It offers an over 50 per cent increase in inspection reach compared with the original head, improving access to features deep inside parts and in hard-to-access areas. The new PH20 PLUS system builds on the proven measurement capabilities of the PH20, enabling high-speed touch-trigger measurement across a wider range of applications.
Launched in 2010, the PH20 touch-trigger system utilises the head motion technology developed for the multi-award winning REVO® 5-axis measurement system, which minimises the dynamic errors of a CMM at higher measurement speeds. It has been widely adopted by manufacturers globally due to the substantial increases it has achieved in CMM throughput. These gains are supported by its innovative 5-axis infinite positioning, inferred calibration routines that reduce machine downtime, and ability to automatically change TP20 probe modules.
"With PH20 PLUS, we’ve focused on extending capability, which we believe will appeal to both existing PH20 customers and those with measurement requirements which could previously not be met by the existing head," said Nathan Fielder, Product Manager at Renishaw. "Existing PH20 users will be able to adopt the new head and reuse existing part programmes and measurement strategies, while benefiting from increased reach and greater flexibility."
The redesigned A-axis features a new kinematic mount that supports a wider range of probe module extensions. This enables the PH20 PLUS head to use longer and heavier probe configurations giving users improved access to features deep inside parts and in hard-to-access areas. The result is an additional 107 mm of reach, significantly increasing the accessible measurement volume without compromising usability.
With a 50 mm stylus, the PH20 PLUS head offers a maximum working length of up to 300 mm from the centre of the A-axis, an increase of over 50 per cent compared with the current PH20 system. Based on the industry standard TP20 probe system, the new PE20 modules feature a larger kinematic mount for direct interface with the PH20 PLUS head and are available in a range of lengths to suit different applications.
The system maintains compatibility with the existing range of TP20 modules (excluding the extended force module), ensuring straightforward upgrades. Existing TP20 probe modules can be used via the PB20 adaptor, which supports the continued use of established stylus configurations and existing part programmes, helping to minimise transition effort and protect existing tooling investment.
The PH20 PLUS system can also be configured to match the effective working length of existing PH20 system installations, simplifying upgrade and replacement decisions.
A new modular rack system has been developed to support automatic and repeatable probe module changing with the PH20 PLUS head. The system mounts to an MRS2 rail, which can be installed on the CMM bed or directly onto the machine frame. It includes configurable change ports for TP20 modules, temperature-controlled ports for PE20 modules and connector modules to distribute electrical power across the rack. In addition, the powered PCR20 rack provides a standalone solution capable of holding multiple probe modules and accessories.
The PH20 PLUS system is fully compatible with Renishaw’s UCC controller and integrates in the same way as the original PH20 system, providing a direct, drop in replacement for existing CMM installations. For further information on the PH20 PLUS system visit http://www.renishaw.com/ph20plus
