Trimos ALESTA Series Multi-Function Length Measuring Machine
| Brand | Trimos |
|---|---|
| Origin | Switzerland |
| Model | ALESTA |
| Measurement Range | 0.1–1015 mm |
| Resolution | 1 µm |
| Operating Environment | 22 °C ± 0.5 °C |
| Measurement Principle | Precision Mechanical Interpolation with Linear Encoder-Based Displacement Sensing |
Overview
The Trimos ALESTA Series Multi-Function Length Measuring Machine is a high-accuracy, mechanically driven length calibration system engineered for metrological traceability in both laboratory and production-floor environments. Unlike optical interferometric or laser-based systems, the ALESTA employs a robust mechanical interpolation architecture anchored by a high-stability granite base, precision-ground guideways, and a calibrated linear encoder with 1 µm resolution. Its measurement principle relies on controlled axial displacement of a motorized carriage coupled with tactile probing—enabling direct comparison measurements against master artifacts (e.g., gauge blocks, ring gauges) while maintaining full compliance with ISO/IEC 17025 requirements for calibration laboratories. Designed for primary and secondary calibration tasks, the ALESTA serves as a reference-grade platform for verifying dimensional stability, linearity, and repeatability of handheld and benchtop length-measuring instruments—including internal micrometers, bore gauges, external micrometers, dial indicators, and linear position sensors.
Key Features
- Granite base structure with thermal mass stabilization, minimizing short-term drift under controlled ambient conditions (22 °C ± 0.5 °C)
- Motorized, programmable carriage with bidirectional positioning accuracy better than ±0.5 µm over full travel (0.1–1015 mm)
- Integrated tactile probe system with interchangeable contact tips (spherical, flat, conical) for internal/external geometry assessment
- CNC-controlled motion sequencing enabling automated multi-point calibration routines (e.g., stepwise verification across 10–20 positions)
- Real-time digital readout synchronized with encoder feedback, supporting both absolute and differential measurement modes
- Modular design permitting integration into temperature-controlled metrology rooms or shop-floor enclosures with vibration isolation
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The ALESTA accommodates a broad spectrum of dimensional standards and working instruments: gauge blocks (Grade K and Grade 0), ring and plug gauges (ISO 1938), internal micrometers (up to 500 mm span), external micrometers (0–25 mm to 100–125 mm ranges), dial/test indicators (0.01 mm graduation), and analog/digital linear variable differential transformers (LVDTs). All measurement procedures adhere to ISO 3650 (gauge block calibration), ISO 7983 (bore gauge verification), and VDI/VDE 2617 Part 4 (coordinate measuring machine acceptance testing). The system supports documented traceability to national metrology institutes (e.g., METAS, PTB, NIST) via certified reference artifacts and uncertainty budgets compliant with GUM (JCGM 100:2008).
Software & Data Management
The ALESTA operates with Trimos’ proprietary MetroSoft™ CNC programming environment, which provides scriptable measurement sequences, customizable dwell times per position, and user-defined probe approach/retract velocities. Calibration reports are generated in PDF and CSV formats, including raw encoder counts, temperature-compensated values, expanded uncertainties (k = 2), and operator metadata. Audit trails comply with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 requirements through electronic signatures, user access controls, and immutable log files. Data export interfaces support integration with LIMS platforms (e.g., LabWare, STARLIMS) and enterprise quality management systems (QMS) under ISO 9001 and IATF 16949 frameworks.
Applications
- On-site calibration of workshop metrology tools without removal from production lines
- Verification of linearity and hysteresis in analog and digital linear displacement transducers
- Zero-setting and bias correction of internal diameter measuring systems prior to high-volume cylinder bore inspection
- Validation of CMM touch-probe performance using calibrated step gauges
- Supporting GLP/GMP-compliant instrument qualification (IQ/OQ/PQ) protocols in regulated manufacturing
- Teaching and demonstration of metrological principles in technical training centers and vocational academies
FAQ
What environmental conditions are mandatory for ALESTA operation?
The system requires a thermally stable environment maintained at 22 °C ± 0.5 °C with humidity between 40–60 % RH; air turbulence and floor vibrations must be minimized per ISO 5501.
Can the ALESTA calibrate instruments with non-standard contact geometries?
Yes—interchangeable probe tips and programmable approach vectors allow adaptation to tapered bores, grooved surfaces, and offset datum features.
Is uncertainty evaluation automated within the software?
MetroSoft™ includes built-in uncertainty calculators aligned with EA-4/02 and ISO/IEC 17025 Annex A.3, incorporating contributions from encoder resolution, thermal expansion, probe deformation, and operator repeatability.
Does the system support third-party artifact certification?
Certified gauge blocks and ring gauges from accredited providers (e.g., NIST SRM, PTB DKD, UKAS) are fully supported; calibration certificates must include stated uncertainties and coverage factors.
How is firmware and software updated?
Updates are delivered via secure USB transfer with cryptographic signature verification; version history and change logs are retained for audit purposes.
