LK Metrology has launched the ALTERA SF series, offering a range of eight coordinate measuring machines (CMMs) specifically engineered for the demanding conditions of the shop floor. These bridge-type CMMs are designed to deliver lab-grade accuracy while standing up to a demanding manufacturing environment. The ALTERA SF eliminates the need for a separate environmentally-controlled lab and allows for immediate measurement right off the production line without compromising accuracy and improving throughput. Its large measuring volume, air bearings, multi-sensor capabilities, and other advanced technologies make it the ideal shop floor CMM for manufacturers in industries like energy, aerospace and automotive.

Large Measuring Volume for Real World Production

This CMM series consists of eight bridge-type models, specifically designed to accommodate large measuring volumes. Options range from 1,000 × 1,000 × 800 mm up to 4,000 × 1,500 × 1,500 mm, meeting the needs of manufacturers in heavy industries. Measuring substantial components directly on the production line eliminates logistical complexities and the strain of transporting large workpieces to a separate, climate controlled metrology lab. This readily available and reliable measurement capability makes your workflow more efficient by providing immediate feedback and increased throughput.

The Advantage of Air Bearings

Other CMM shop floor manufacturers utilize mechanical bearings for their motion systems. Because mechanical bearings allow for debris buildup, the design compromises accuracy and measurement capacity. For these reasons, the ALTERA SF utilizes air bearings with a special enclosure design to protect them from harsh environments. The result is the best of both worlds – the speed, accuracy, and capacity of air bearings with the benefits of low maintenance and reliability.

Made for Durability and Precision

Another key element of the ALTERA SF are the glass ceramic optical scales. Unlike other scale materials, glass ceramic optical scales are highly resistant to contamination from common shop floor elements like dust, coolant mist, and metal particles, which are completely sealed out by the enclosed guideway system. These scales have zero thermal expansion, which is ideal in environments like a factory floor where temperatures can fluctuate and materials naturally expand and contract. Glass ceramic optical scales ensure positional accuracy remains consistent regardless of temperature shifts. This helps reduce measurement errors, cuts down on scrapped material and increases overall accuracy of the system over its lifespan.

Vibration Dampening

Vibration is a constant challenge in shop floor environments that can severely impact measurement integrity. The ALTERA SF incorporates an advanced vibration dampening platform to counteract these disturbances. The granite table base uses its mass and stability to help absorb and dissipate vibrations. Its elastomer anti-vibration mounts are strategically placed to isolate the CMM from floor vibrations and prevent them from affecting measurement accuracy. In areas with extreme vibration levels, an active intelligent antivibration system that uses magnetic field sensors to automatically adjust the table’s height and level is available. The ALTERA SF is also built with air flow in mind under the skirt to keep hot air from building up and heating the granite table and keeps the frame more thermally stable.

Optimized for Efficiency and Adaptability

The ALTERA SF is designed not only for precision and durability but also for seamless integration into modern manufacturing workflows. It offers several key features that enhance its operational efficiency and versatility on the shop floor.

• • EcoAir Technology: This system automatically cuts off the flow of compressed air to the air bearings after a period of inactivity. This reduces air consumption by up to 95% when the machine is idle, lending to energy and cost savings.
  • Customizable Software Solutions: Manufacturers can tailor measurement routines, data analysis, and reporting to their unique workflow requirements with seamless integration into existing procedures. The SF comes with the LK NMC300 multipurpose controller and the CAMIO software suite, making them ready to integrate into in-line or off-line automation for large-volume production environments.
  • Multi-sensor Capability: With the option to use either 3 axis or 5 axis probe heads, the SF can adapt to a variety of measurement challenges. These include the PH10MQ 3 axis probe head which offers simplicity and numerous upgrade paths and the REVO 5 axis head for the ultimate in throughput and the ability to tackle the most complex geometries. This compatibility allows seamless transition between discrete point collection and continuous high speed scanning, enabling a single machine to handle diverse inspection requirements, maximize utility and provide comprehensive data.

Heavy Industry Applications

The combination of lab-grade accuracy, large measuring volumes, and industrial resilience makes the ALTERA SF the best choice for industries where precision, scale and efficiency are most important. For instance, in aerospace, the ALTERA SF enables high-volume inspection for large structural components like wing panels directly on the assembly floor. The energy industry benefits from precise measurement of large turbine pieces and critical drilling equipment parts, where accuracy impacts safety and performance.

Final Thoughts

The LK Metrology ALTERA SF series represents the evolution in industrial metrology. Leveraging advanced technology, scaling up the CMM to meet large manufacturing needs and providing accurate measurements conveniently on the shop floor, help the ALTERA SF bridge the gap between a controlled metrology lab and the realities of a production environment. It delivers precise, dependable measurements required for critical applications while also offering durability and large measuring volumes. For manufacturers wanting to improve quality control, streamline production workflows, and achieve new levels of efficiency right on the shop floor, the ALTERA SF is the solution. A Cross Precision Measurement expert can help you determine which CMM is right for your application and manufacturing needs.