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LASER ALIGNMENT & LASER CALIBRATION
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Machine Tool Geometry Makes A Difference!


A Typical Machine Tool "Tune-Up"

1. Remove way covers.
2. Check machine for "earth" level at the main ways.
3. Check ball screws for ball nut backlash.
4. Check for ball screw end play.
5. Check spindle tram.
6. Check squareness all axes.
7. Check parallelism between axes.
8. Check for loose gibs all axes.
"Earth" level is easily rechecked in the event of any future part discrepancy.

Depending on the machine these measurements can take anywhere from 4-8 hours (sometimes even more). In most cases the operator can point out the main difficulties! Thus expediting the evaluation.

After the preliminary checks, a plan of action can be formulated. This will dictate the amount of time needed for the complete machine tool "Tune-Up". Is the machine level (straight)? Do the gibs need to be adjusted? Is the head square to the table? Do the ballscrews need repair? Etc.

If decided upon the adjustments can be performed during the evaluation, reducing the total amount of hours needed for the "Tune-Up"

Measurement & Machine Technology's technicians are completely capable of all the adjustments needed, and more. We always request the help of the customer, either the operator, a helper/laborer, and/or maintenance individual. This does two things, One (1) educates the employee, and Two (2) expedites the necessary customer support. (Operate the machine, watch the indicator, get materials, and so on) Another benefit is that it gives the company an on the job representative to report on the progress of the "Tune-Up".

Typically, laser measurements and laser calibration of the axes are not done until the complete tune-up is finished and only the last "tweaks" need to be finalized, and then documented.  You don't want to publish any "BAD" data. If the machine geometry is known to be correct and "tight", the laser can be brought out at the very beginning then all "tweaks" can be performed, and documented.
Pitch Error Compensation and Backlash Compensation optimize the positioning accuracy and do not address the geometry requirements of your Machine Tool!

This is a common scenario we have worked with, however not the only one. We approach every machine with a fresh plan.