Hexagon Metrology Leitz PMM-C Series Ultra-High-Precision Coordinate Measuring Machine

Overview

The Hexagon Metrology Leitz PMM-C Series is an ultra-high-precision coordinate measuring machine engineered for metrological traceability in demanding industrial and calibration environments. Built upon a rigid closed-frame architecture combining granite bases, cast-iron columns, and granite crossbeams, the system delivers long-term mechanical stability and volumetric accuracy traceable to international standards (ISO 10360-2, ISO 15530-3). Its measurement principle relies on high-resolution linear encoders (sub-micrometer resolution), thermally compensated servo-driven axes with preloaded air bearings, and kinematically optimized motion control to minimize Abbe error, cosine error, and dynamic deflection across the full measurement volume. Designed for applications requiring sub-micron repeatability and certified volumetric accuracy—such as master gauge calibration, aerospace component verification, and precision optics metrology—the PMM-C meets stringent requirements defined in ISO/IEC 17025-accredited laboratories and supports compliance with ASME B89.4.1, VDI/VDE 2617, and NIST-traceable calibration protocols.

Key Features

• Closed-frame structural design with granite base, cast-iron vertical column, and granite bridge ensures thermal and mechanical stability over extended operational cycles.
• Center-driven moving table with preloaded air bearings enables low-friction, torsion-free motion and minimizes Abbe error during probing and scanning.
• Servo-motor-driven recirculating ball screws deliver rapid acceleration, consistent high-speed positioning (up to 600 mm/s), and sub-micron path fidelity—even over short travel segments.
• Sweet Spot functionality enhances volumetric accuracy within localized regions of the measurement envelope, enabling tighter tolerance verification for small features or miniature components (e.g., smartphone lens mounts, micro-gears).
• SENMATION intelligent sensor auto-changer supports seamless integration of tactile probes, optical scanners, and vision sensors—enabling multi-sensor metrology within a single inspection program without manual intervention.
• Dual 2D laser safety scanners provide Category 3 / PL e (ISO 13857) compliant safeguarding, automatically halting motion upon intrusion detection during CNC-controlled high-speed scanning.
• XT (Extended Temperature) option permits stable operation in non-climate-controlled environments (15–25 °C), supporting shop-floor metrology without dedicated metrology labs.
• Message Light human-machine interface provides real-time status feedback—including thermal drift alerts, air bearing pressure, and probe calibration status—to optimize scheduling and resource allocation.
• 4-axis continuous联动 scanning turntable option enables synchronized rotary axis motion during high-density point cloud acquisition, significantly reducing cycle time for complex freeform surfaces (e.g., turbine blades, impellers).
• ECO Mode+ reduces compressed air consumption by up to 70% during idle periods via automated air cutoff to air bearings, lowering total cost of ownership while maintaining readiness.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The PMM-C accommodates workpieces ranging from miniature components (e.g., 2-mm-diameter optical elements) to large-scale assemblies (up to 2400 × 1600 × 1000 mm). Its modular design supports ISO 10360-compliant probing systems, including PH10M/Mi, TP20, and optical line scanners (e.g., Leitz LSP-X1), ensuring compatibility with GD&T evaluation per ASME Y14.5 and ISO 1101. All configurations comply with electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) directives (2014/30/EU), machinery safety standards (2006/42/EC), and environmental regulations (RoHS 2011/65/EU). The system supports GLP/GMP-aligned audit trails when integrated with PC-DMIS Enterprise or QUINDOS software, fulfilling FDA 21 CFR Part 11 requirements for electronic records and signatures in regulated industries.

Software & Data Management

Leitz PMM-C systems are natively compatible with Hexagon’s PC-DMIS and QUINDOS metrology software platforms. These support full GD&T analysis, statistical process control (SPC) reporting, and automated report generation compliant with ISO 9001 documentation requirements. Calibration data management follows ISO 17025 traceability chains, with digital certificates stored in encrypted databases featuring version control and user-access logging. Optional integration with Hexagon SmartLine allows remote diagnostics, predictive maintenance alerts, and secure cloud-based data sharing—while preserving data sovereignty through on-premise deployment options.

Applications

The PMM-C serves as a primary standard in national metrology institutes and accredited calibration labs for gauge block calibration, ring gauge verification, and reference artifact certification. In manufacturing, it performs first-article inspection of turbine disks, gear trains, and medical implants; verifies geometric fidelity of injection molds and die-cast tooling; and supports reverse engineering of legacy parts where CAD models are unavailable. Its Sweet Spot and Accuracy+ configurations are routinely deployed in semiconductor packaging metrology, MEMS device validation, and high-precision bearing assembly verification—where feature tolerances fall below ±0.5 µm.

FAQ

What is the volumetric accuracy specification for the PMM-C series?

Volumetric accuracy is specified per ISO 10360-2 and varies by model size and configuration—ranging from ≤0.7 µm + L/600 µm (for 07.07.05) to ≤1.2 µm + L/400 µm (for 24.16.10) under controlled lab conditions (20 ± 0.5 °C). Accuracy+ configurations improve this by up to 30% in localized Sweet Spot zones.

Can the PMM-C operate outside temperature-controlled metrology labs?

Yes—the optional XT (Extended Temperature) package enables reliable operation between 15–25 °C, making it suitable for near-line quality control in production environments without costly climate infrastructure.

Is the system compatible with FDA-regulated quality systems?

When configured with PC-DMIS Enterprise and enabled audit trail modules, the system supports 21 CFR Part 11 compliance—including electronic signatures, change history, and secure user authentication.

How does the Sweet Spot functionality improve measurement capability?

Sweet Spot dynamically recalibrates local error maps within user-defined sub-volumes (e.g., 100 × 100 × 50 mm), achieving enhanced volumetric uncertainty—typically 20–40% better than full-volume specifications—for critical small features.

What sensor technologies can be integrated via the SENMATION system?

SENMATION supports automatic switching among tactile probes (PH10M, TP20), optical line scanners (LSP-X1), chromatic confocal sensors, and structured-light scanners—enabling hybrid measurement strategies within a single inspection routine.