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Simply stated, Metrology is the science of measurement and weights.
Dimensional metrology is the measurement of the physical size of objects -
length, width, height, depth, diameter - in order to determine if those
dimensions meet critical design specifications. Furthermore, and much more
importantly, Coordinate Measuring Machines (CMM) not only measure and record
the dimensions of objects and the various features of which they are composed
(such as holes, edges, projections and surfaces) they also measure and record
the 3-dimensional spatial relationship of these elements to each
other.
A-WALL CMM rooms are
necessary for a number of different reasons. Temperature stability within the
room is often needed to control the expansion and contraction of both the CMM
and part during measurement. Often, parts are stored in the CMM room prior to
measurement to stabilize them at room temperature. Also, this equipment is a
significant, capital investment for most companies. Placing the CMM in a room
with its peripheral computer equipment protects it from unauthorized access,
contamination or damage from material handling nearby. Another primary reason
A-WALL customers enclose their CMM is to display it to visitors and customers
as a major investment in quality control. A CMM enclosed in a climate
controlled AWALL building makes a striking presentation in an industrial
setting.
CMM's vary greatly in physical size. A-WALL
buildings that enclose CMM's will many times require higher than normal
ceilings to accommodate the Z Axis. However, in some cases, the building can be
designed with two roof/ceiling heights to keep the cubic area of the room to a
minimum. The less area that needs to be climate controlled, the less HVAC
equipment will cost. Also, with smaller size rooms, HVAC operational expenses
cost less.
Gauge rooms and metrology labs are
similar to CMM rooms in environmental needs but typically can be created using
7'-6" to 8'-6" ceilings. Many times, a metrology lab will include a CMM within
it, but a smaller model than the one pictured above.
Component Systems, Inc. has been creating
temperature controlled CMM and Metrology rooms for nearly two decades. Custom
room designs to accommodate large parts or crane access to the CMM are not a
problem. Temperature control specifications of ±1° F. are easily
achieved using self-contained, precision HVAC units. Similar gradient
temperature control specifications within the room can also be achieved using
custom ceiling plenums, properly designed return air systems and more
sophisticated controls. Positive room pressure and filtration can be added to
isolate the CMM from airborne particulate contamination or
corrosives.
Component Systems, Inc. welcomes the
opportunity to work with you on your CMM projects. Chances are good that your
project is very similar to one done previously for another client.
| Brown & Sharpe is a pioneer and
leader in the field of Coordinate Measuring Machines. Their Internet web site
is an excellent source of information about this technology (http://www.brownandsharpe.com) |
| Quality Online is a web site for
engineers and managers responsible for test, inspection, measurement,
evaluation, and documentation with additional information about CMM's (http://qualitymag.com/). |
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