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Blue Laser Technology: Renishaw Expands Range and Improves
Repeatability of On-Machine Tool
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CNC WEST December 2021/January 2022
Building on the success of the original NC4+ Blue, the latest evolution of the non-contact tool setter features an ultra-compact design and is now available in four siz- es, with operating gaps ranging from 55 mm to 240 mm. Measurement repeatability has also been improved across the range, now down to +/- 0.5 micron on smaller separa- tions.
Improved machining accuracy
Featuring what Renishaw says is industry-first, blue laser technology and improved optics, Renishaw’s NC4+ Blue systems deliver significant improvements in tool measurement accuracy, ensuring components can be ma- chined more accurately and efficiently.
According to Renishaw, compared to red laser sourc- es found in conventional non-contact tool setters, blue laser technology has a shorter wavelength resulting in op- timized laser beam geometry. This enables the measure- ment of very small tools, whilst minimizing tool-to-tool measurement errors – a critical consideration when ma- chining with a wide range of cutting tools.
Rapid, robust and reliable measurement
NC4+ Blue systems use Renishaw’s non-contact tool setting software package, which continues to evolve to ensure rapid, robust and reliable measurement even in wet conditions. Auto-optimization technology within the software automatically adjusts the movement of the tool in and out of the beam to minimize any wasted movement and therefore cycle time. While features such as a dual measurement mode, where the tool is measured as it exits
the laser beam and an advanced tool cleaning option, help ensure the tool is free from debris and coolant during mea- surement. Further enhancements to tool run-out and profile measurement cycles deliver increased functionality and reli- ability to advanced users.
Superior optical protection
The interior of a machining center is a hostile environ- ment with coolant drips, swarf chips and dust commonplace. Coolant mist can saturate the air and quickly coat any ex- posed optical surfaces. Whatever their optical design, laser tool setting systems need clean optics and an unobstructed beam path in order to function.
The NC4+ Blue uses MicroHoleTM and PassiveSealTM optical protection technologies, enabling fast and reliable tool measurement, even in wet conditions.
MicroHole technology ensures the optics are protected from contamination during measurement by delivering a continuous stream of compressed air through a very small and precise laser-drilled hole in the transmitter and receiver heads. The PassiveSeal system provides an additional layer of protection, automatically shielding the optics from con- tamination in the event of air supply failure. It uses a simple pneumatic installation that minimizes any need for mainte- nance.
Simplified programming and reporting –
Industry 4.0 ready
NC4+ Blue support is now embedded into Renishaw’s extensive range of graphical user interfaces, including on- machine and mobile apps such as Renishaw Set and Inspect and GoProbe. These consistent, easy-to-use programming platforms are perfect for users who are new to probing or have little machine code knowledge, whilst still offering op- erational benefits to more experienced users.
Renishaw technologies provide the data that enables in- telligent decision-making for Industry 4.0. On-machine tool measurement allows manufacturers to automate and optimise their processes and minimise quality problems and CNC ma- chine stoppages. With the latest version of Renishaw’s on- machine Reporter app, users can now view historical tool data captured by the NC4+ Blue and stream the measure- ments in real-time. Results can also be exported via CSV file or PDF report and either stored for traceability or imported into in-house quality analysis software.