Measure and align geometric and rotational axes on machine tools

The XK10 alignment laser system has been developed to measure geometric and rotational errors of machine tools. Used with the XK10 machine tool fixturing kit, it enables faster and easier measurements over traditional methods, such as dial gauges, autocollimators and metrology artefacts. It can be used on linear rails to ensure that they are straight, square, flat, parallel and level, as well as to assess spindle direction and coaxiality of rotary machines.

Measuring geometric and rotational errors during machine build, maintenance and service, enables accurate alignment and adjustment of machine axes to achieve optimum performance. This reduces time during machine assembly processes and on-site service, including regular maintenance or following a collision.

AxiSet™ Check-Up is a cost-effective solution for checking and improving rotary axis performance

AxiSet Check-Up offers an easy and reliable process for analysing the performance of rotary axes and for identifying problems caused by incorrect machine set-up, collisions or wear. In just a few minutes, users of multi-axis machining centres and multi-tasking machines can identify poor machine alignment, geometry and pivot point errors that can cause extended process setting times and non-conforming parts. Where possible, AxiSet Check-Up automatically corrects on-machine pivot point parameters.

The QC20 ballbar system consists of:

• the QC20 ballbar (a very high accuracy, telescoping linear sensor with precision balls at each end)
• two precision magnetic mounts, one attached to the machine table and the other to the machine spindle or spindle housing.

In use the balls of the sensor are kinematically located in the magnetic cups. This arrangement enables the ballbar to measure minute variations in radius as the machine follows a programmed circular path around the mount on the machine table.

The data collected is sent to a PC, where Ballbar 20 software calculates overall measures of positioning accuracy (circularity, circular deviation) in accordance with international standards or in Renishaw's own analysis reports. This report uses a unique mathematical analysis to diagnose many additional individual machine errors from the set of linear readings. Data is displayed graphically as well as in numeric format to aid and support diagnosis.

Improve your business performance with XL-80

Fast, accurate and extremely portable, it is no surprise the XL-80 system is the best selling calibration laser. Together with advanced software solutions and superior performance, the XL-80 can significantly improve your business performance.

Renishaw has been designing, manufacturing and supplying laser systems for over 25 years. The XL-80 builds on that experience to deliver a real advance in system performance and operational benefits for users.

Accuracy and dynamic performance

Linear measurement accuracy is an assured ±0.5 ppm thanks to a precision stabilised laser source and accurate environmental compensation. Readings can be taken at up to 50 kHz, with a maximum linear measurement speed of 4 m/s and a linear resolution of 1 nm, even at maximum speed. All measurement options (not just linear) are based on interferometric measurements, giving confidence in the accuracy of the data recorded.

Unique technology, optical roll measurement and fibre optic launch.

XM-60 is a laser measurement system capable of measuring errors in six degrees of freedom along a linear axis, simultaneously from a single set-up. It provides a powerful diagnostic tool to measure all geometric errors in the axis from a single capture.

For users of volumetric compensation XM-60 provides a quick and accurate method of data population. All measurements are made optically allowing use in any orientation.

XM-600 laser measurement system offers enhanced capability to connect directly with Renishaw's range of UCC CMM controllers.

XM-600 enables faster and easier CMM error mapping

The XM-600 multi-axis calibrator has been designed with additional functionality allowing it to communicate directly with Renishaw's UCC controllers. Using technology developed for the XM-60 multi-axis calibrator, XM-600 simultaneously measures all six degrees of freedom within a single measurement. This provides the ability to easily create an accurate error map for each linear axis of your CMM.

XM-600 maintains the same compatibility with CARTO as XM-60, making it the ideal calibration solution for any manufacturing facility that utilises both machine tools and CMMs.

Rapid calibration using XR20 provides up to ±1 arc second accuracy

The XR20 rotary axis calibrator works in conjunction with XL-80 and XM-60 laser systems. It consists of an integrated angular retroreflector mounted on a precision servo-controlled axis. The angular position of the axis, and the optics relative to the main body housing, is controlled by a very high accuracy encoder system with the scale directly machined on the main bearing.

Features and benefits

• Flexible and light weight – designed for single handed easy fitment to a wide variety of rotary tables, lathes and other rotary axes
• High accuracy - ±1 arc second using XL-80 or ±1.2 arc second using XM-60. (See error budget and uncertainty calculation below for further details).
• Rapid testing - quick test setup and fast data capture
• Wireless operation – powered by rechargeable batteries and integrated wireless connection using Bluetooth® communication
• Built-in alignment targets – minimises measurement errors during setup
• Auto calibration – pre-measurement calibration cycle compensates for angular alignment errors
• Pre-test cycles – automatic direction and feedrate detection
• Feedrate - speeds of up to 10 rpm