New Advances in CNC Machining Metrology

One of the most challenging tasks for operators in the CNC machining process is measuring and checking dimensions of the parts they cut. In order to consistently meet dimensional requirements (and maintain productivity), evaluation of quality control must be done quickly and accurately. The most common procedure for inspecting the machined part is removing it from the machine and taking measurements next to the machine, or bringing it to a quality control room where it can be checked for dimensions and surface finish.

Battling Those “Boat Anchors”

In my long career as a prototype machinist, many times I faced the risk of making a scrap part because I couldn’t check all the critical dimensions while the part was still in the fixture. Sometimes when a part needed to be re-cut it was necessary to recreate the workholding conditions that existed before removing it. This involved a lengthy realignment and pickup, as well as difficulties in repeating the same clamping forces. There were instances when I couldn’t put my part back in the fixture at all. If the part didn’t conform to specs it became a “boat anchor.”

Metrology with No Strings Attached

Today’s technology has revolutionized CNC machining in many areas, and one of these is quality control and metrology. Now we can check parts without removing them from the machine. We can capture data and make offset adjustments with one push of a button. All that can be done without any strings attached…and that means wires.

Okuma’s open architecture THINC®-OSP CNC control makes it possible to interface wirelessly with many devices. Several Partners in THINC offer tools for the problems described above. Today you can take advantage of the following solutions for measuring and checking parts in the CNC machining process:

• Removable workholding that enables repositioning the part in the CNC machine – within microns
• Scanners and measuring devices that are portable
• Probes and tool setters
• In-process and post-process part gaging
• Tool calibration and tool breakage detection
• Wireless communication between inspection devices and the controller, including ability to automatically update tool offsets – thus eliminating human error when manually entering the numbers
• Workholding systems for metrology that hold parts in an optimal position for inspection without distortion to the workpiece
• Saving and processing dimensional data for creation of statistical charts
• Monitoring and compensating for machine and environment temperature changes

Putting New Metrology Advances to Work

New advances in metrology solve many of the daily CNC machining challenges of our customers: consistently making good parts, increasing productivity gains, maximizing performance, delivering quality, and ensuring the safety (and sanity!) of the operator.

We’re passionate about making CNC machining profitable, paying attention to details, exploring innovative design and creating solutions that solve customer problems. Contact us, or your local distributor, and put that energy to work for you.

Chime in with your comments or questions about metrology below. We want to hear about your challenges!

Mark Hamielec is Applications Engineer, Okuma America Corporation.