Knowledge Hub
20/02/2024
In Focus: What is CMM Inspection?
In the next instalment of our ‘In Focus’ series, we look at CMM inspection and measurement, exploring its role in the manufacturing process and examining how product designers and manufacturers can benefit from it.
The Role of CMM Inspection in Manufacturing
CMM Inspection is the process of monitoring and measuring the dimensional accuracy of manufactured products.
It is an essential part of the product development and manufacturing process, as it helps to ensure that all components meet their design specifications. Meeting these specifications is crucial to ensure that products fulfil their end application requirements.
What is a CMM and What Does it Do?
CMM stands for Coordinate Measuring Machine. It is a device used in the manufacturing industry to measure the dimensions and geometrical characteristics of a physical object.
The CMM inspection and measurement process involves using a probe attached to a moving arm that measures the object’s surface by making contact with specific points on the object.
These measurement points are captured by the CMM software, which generates a 3D representation of the object’s geometry.
The measurements can be compared to a CAD (Computer-Aided Design) model, allowing for accurate evaluation of dimensions, form, and positional tolerances.
How Does CMM Inspection and Measurement Aid the Manufacturing Process?
CMM inspection and measurement supports the manufacturing and quality engineering processes in several ways:
- Quality Control: CMM inspection ensures that manufactured products meet the desired specifications. By comparing the measured dimensions to the CAD model, any deviations or non-conformities can be identified, allowing for corrective actions to be taken before the product reaches the customer.
- Process Validation: CMM measurement is used to validate the effectiveness of manufacturing processes. By measuring the dimensions of sample parts throughout the production process, engineers can determine if the process is consistent and capable of producing parts within the desired specifications.
- Statistical Analysis: CMM inspection data can be used for statistical analysis to assess the capability of the manufacturing process. Statistical techniques such as Six Sigma can be employed to identify and eliminate variations, leading to increased process stability and reduced defects.
- Reverse Engineering: CMM inspection plays a crucial role in reverse engineering. By measuring the dimensions and geometrical characteristics of existing parts, engineers can create CAD models and identify any design improvements or modifications required for replication or enhancement of the existing product.
- Documentation: CMM inspection provides accurate and traceable measurement data. This data can be used as evidence of compliance with quality standards and customer requirements. It also serves as a record of the product’s as-built condition and can be used for troubleshooting or future reference.
Overall, CMM inspection and measurement help to ensure the quality and accuracy of manufactured products, reducing defects, improving process efficiency, and enhancing customer satisfaction.
How Do Product Developers Benefit from CMM Inspection?
CMM inspection services are required when you need accurate and detailed measurements of a physical object or part. This is particularly important in manufacturing, engineering, and quality control processes where precise measurements are critical.
CMM (Coordinate Measuring Machine) inspection services use advanced technology to capture the coordinates and dimensions of an object, allowing for thorough analysis, comparison with CAD models or specifications, and identification of deviations or defects.
Let’s look at some of the key benefits of CMM inspection and measurement to our customers:
Production optimisation: By regularly inspecting parts during the production process, manufacturers can identify and rectify any issues early on, thereby reducing waste, maintaining consistent quality, and optimising production efficiency.
Reverse engineering: CMM inspection is used to gather accurate measurements of existing objects or parts to create a CAD model or replicate them. This is useful when reproducing obsolete or custom-made parts, or when conducting product improvement or redesign processes.
Verification and validation: CMM inspection can validate the accuracy and integrity of prototypes, new designs, or modifications before mass production. It ensures that all required dimensions and specifications are met, reducing the risk of costly errors or failures.
Root cause analysis: When defects or failures occur, CMM inspection can help identify the root causes by accurately measuring affected parts and comparing them to design specifications. This enables organizations to address the underlying issues and prevent future occurrences.
Industries Which Benefit from CMM Inspection Services
The industries which benefit the most from CMM (Coordinate Measuring Machine) inspection and measurement include:
Automotive Industry: CMM inspection is crucial for measuring and inspecting complex components and ensuring their adherence to quality standards. It is used in both automotive manufacturing and during vehicle maintenance and repair.
Aerospace Industry: CMM machines are extensively used in the aerospace industry to measure and inspect critical components like turbine blades, airframes, and engine parts. The high precision and accuracy of CMM systems ensure compliance with strict quality and safety standards.
Medical Device Industry: CMM services are important in the production of medical devices, where precision and accuracy are critical. It is used to measure and inspect implants, prosthetics, surgical instruments, and other medical equipment to ensure proper fit and functionality.
Defence and Military Industry: CMM inspection is essential in defence and military applications where the accuracy and reliability of components is essential. It is used in the manufacture and maintenance of weapons, vehicles, and surveillance equipment.
Energy Industry: CMM inspection plays a significant role in the energy sector. It is used to measure and inspect critical parts such as pipelines and energy-efficient components.
Overall, any industry that requires precise dimensional measurements and quality assurance can benefit from CMM inspection and measurement. The ability of CMM machines to accurately capture data makes them invaluable in ensuring product quality and compliance with industry standards.
Find Out More
In March 2024, RP Technologies launched a new sub-contract CMM inspection and measurement service.
This service provides metrology, CMM measurement, quality inspection, and quality engineering solutions to customers whose parts have been manufactured by third party suppliers.
More information on this new service can be found on our CMM Inspection page.
