Back in the proverbial day we primarily used probes, often on stand-alone CMMs or other measuring devices, for post-process parts inspection. Then probes moved inside the CNC machine tools to allow in-process gauging. Today, along with in-process inspection, probes set up jobs, gather data to detect worn, broken or missing tools and much more. Plus, software programs use these data to enable the machine tool to automatically make tooling adjustments on the fly, or send trouble alerts to the machine operator.
All of this can reduce the time an operator must spend addressing these problems, keeps the machining process running without interruption, and can even eliminate costly turret crashes. Part inspection probes can also perform final quality control checks inside the machine tool once it completes its cycle, again saving labor costs and production time, not to mention scrap and rework.
According to industry leader Renishaw plc, in-machine probes are used by manufacturers in a multitude of ways, including:
- Part identification
- Intelligent program selection
- Determining part presence
- Tool identification
- Machine capability
- Clearance checking
- Cutting path optimization
- Adaptive machining
- Cutter parameter update
- Dynamic re-machining
- Thermal correction
- Tool condition monitoring
- Process reporting
Please contact your Pittsburgh Haas Factory Outlet to learn more. Call (724) 778-3220, email: tom.jonas@haasfactoryoutlet.com, or visit www.hfopittsburgh.com.