Bridge-type coordinate measuring machines for large-scale, heavy-duty measurement

Two new ranges of bridge-type coordinate measuring machine (CMM), MAXIMA and MAXIMA R, have been launched by LK Metrology to meet a rapidly expanding demand for 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 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 unmatched quality and low maintenance.

The MAXIMA series offers the largest measurement volume on the market, from 12 to 72 cubic metres, of any CMM with a granite table. Its high capacity provides outstanding stability, ensuring the machine maintains peak performance even when supporting the heaviest workpieces. Included in the range are 28 models in six table lengths from nominally three up to eight metres and seven variants of bridge cross section up to three metres.

Complementing this offering, the MAXIMA R range features an innovative, twin-rail design engineered for heavyweight workpieces. The structure enables safe and efficient loading of heavy components on the floor and seamless integration with automated transfer systems. A key advantage of these models is that the design eliminates the need for special foundations, while offering exceptional stability, simplified installation and outstanding 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 a powerful LK controller and are available in several configurations: either probe-ready for tactile inspection and laser scanning using a PH10MQ Plus multi-sensor indexing probe head with autojoint, or in ScanTek configuration with a multi-sensor REVO2 head to provide 5-axis scanning, or with an SP80 ultra-accurate fixed scanning head with probe builds up to one metre. The PH10MQ-ready models feature a multiwire cable that supports both SLK and L/LC/XC laser scanner technologies, eliminating the need for a separate probe-ready configuration for each type.