User's Manual
MH3D
©2004 TESA Switzerland All Rights Reserved.
Page 3-21
Good Measurement Techniques
The following are good techniques to use when operating the MH3D:
• Operators should qualify their own tips because of differences in style.
• Verify probe offsets after qualification.
• Clamp the part so that it doesn't move when measuring.
• Hold the Z-rail on the pads and not on the bearing surface to prevent heat
transfer to the machine.
• Be sure the part, the qual sphere and the stylus are clean.
• Recertify the qual sphere for size and form at least once a year. If the qual
sphere is dropped, it must be recertified.
• If the granite is used as a datum it should be cleaned, periodically certified
for flatness, and realigned with the machine's X and Y rail plane surface.
• Be sure the direction vector is correct when contouring with a hard probe
or when checking a complex surface contour.
• Use a perpendicular approach vector whenever possible. Make your
measurements perpendicular to a surface when contouring with a Touch
Trigger Probe.
• The machine should be level to the floor and the granite level to the
machine without anything on the granite.
• When checking close tolerances, the form of the ball probe should be
checked.
• When qualifying with extensions that could affect accuracy, check with a
ring gage. Use for interim gage checks or probing setup.
• When qualifying tips, check form error. If not within 4µm (.000015"),
requalify.
• Don't use the machine or granite plate to rest on.
• Practice your measurement techniques. You need constant practice to get
good results.
• Locate the reference sphere and allow it to stabilize before measuring.
• Check air pressure. An axis drag can affect machine performance.