Your stamping press may be to blame. When your manufacturing environment has both stamping presses and coordinate measuring machines present it is important to consider how vibration may affect the capabilities of your equipment. Stamping presses produce vibration that can negatively impact the accuracy of your CMM. This is especially true when you are scanning rather than probing.
When scanning with a CMM, the probe runs along the surface of the part in order to measure and detect any deformities within it. This is a precise process, so when there is too much vibration within the environment the CMM will not be able to pass the calibration process that is necessary to ensure accurate measurements. As new CMMs become more accurate, they are also more prone to issues caused by vibration. Inability to obtain precise measurements can hinder the manufacturing process and lower efficiency.
When you go to take a sip of your morning coffee do you see ripples in your cup? That is a telltale sign of vibration, but vibration may not always be that easy to identify. If you are experiencing issues with your CMM, seeking a vibration site survey is the ideal next step. During this process we record measurements of floor vibration and mechanical shocks using a high precision dynamic signal analyzer in conjunction with three accelerometers to determine the frequency of vibration. Based on those measurements, we can determine if vibration is the cause of equipment issues. Vibration site surveys can also be utilized as a preventive measure for those looking to install new equipment in a manufacturing environment.
Relocating the measuring machine to a quieter area within the plant can prevent vibration from affecting the CMM, but this change in workflow leads to a reduction in productivity. BiAir® air spring isolators are an optimal vibration isolation solution that allow you to maintain productivity while reducing the effects of vibration.
BiAir® air springs can be integrated into the CMM or the CMM can be installed on top of a platform that serves as a floating floor. The amount of vibration that the stamping press is releasing will determine exactly which Biair® air spring is necessary for your machine. Standard air springs come at a lower cost, but if you need a higher level of vibration isolation, more efficient air springs will be necessary. The frequency of vibration measured during the vibration site survey will identify your ideal air spring.
If you are experiencing issues with your coordinate measuring machine in an environment where you are stamping or forging metal, let us know. Our vibration site survey can assist you in determining how to return your machine to proper functioning so you get your production line running again.
