Hexagon Metrology has revealed that MKS Telvac has invested in a Global Performance co-ordinate measuring machine (CMM) to complement its range of test and inspection equipment.

MKS Telvac specialises in the production of high-quality machined components and complex electromechanical assemblies to ultra-high vacuum standards for the scientific, semiconductor and medical industries.

The company’s resources comprise advanced machine shop facilities including a range of modern CNC machines that are programmed centrally using CAD/CAM systems; clean-room and assembly facilities; and a fully equipped quality control department.

MKS Telvac recently invested in a high-precision Global Performance CMM from Hexagon Metrology to keep pace with demand for its output.

Mathew Ensor, machine shop manager at MKS Telvac, said: ‘In order to help satisfy the growing demand for our output, we recently purchased a high-throughput, five-axis machining centre.

‘As part of the same investment programme, to enable our inspection department to keep pace with increasing levels of production, we considered the various advantages of several high-accuracy CNC CMMs.

‘Having had in-depth demonstrations of a number of alternative CMMs, we purchased a DEA Global Performance from Hexagon UK,’ he added.

Several factors influenced MKS Telvac’s purchasing decision.

The machine’s use of PC-DMIS Pro software was one factor, as the company said PC-DMIS is easy to use, has minimised the potential for errors and has ensured operators have experienced a reduced learning curve.

As the Global Performance is available in a range of sizes, the company was able to order a machine that matches the dimensions of its current components and assemblies with scope for larger parts, should they be specified by customers.

Hexagon claims that the cost-effective DEA Global range brings affordability to multi-sensor technology and that the machines are ideal for users that need to undertake a variety of metrology operations on a single CMM.

Based on a modular design, Global Performance models are available in a range of sizes, from X-axis of 500-1200mm, Y-axis of 500-3000mm, Z-axis of 500-1000mm, and can be configured according to each customer’s measurement needs.

The machine can be equipped with touch-trigger probes, for efficient single-point measurements on prismatic elements, and analogue scanning probes that support high-accuracy scanning operations on complex contoured parts.

PC-DMIS Pro software provides the user with an intuitive graphical user interface, including a suite of ‘wizards’ to help operators quickly learn and manipulate key inspection functions.

The metrology software’s features include a full programming environment with high-level programming functions, customisable menus and quick start routines for probe qualifications, part alignments and hyper reporting functions.

For traceability, PC-DMIS Pro has a suite of adaptable reporting and advanced hyper reporting tools.

Ensor said: ‘Now installed in our air-conditioned inspection department, our Global Performance CMM has allowed us to further develop our already advanced inspection function.

‘We have received excellent levels of support, in terms of off-line programming and instant access to help on the phone from Hexagon.

‘The machine has removed any potential for part-inspection bottlenecks as its CNC capability enables us to place a part on the machine’s granite bed and instigate an automatic part programme.

‘As the Global Performance is able to operate both quickly and accurately, it is able to give our operators almost instant size verification of first-offs and also complete long and complex measuring routines unattended.

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