News: The advantages of using a portable CMM arm in metrology applications

A Coordinate Measuring Machine (CMM) can intricately and accurately collect measurements of the surface geometry of an object. CMMs are sometimes called articulated measuring arms, or metrology arms.

Traditional CMMs are large and cannot be moved, while portable CMMs offer measurement capabilities that are more flexible, convenient and allow for measurements at the job site.

Hand tools such as calipers and micrometers are restricted to taking simple measurements for basic parts, such as distance from point A to B. Portable CMMs, on the other hand, are flexible measurement tools that provide more accurate and detailed information. They make the quality control process much more efficient, while obtaining a greater degree of accuracy.

How does a CMM or metrology arm work?

The CMM uses a probe to measure points on a workpiece. Each time the object is touched with the CMM probe it collects one measurement point or a 3D coordinate. Each point on the workpiece is unique to the machine’s coordinate system.

The data is transferred to CAD software to create a working 3D model of the part.

Through software automation, reports can be produced which show the measured article compared with the CAD file and flag where the part is out of tolerance.

For example, the Tomelleri CMM arms from Leussink work seamlessly with several leading software platforms, including Aberlink and the Geomagic suite of software.

Rather than designing from a blank slate, 3D scanning captures the complex geometry that is hard to measure in any other way, and this information is used as a basis for design.

What do I need to know before buying a portable CMM?

When choosing a CMM for your business you need to consider several important things, including the level of accuracy you require, what you’re measuring, and what you’re trying to achieve.

What level of accuracy do you require?

Portable CMMs vary in their level of accuracy, so it’s important to ascertain what you need. There’s no point in overspending on a piece of equipment if you require a higher level of accuracy.

The Tommeleri Mercury Arm from Leussink is a 1.8m 6-Axis metrology arm and is the most accurate measurement arm currently on the market for its measuring volume.

What are you measuring?

Portable CMMs are classified by working volume, so before making an investment you need to know the size of the object you wish to measure.

That’s where an experienced distributor like Leussink, that has had a long-standing working relationship with one of the world’s leading CMM specialists in Tomelleri can assist. We can advise the best metrology arm for the size and complexity required.

What are you trying to achieve?

Are you planning to use a CMM for inspection or reverse-engineering applications? The answer to this question will determine which CMM will work best for your needs, because each job may have different requirements.

Knowing what you want to do with the data will help determine what metrology arm will be best and what software you need to complement it.

Leussink sole distributor of Tomelleri in Australia and New Zealand

Tomelleri is an Italian based engineering firm with over 30 years’ experience in the research, design and manufacture of articulated measuring arms. In fact, Tomelleri is the original inventor of the articulated measuring arm, holding the original patent for the design. With a focus on continued innovation Tomelleri has refined and expanded its range of metrology arms allowing for an increase in both the number of axes and measuring range.

Leussink is the sole distributor of Tomelleri metrology arms in Australia and New Zealand. We offer a full range of Tomelleri products and accessories, compatible CMM software and Demmeler welding tables to provide a whole system that works together.

At Leussink, we don’t just sell a metrology arm and send our customers on their  way. Our team of experts assist in setting up the arm and software, demonstrate how to use the equipment to take advantage of its best features, and support customers with ongoing training, accessories, calibration services, technical support and more.

Through extensive knowledge and decades of experience, Leussink provides engineering solutions for the Australian market that stand the test of time. We work with our clients to capitalise on efficiencies and productivity, without compromising quality and accuracy.

For more information on our range of portable metrology arms visit our website or contact us on 02 4260 7777 today.