OT: Probe make recommendations

[Boris]

Hi all

Well it seems years of whining and bitching to the owner about buying a spindle touch probe have paid off(either that or hes buying me one to shut me up )*

However, we had a machine dealer in today to quote on some other stuff until I managed to corner him and get the touch probe added to the discussion.
He listed the various manufacturers renishaw etc , but a thought struck me (and it hurt )

Which has been the best brand to buy in terms of reliability, accuracy, repeatability and surviving the occasional use by the apprentice.

Oh and must interface with heidenhain TNC530i controls

Boris

And I know I've wheedled another M&H tool probe out of him

[PROBE]

I suggest Renishaw OMP60 with OMI-2 interface. All methods of switching the probe On and Off (optical, automatic, spin and shank switch), robust, 1 micron repeatability. Very easy Interface connection to Heidenhain - just connect the wires to 5 pins of DB15 male connector and connect to X12 on the control pannel.

[Tonytn36]

I'm quite liking the Blum Probe I have on the little Brother machine. The folks in another department using Renishaw like the Blum also, and it was $1000 cheaper to boot.

[Joe788]

I've had great luck with Renishaw. Haven't used anybody else though.

[psychomill]

I like them all.... I am partial to Renishaw however from the many years and 100s of units I've used. But the Blum and M&H both make good units as well.

Being that Renishaw calls the UK home, would that make Renishaw a better choice? I don't know. Support for all three is quite good around my area. That's a tough call IMO. I usually go with the shop 'form factor' rule here. What you already have and go with it. If it's a 'first time'... good luck. (guess I wasn't much help here)

[GM]

Originally Posted by Boris

Hi all

Oh and must interface with heidenhain TNC530i controls

Why not go with a Heidenhain probe? I've used a Heidenhain TS640 touch probe daily for the last 4 years with no problems whatsoever. The software, if not already in your control, should be a simple upgrade.
They make a couple smaller units now, even one that does not require any battery's (uses the air blast to turn a turbine and self charge).

Check out the link below;

http://www.heidenhain.com/fileadmin/...208_951-28.pdf


GM

[buckeye]

Originally Posted by GM

Why not go with a Heidenhain probe? I've used a Heidenhain TS640 touch probe daily for the last 4 years with no problems whatsoever. The software, if not already in your control, should be a simple upgrade.
They make a couple smaller units now, even one that does not require any battery's (uses the air blast to turn a turbine and self charge).

Check out the link below;

http://www.heidenhain.com/fileadmin/...208_951-28.pdf


GM

Agreed, This is a really nice probe. I like the fact that you know it will work. Sometimes machines can be fussy to accept probed data. Personally I have always used Renneshaw Probes on a Haas and a Toyoda. Very good repeatibility, and very easy to use. I hope you plan to get a tool-setter too!!

[psychomill]

Why not go with a Heidenhain probe?

Nice one GM....