In today’s modern manufacturing environment, precision measurement is critical. Key components of a finished product may be produced in different facilities across the country or even the world, and in order to be interchangeable, they must be manufactured within extremely tight tolerances.
This is where metrology–the study of measurement–and the highly advanced tools used for quality control to achieve precise measurement are so vital. Common metrology tools used in the manufacturing process, to name but a few, include micrometers, optical comparators, vernier calipers and coordinate measuring machines.
What is a Coordinate Measuring Machine (CMM)?
In simplest terms, a CMM is an advanced measurement tool that utilizes a probe in conjunction with a computer. When the CMM probe touches the production part to be analyzed, it emits an electrical signal that then collects various specific points from the part’s entire geometry, no matter how complex the part. This 3D information is then collected and analyzed by sophisticated computer software to ensure a part meets the most rigorous quality control standards.
There are several types of CMMs and software packages tailored to meet the specific tasks of varying industries, such as medical, aerospace, defense, oil and gas, and automotive. Each of these industries (and more) has come to rely heavily on CMMs for accuracy of measurement and quality control, and there are a number of suitable suppliers that can quickly and reliably provide replacement parts and accessories for them.
How are CMMs used in Aerospace Manufacturing?
The aerospace industry has a wide variety of parts with complex surfaces that are not easily measured with standard measuring tools. With its sophisticated 3D image processing capabilities, however, CMM technology handles that problem easily. Aerospace also has a number of parts that are highly sensitive and fragile and which could be vulnerable to a poor or incorrectly handled CMM probe. Fortunately, CMM technology has advanced to offer non-contact scanning capabilities that alleviate this concern. Such scanners enable aerospace manufacturing facilities to still obtain accurate metrology without causing damage to parts.
How are CMMs used in Shipbuilding?
Like the aerospace industry, shipbuilding requires measuring complex shapes like propellers. There is a need also to obtain odd measurements such as flatness, thickness, and parallelism. As a single tool, CMM technology eliminates the need for an array of tools to make these various measurements. Portable options also make it easy and efficient to move around a ship to make the multiple inspections required.
In addition, what makes shipbuilding different from other industries is that the building process occurs outside where elements like temperature, humidity, and a ship’s vibrations can have an impact on precision measurements. Fortunately, specific CMM technologies provide software that factors in these external variables so measurements are not compromised.
How are CMMs used in Medical Manufacturing?
In the medical industry, special attention is given to the surface finish of its tools and devices. Like the aerospace industry, it also relies on no-touch technology to assist in the manufacturing of medical devices like hip and knee implants, stents, and surgical tools. The industry also uses CMM technology for reverse engineering. Such technology allows technicians to identify the placement of a component in a larger device and measure it accurately so that it can be reproduced over and over in large batches. Not only does CMM technology go a long way in ensuring the manufacture of precision quality devices and controlling costs, but it also helps eliminate human error.
Published by: Khy Talara
