How to choose a high-precision rotary probe
Release date:
2021-11-06
Probes are used for measurement, and different probes have distinct characteristics and application-specific functions. So, let’s explore how to select a high-precision rotary probe!
Probes are used for measurement, and different types of rotary probes have distinct characteristics and application-specific functions. So, let’s explore how to select a high-precision rotary probe!
The following are three principles to follow when selecting a high-precision rotary probe for testing.
1. The length of the rotating probe detector should be as short as possible.
In general, long probes are prone to bending and significant deformation, which can often compromise measurement accuracy. To avoid this and enhance precision, it is advisable to select shorter probes. But does “the shorter, the better” always hold true? That depends on the specific machine‑tool configuration.
II. The rotating probe has few connection points.
When in use, the rotating probe is connected to an extension rod; however, bending and deformation are likely to occur at the joint. Like with long probes, bending and deformation at the connection point can compromise the probe’s accuracy and, in some cases, prevent proper measurements, so it is advisable to avoid joints that are prone to such issues.
3. The rotating probe test sphere should be as large as possible.
On the other hand, the larger the light‑pen ball, the greater the clearance between the probe and the target; a larger clearance helps reduce the likelihood of unintended triggering caused by vibrations. Furthermore, when the ball’s diameter is sufficiently large, it can mitigate the impact of surface roughness or unpolished areas on measurement accuracy.
When selecting a rotary probe, users should carefully consider its contact characteristics and whether it can maintain a specified level of accuracy upon engagement. Today, probes come in a wide variety of types, featuring diverse shapes and materials. This article outlines the key specifications of probes to help you choose the most suitable one for your specific inspection tasks.
The scanning probe is a component of the coordinate measuring machine that makes direct contact with the workpiece surface, causing the probe’s mechanical assembly to displace and generate a signal that triggers the acquisition of measurement data. Typically, the probe consists of a stylus and a ruby ball. Depending on the characteristics being measured, one can determine the appropriate probe type and size. During measurement, it is essential to optimize both the probe’s stiffness and the geometry of the measurement target.
Keep the rotating probe as short as possible; the more it bends or tilts, the lower its accuracy will be. Therefore, use the shortest probe feasible during measurement. The connection points are small, and each time you attach the probe to an extension rod, you introduce additional potential bending and deformation points. Consequently, during the APP process, minimize the number of connections whenever possible.
The simply designed ruby probe is well suited for a wide range of measurement applications. The probe stem can be made from various materials, and the straightforward probe system incorporates an industrial-grade ruby sphere with excellent sphericity; the stem material is customizable. Employing a slightly larger ruby sphere helps mitigate the influence of surface roughness on the component under test.
How to select the probe ball size and the probe’s EWL is determined by the dimensions of the feature being measured. Choosing the largest possible ruby probe ball and the shortest possible stem maximizes the ball‑to‑stem spacing, thereby providing a more effective EWL. This contrasts with other types of probes—such as those that allow for elastic deformation—which exhibit very low triggering forces, enabling the use of long probe balls paired with extended stems without incurring significant accuracy losses.
The above outlines how to select a high-precision rotary probe. With this information in mind, you can generally choose a probe that offers relatively high accuracy. The higher the precision, the more idealized the measurement values will be, and such idealized readings help achieve the desired results in your work.
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