“How do I probe this?” is a question frequently asked by CMM operators and machinists when faced with unusual workpiece features or properties. Often, a traditional ruby ball, carbide stem, and threaded base stylus won’t work. The solution is a special stylus. This article is an overview of some special styli that make up an important part of a CMM or machine tool toolbox.
One would think that when you get your thread ring gages calibrated and there are no red flags raised by the reported data you’re good to go. Unfortunately, this sea of tranquility can end up drowning you if you have misinterpreted the reports—something that happens when disputes arise.
Most manufacturers are just now embarking on their exploration of Industry 4.0 and figuring out how to use automation, data exchange, cloud computing, and Internet of Things (IoT) technologies to create smart factories.
It is generally agreed that engineering is about tradeoffs, and that has always been particularly true in regard to measurement machines. There are several types of measurement, and higher performance in one area generally meant less capability, or none, in other areas.
When it comes time to choose the proper ultrasonic thickness gage for your needs, many factors must be considered. Many of the important points are obvious such as budget and your basic application.
Accuracy and repeatability is the lifeblood of all CMMs. If they aren’t accurate, there’s no point in having them. However, the degree of accuracy required is dependent on the particular application. For manufacturing gas turbines and aircraft engines, a very high degree of accuracy is often required.
Sometimes all the usual steps taken to resolve measurement disputes still don’t point to a culprit you can deal with. But one certainty always remains: Your customer insists their gages are right so the problem must be due to your gages.
A friend of mine likes to quip that someday computers will make all our lives easier. He’s kidding (I think), but it seems to be a fact of modern life that every time we open our phones, tablets, or computers, or even check our watches, there are upgrades waiting to be installed for the apps we have, and new and improved apps on offer to replace those.