International Metrology Systems adds wider bridge CMM to Merlin series
The Merlin family of CMMs from International Metrology Systems, Inc.(IMS; Livonia, MI) has been expanded with the addition of the 1600 model. This new machine has a 63-in. (1,600 mm) X-axis (bridge) measuring capacity. It's available with 39-in. (1,000 mm) or new 49-in. (1,250 mm) Z-axis measuring ranges. It also can be supplied with 88-in. (2,250 mm) or 118-in. (3,000 mm) granite tables.
Designed and built to stringent and rugged machine tool standards, the Merlin employs technology that's similar to what's used at the foundation of CNC machining centers and lathes. Its simple design offers the required reliability and stability. All air bearing surfaces and measuring scales are covered to extend service life and prevent contamination damage. In addition, an optional thermal compensation module allows the CMM to maintain accuracy, even if the machine encounters the effects of thermal gradients when installed in less-than-perfect conditions.
The CMM can accept a variety of Renishaw's measuring and scanning probes, thanks to its vibration-free drive systems and 32-bit state-of the art PCI controller. In fact, the machine's design flexibility and capabilities will enable it to accommodate more advanced probing and sensor technologies in the future.
Merlin also boasts built-in accuracy and repeatability. Its accuracy is ensured with the use of the company's patented twin measuring scale on the critical table axis. Volumetric accuracy is 8 microns when measuring in touch probe mode.
Additional specs of the 1600 include:
- axis linear traverse speed: 14-in/sec (21 m/min)
- axis resolution: 3.28 ft/sec² (1 m/sec²)
- resolution: 0.000004-in (0.0001 mm)
- maximum table loading: 4,400-lb (2,000 kg)
- power supply: 110 or 240 V, 50/60 Hz
- electrical consumption: 750 W
- air consumption: 5.5-gal (25 liters/min at 5.5 bar)
- work surface: granite with threaded M6 inserts
- tolerable environment: temperature of 10–40°C; humidity between 40 and 80%
The 1600 comes with the firm's Virtual DMIS measuring software, which generates inspection programs from CAD data before actual part manufacturing is performed. Its rapid scanning functionality permits reverse engineering of parts with scanned data accumulated at the rate of 8 points/sec using a standard touch probe with the resulting scanned curve or surface exported in IGES format.
The CMM's "On-Motion" 32-bit PCI continuous motion control is built into the PC, allowing the machine's continuous axis motion to effectively reduce cycle times and machine stress through smoother probe trajectories and high-speed measuring speeds and acceleration rates.
International Metrology Systems, Inc. manufacturers CMM products and accessories using its fully CAD-immersed inspection and programming software.
International Metrology Systems, Inc., 37100 Plymouth Road, Livonia, MI 48150 USA. Tel: 734-591-3800. Fax: 734-591-3850.
Edited by Nancy Katz
Managing Editor, Metrology World.com
E-mail: nkatz@verticalnet.com