Manufacturing companies rely on precision when developing new parts and products. Using CMMs is one way to increase accuracy, but custom-designed CMM fixture plates can also help reduce mistakes, increase production efficiency, and improve repeatability.
Keep reading to learn more what CMMs are, what types of CMM workholding solutions are available to manufacturers, and how Rayco Fixtures can help you.
What Is CMM?
Commonly called a CMM, a Coordinate Measuring Machine, accurately measures physical objects. Although today’s CMMs take advantage of next-gen technology, the first CMM was developed by Scotland’s Ferranti Company during the 1950s.
The Ferranti CMM design was a dual-axis model that conducted 3D tracing. Its precise measurements helped develop and advance military products. Three-axis units arrived in the manufacturing landscape during the 1960s.
Now, more than 60 years later, CMMs are still employed to ensure quality control and precision.
Common Types of CMMs
Some of the most common types of CMM uses in manufacturing today include:
- Bridge: Ranked among the most accurate of CMMs, this three-axis machine uses a sensor that monitors a probe’s position at all times. Additionally, there are two types of bridge CMMs: moveable-table and moveable-bridge.
- Gantry: Similar to the Bridge, this much larger CMM eliminates the need for heavy lifting and moving of large parts.
- Cantilever: Differing from the Bridge and larger Gantry designs, this type of CMM is generally attached to a base. Its design makes it easier for technicians to load and inspect parts, and is often used when measuring small components.
- Plate-Mounted & Runway-Mounted Horizontal Arms: As the name suggests, probes are mounted horizontally instead of vertically. They are most commonly used to measure long or thin components, or for parts that have complicated geometries.
- Portable Measuring Arm: These mobile CMMs can be used to take precision measurements in real-time. Designed with six-to seven-axis points, they improve productivity because the unit can be moved to where it is needed.
- Optical: These non-contact units use optical triangulation to gather 3D measurements. Their free-arm system increases speed and agility while ensuring accuracy.
What Is a CMM Fixture Plate?
A fixed plate, or modular fixture plate, gives workshops and light manufacturing operations the ability to secure components and materials in place. Standoffs and tension spring arms can be hand tightened into the fixture plate to hold objects in place. Alternatively, CMM fixture plates can be fixture plates can be custom-built, based on the part or component you are measuring.
Rayco’s Workholding Solutions
Rayco Fixtures is proud to offer a wide array of custom CMM workholding solutions for clients in many industries. We understand that every business has unique needs and requirements, which is why we work closely with you to ensure you get the right product.
Our workingholding solutions include:
- Fixture Plates
- Fixture Kits
- Clamping & Holding Kits
We design every product to be versatile to any application and part. Additionally, when you work with us, you can have peace of mind knowing that all of our products are made in-house in the United States, and we back every CMM workholding product with a 30-day money-back guarantee. Our top priority is ensuring that you’re happy with our work.
Have Questions? Call Rayco Fixtures Today!
If your business relies on CMMs, you need a custom-built fixture plate. At Rayco Fixtures, we design our CMM workholding solutions to help you improve overall accuracy and reduce waste. We’ve been a trusted U.S. manufacturer for over four decades, and take pride in our long list of satisfied clients. If you have questions about our CMM fixture plates, contact us today.