Measuring and Monitoring Machine Tool Geometry
The measurement and monitoring of machine tool geometry is critical to producing accurate parts. The critical geometry includes not just the machine, but also the head and the table.
The machine tool head and machine tool table must be monitored on a regular basis to ensure machine accuracy when making parts.
Simple test programs incorporating the Tetra-Gage Ball Bar System can easily be written in CappsNC to help you better monitor your machine geometry.
- Measure & monitor geometry errors
- Measure table rotation axis directions and center offsets
- Measure head rotation axis directions and pivot point offsets
- Use tooling balls, special gages and masters
- Apply corrections for detected errors
- Make corrections with real-time feedback
- Adapt cutting tool programs to actual machine geometry
Geometry Verification with Tetra-Gage
The Tetra-Gage Ball bar system is a quick and easy way to verify your NC machine geometry.
The Tetra-Gage replicates some of the B-89 ball bar positions without the fuss and difficulty of securely locating a ball bar in the correct position. When the Tetra-Gage is combined with the capabilities of CappsNC, you have a quick and highly effective method of monitoring important machine geometry.
- Very quick verification of machine tool geometry
- Calculates machine linear, squareness errors
- Tracks machine geometry changes due temperature effects
- Detects any sudden changes due impact or overloads
- Can be automated, very quick or automated startup
- Traceable lab calibrated gage
- With CappsNC, creates data base to track historical changes on machine performance
- Real time and automated alarm generation