number of parts being measured, as well as the manufacturing footprint or space limitations. Think about where your CMM will be located, how much room is available there, and the size of your largest part. Create a sheet of various CMMs’ volumes and dimensions. This will help you compare alternatives and select the best fit for your business.
The other crucial aspect to consider when purchasing a coordinate measuring machine is the environment in which you will be placing your CMM. Will you be placing your CMM on the production floor? In these environments, dust, dirt, and oils can impact measurement results. If you need to place a CMM on the shop floor, it is a good idea to opt for a more rugged system that is highly reliable. Keeping your machine in a clean environment will increase its longevity. Proper cleaning, lubrication, and other maintenance practices keep your machine running smoothly.
Another vital aspect to keep in mind when searching for CMM is its performance. Evaluate the performance of the machine. CMM measurement performance is critical to manufacturing productivity. In the case of CMM performance, one size does not fit all. Assessing performance is truly a combination of the right technologies to best suit your specific application requirements. To improve the performance of your machine, it is also important to take care of it. A clean, well-oiled, and well-maintained machine performs much better.
In conclusion, selecting the right CMM for your application requires several considerations. By considering the above factors, you will make the right decision.