MACHINE CALIBRATIONS / LASER COMPENSATIONS
We provide a comprehensive machine geometry evaluation service by performing full machine error measurements, alignments, calibrations, characterizations, laser compensations, and analyses.  Our approach to machine accuracy correction is to identify the root cause errors, recommend and make adjustments for geometry errors where possible, and use compensation to address residual errors.  We perform full machine measurement (characterizations) and anything in between from machine rail to machine spindle to volumetrics.
 
We use the proper tools that to perform the job correctly and efficiently.  We take pride in having expertise in performing measurement, alignments, and analyses with Renishaw and Automated Precision Inc products, from single axis interferometry to laser trackers. 

 

We combine laser measurements from the API Radian Pro laser tracker and the API XD6 laser.  This enables us to see the whole picture.

• The API Radian Pro Laser tracker allows us to compare geometric relationships like parallelism, squareness, and physical X,Y,Z coordinates of the machine to other critical machine features.  Furthermore, it allows us to check the accuracy of the machine anywhere in the work volume without limitations...it is our most versatile tool

The API XD6 Laser brings exceptional accuracy measurement performance and remains our standard for accuracy calibration.  It also measures Pitch, Roll, Yaw, and Straightness which provides us a complete understanding of the machine axis when performing alignments and compensation. 


















 

MACHINE ALIGNMENTS

An accurate machine begins with a good machine alignment.  This is a process that starts from the ground and ends at the tool tip, and there are no short cuts.  During this alignment process, we make sure the base axis or axes are co-planar, level, and straight.  It is imperative that this structure maintains these characteristics when the rest of the machine traverses across it, so sufficient and equal pre-load must be applied at each leveler or foot pad.  This can be a cumbersome feat, especially when the foundation may be in question or the foundation design incorporates isolation foam beneath and around the machine. 

 

If geometry is not within original specifications, the best approach towards restoring the machine to original performance, is to perform a machine alignment.  This will straighten the aligned machine axis, minimize the angular errors Roll, Pitch, Yaw, and ensure they are square to the other axes.  Oftentimes, after an alignment, the machine accuracy comes within specification without having to perform compensation, especially when the last time the machine as last compensated was during initial machine installation.  This means the alignment performed is representative of the initial installation and that the changes in accuracy were attributed to the changes in the machine geometry.  

 

We have the experience and the tools to achieve the best alignment results, regardless of the machine and foundation design.  We are experts and pride ourselves in tackling these complex issues.