Doubles effective measuring range at a given tolerance, compared to typical CMMs
(Mitutoyo: Aurora, IL) -- The new CRYSTA-Apex S coordinate measuring machine (CMM) from Mitutoyo brings new levels of performance and economy to the 1.7 μm class of CNC coordinate measuring machines (CMMs).
With a maximum error of MPEE = (1.7 + 3L/1000) μm, the CRYSTA-Apex S more than doubles the effective measuring range at a given measurement tolerance as compared to typical CMMs in its class. Additionally, the CRYSTA-Apex S drive features high-speed (max 519 mm/s) and high acceleration (max 2,309 mm/s2). These advances result in higher throughput for greater productivity and lower total owning and operating costs.
The CRYSTA-Apex S uses the new UC-400 controller to manage digital servo-system control loops for position, speed, and current. This makes it easy to implement various types of control algorithms. Additionally, the digital servo system has a wide dynamic range and is highly resistant to drift over time.
Extreme rigidity helps the CRYSTA-Apex S maintain accuracy. The Y-axis guide rail is integrated into one side of the granite surface plate. Precision air bearings located on the bottom, front, rear, and upper surfaces of the X-axis slider minimize vibration and ensure stability even during high-speed, high-acceleration operation.
Accuracy is further enhanced by an advanced temperature compensation system. This consists of a thermometer unit that measures the temperatures from thermal sensors located on the scale units of the CMM main unit and from a set of workpiece thermal sensors. Temperature data are transferred to the UC-400 machine controller for thermal compensation. For proper workpiece compensation, the thermal expansion coefficient of the workpiece material is entered by the user; since the material of scale units of the CMM is constant, this expansion coefficient is permanently stored in the temperature unit.
The CRYSTA-Apex S supports a wide range of probes that offer increased capabilities, including the MPP-310Q scanning probe that collects cloud point data at speeds of up to 120 mm/s. Other probes suited for screw-depth measurement, ultra-small diameter measurement, and noncontact measurement are also supported.
Available software options enable the CRYSTA-Apex S to tackle a wide variety of measurement applications. Software packages include GEOPAK, a high-functionality, general-purpose measurement program that is at the heart of Mitutoyo controlled open system for modular operation support (MCOSMOS) software. MCOSMOS supports virtually every CAD format while providing routines for in-line measurement, data feedback, and process management.
Additional software supported by the CMM include: CAT1000S for freeform surface evaluation; CAT1000P, an offline teaching program; SCANPAK, for contour measurement; and a range of programs supporting laser and vision probes. CRYSTA-Apex S provides USB communications for connectivity. Additionally, CRYSTA-Apex S supports MeasurLink STATMeasure Plus, Mitutoyo’s proprietary statistical-processing and process-control program.
MeasurLink STATMeasure Plus performs statistical analysis and provides real-time display of measurement results for statistical process control (SPC) applications. The program can also be linked to a higher-level network environment for enterprisewide functionality.
