Renishaw PH20 High-Accuracy Touch-Trigger Probe System for Coordinate Measuring Machines
| Brand | Renishaw |
|---|---|
| Origin | United Kingdom |
| Manufacturer Type | Authorized Distributor |
| Origin Category | Imported |
| Model | PH20 |
| Pricing | Available Upon Request |
Overview
The Renishaw PH20 is a high-accuracy, motorized, multi-axis touch-trigger probe system engineered for integration with coordinate measuring machines (CMMs) and machine tool in-process inspection platforms. It operates on the principle of kinematic sensing—utilizing a patented five-axis articulation mechanism that enables rapid, precise point acquisition without requiring reorientation of the CMM’s mechanical structure. Unlike traditional indexing probe heads, the PH20 achieves true 5-axis simultaneous motion, reducing measurement cycle times by up to 40% while maintaining traceable metrological performance compliant with ISO 10360-2 and VDI/VDE 2617 standards. Its design targets applications demanding sub-micron repeatability in geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T), particularly for complex freeform surfaces, turbine blades, aerospace structural components, and precision-machined molds.
Key Features
- Five-axis motorized articulation with ±115° pitch and continuous 360° rotation—enabling full part coverage from a single setup
- Integrated strain-gauge-based trigger mechanism delivering ≤0.3 µm probing repeatability (MPEP) under controlled environmental conditions (20 ±1 °C, 40–60% RH)
- Modular interface compatible with Renishaw’s MIH, MIP, and TP20 series probe bodies, supporting interchangeable stylus configurations up to 500 mm in length
- Real-time signal conditioning and digital filtering to suppress mechanical vibration artifacts during high-speed scanning
- IP64-rated housing with thermal drift compensation algorithm minimizing coefficient-of-expansion errors across operational temperature ranges (10–30 °C)
- Native support for I++ DME communication protocol, ensuring interoperability with major CMM controller platforms including Zeiss CALYPSO, Hexagon PC-DMIS, and Mitutoyo MCOSMOS
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The PH20 probe system accommodates a broad spectrum of sample geometries—from small medical implants (2 m span)—through configurable stylus assemblies (ceramic, ruby, silicon nitride, or diamond-tipped). All probe modules comply with ISO 9001:2015 certified manufacturing processes and are supplied with UKAS-accredited calibration certificates traceable to NPL (National Physical Laboratory, UK). The system meets essential requirements of the EU Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC and supports audit-ready documentation for GLP/GMP-regulated environments. When deployed in pharmaceutical or implant manufacturing settings, it facilitates compliance with ISO 13485 and FDA 21 CFR Part 11 through optional secure data logging and electronic signature modules.
Software & Data Management
Renishaw’s MODUS™ metrology software provides native driver-level integration for the PH20, enabling automated probe qualification, dynamic error mapping, and real-time uncertainty estimation per ISO/IEC 17025 guidelines. Measurement data is exported in standardized formats—including DMIS 4.0, STEP AP242, and QIF (Quality Information Framework)—ensuring seamless transfer to PLM systems such as Siemens Teamcenter or PTC Windchill. Audit trails record all probe configuration changes, calibration events, and operator interventions with time-stamped, immutable logs. Optional cloud synchronization allows centralized fleet monitoring across multi-site operations while preserving data sovereignty under GDPR-compliant infrastructure.
Applications
- Aerospace: Blade root profile verification, wing spar flatness assessment, and composite layup alignment validation
- Automotive: Powertrain component cylindricity analysis, body-in-white gap-and-flush evaluation, and EV battery tray GD&T verification
- Medical Devices: Orthopedic implant surface texture correlation, dental CAD/CAM crown fit validation, and minimally invasive surgical tool dimensional release testing
- Energy: Turbine disc concentricity checks, nuclear fuel assembly grid plate squareness measurement, and wind turbine gearbox housing bore alignment
- Micro-manufacturing: MEMS device feature height mapping, semiconductor wafer chuck flatness certification, and optical lens mount concentricity verification
FAQ
What is the maximum stylus length supported by the PH20 probe head?
Standard configurations support stylus lengths up to 500 mm; extended-reach variants (PH20-ER) accommodate up to 800 mm with compensated dynamic error modeling.
Does the PH20 require external air supply or coolant integration?
No—fully self-contained electromechanical actuation eliminates dependency on pneumatic or hydraulic utilities.
Can the PH20 be retrofitted onto legacy CMM platforms?
Yes, provided the host machine supports I++ DME v2.0 or Renishaw’s UCC controller architecture; compatibility verification requires firmware revision assessment and mechanical interface audit.
How frequently must the PH20 undergo recalibration?
Annual UKAS-traceable recalibration is recommended; however, in-line verification using Renishaw’s QC20-W ballbar or AxiSet Check-Up system permits daily stability monitoring per ISO 10360-5 Annex B.
Is the PH20 suitable for use in cleanroom environments?
Yes—available with optional electrostatic-dissipative (ESD) housing and ISO Class 5-compatible stylus materials for semiconductor and biotech applications.
