New CMMs measure large, heavy workpieces

Two new ranges of bridge-type CMMs, the Maxima and Maxima R, are now available from LK Metrology to meet rapidly expanding demand for the precise measurement of large, heavy components, often of significant complexity. The machines are suited to quality control applications across industries such as aerospace, energy, automotive, heavy engineering, power generation, transportation and industrial machinery, where consistent measurement results and long-term stability are paramount.

LK’s advanced ceramic materials for the beam and spindle guideways, which the company says provide near-perfect stiffness-to-weight ratio, have been combined with a robust structure to deliver consistent accuracy and repeatable results in the order of 3 µm. Low gap, high-efficiency air bearings and zero-hysteresis drive systems ensure both quality and low maintenance.

According to LK, the Maxima series offers the largest measurement volume of any CMM with a granite table available the market, from 12 to 72 cubic metres. Its high capacity provides robust stability, ensuring the machine maintains peak performance even when supporting heavy workpieces. Included in the range are 28 models in six table lengths from 3 to 8 m, and seven variants of bridge cross section up to 3 m.

Complementing this offering, the Maxima R range features a twin-rail design engineered for heavy workpieces. The structure enables safe and efficient loading of heavy components and seamless integration with automated transfer systems. As a key advantage, the design eliminates the need for special foundations, while offering stability, simplified installation and cost efficiency. The Maxima R is available in the same range of sizes as the table-type models.

Both new CMM product lines are equipped with an LK controller and come in several configurations: probe-ready for tactile inspection and laser scanning using a PH10MQ Plus multi-sensor indexing probe head with auto-joint; ScanTek configuration with a multi-sensor Revo2 head for five-axis scanning; or an SP80 ultra-accurate fixed scanning head with probe builds up to 1 m. The PH10MQ-ready models feature a multi-wire cable that supports both SLK and L/LC/XC laser scanner technologies, eliminating the need for a separate probe-ready configuration for each type.