SOLUTION
“ As we ’ re a very small business looking to reduce costs , we often buy machines second hand ,” continued Hammond . “ When we purchased our latest machining centre , it came with a Renishaw probe attached , so we began to use it for part set-up to see if we could improve accuracy and productivity .”
Hammond Engineering ’ s machining centre was fitted with an OMP40-2 probe . This ultra-compact 3D touch-trigger probe with optical signal transmission is primarily used for workpiece set-up and inspection in machining centres . It offers users up to a 90 per cent reduction in set-up time , as well as a reduction in scrap and fixture costs .
RESULTS
Now that I can see how user-friendly and accurate the OMP40-2 is , it would be hard to convince me to use anything else .
Since using the OMP40-2 , Hammond Engineering has experienced faster setup times . For example , before using the equipment , aligning a vice would typically take around five minutes to complete — with the OMP40-2 this task takes less than a minute . The benefits will add up over time — if the team uses the probe to help align one vice a day , the company will save 17 hours a year . Using the probe also reduces the chances of human error impacting production because it can calculate angles without the need for human intervention .
“ I can ’ t believe it took me this long to realise how valuable probing is in my work environment ,” said Hammond . “ Now that I can see how user-friendly and accurate the OMP40-2 is , it would be hard to convince me to use anything else .”
In the future , Hammond Engineering plans to use the OMP40-2 for in-process measurement on repeat parts to ensure correct positioning and alignment . The company also plans to use tool breakage detection to improve process reliability and confidence .
For more information visit , www . renishaw . com / hammond
Issue 53 PECM 87