Helmel’s Microgage: Superior Value in 3D Accuracy

Helmel Engineering Products, Inc., a 34 year old manufacturer of Coordinate Measuring Machines in Niagara Falls, New York, has introduced a new system that offers extraordinary value in the high accuracy CMM market. Called Microgage, it is a small format desktop 3 dimensional Direct Computer Controlled instrument delivering B89 volumetric accuracy of 5.8 um, with repeatability of 0.7 micrometers, and scale resolution of 0.1 micrometers.

The Microgage design is a fixed bridge type with moving stage for the Y axis. The XYZ travel range is 225mm x 150mm x 125mm. The system features precision linear bearings in the X and Y axes and instrument roller bearings for the Z axis. Accuracy is intrinsic; error mapping and volumetric error compensation are not used.

Design emphasis is on powerful bearing ratios, thermal stability, and long term reliability.

The Microgage is capable of dimensional inspection and reverse engineering of critical manufactured parts. The system utilizes Helmel’s GEOMET CMM Metrology Software and motion control, providing extremely easy operator control over geometric measurement, analysis, and programming. It can be operated in joystick mode or in fully automatic mode, and is suited to R&D, short run, or production and process control. Renishaw’s CMM probe systems and automatic stylus changing are supported.