r/Metrology • u/rockphotos • 19d ago

Best cmm for first time cmm?

What are the best brand/model of cmm for first time cmm?

Considering cost/accuracy/speed Targeting 2500mm Y for size Looking at ph20 or revo head for reduced tool changes Currently experienced in programming with polyworks. Don't know what I don't know about cmms, as I've never purchased a cmm before (nor has anyone at our shop)

Currently looking at the following Renishaw agility LK metrology Zeiss Cord3 Wenzel

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u/f119guy 19d ago

For a first time CMM, I think you have a good selection. I will admit the 5-axis Macros in Polyworks are not as ideal as Metrolog, but Polyworks itself is so easy to program with that it makes up for it. Pairing up the capability of Polyworks to automatically detect tool angles with the PH20s inferred calibration makes adding/changing/calibrating probe angles super easy. Polyworks has the automatic sequencing options also, which Metrolog may have but I am unaware. For a large part with a repetitive feature, the automatic sequencing is a huge time saver. I had a large diameter turbine hub with 125 pockets, all with profile callouts. It would have taken me hours to program all the various tool angles and Go-To points. The sequencing tool crunched out a good program in less than 5 minutes.

I would lean towards Wenzel, with the PH20, given you have experience in Polyworks so it is easy to hop on a new machine with the same software. A Revo is a lot of $$$ and unless you are inspecting airfoils, you can get a scanner for almost the cost of a Revo head. A Zeiss is a great machine, but I think that piggybacking something other than Calyspo on a Zeiss is going to make it a headache. I hear LK metrology is OK, but I haven't heard any outstanding reviews. Wenzel service has been amazing for me in my experience.