CMM Probe Stylus Replacement Guide | Renishaw

What Is a CMM Probe Stylus?

A CMM stylus is a pointed probe, usually with a spherical tip, attached to the contact sensor on a coordinate measuring machine. It physically touches the workpiece at the point being measured. When the stylus contacts the part, it deflects by an angle α from the vertical; the sensor records this deflection and sends a signal to the software. The software confirms the point and calculates dimensional measurements from the probe feedback.

Measurement accuracy depends on three factors: the machine coordinate system, probe accuracy, and measurement method.

Although the stylus and probe are small parts of CMM operation, they are essential to measurement because they contact the measured product directly.

When Should a CMM Stylus Be Replaced?

The stylus and probe directly measure the product and are critical to CMM measurement. CMM accuracy is affected by machine precision, temperature stability, probe type, and the optimal probing method. The stylus also has a major impact on measurement accuracy and reliability. Selecting the right stylus improves both.

Measurement performance and results can be affected by the following factors:

• After long use, contact with samples can wear the tip. Repeated bending during probing can also change the stylus from its original dimensions.
• Handling and operator errors can cause measurement error. A stylus may be dropped or struck against a workpiece, damaging it or causing inaccuracies.
• Use of probe and stylus systems with unknown origin.

About Renishaw Probes

Renishaw was founded in 1973 by David McMurtry.

Headquarters: Wotton-under-Edge, England, United Kingdom.

In 1973, McMurtry needed to measure a fuel pipe on a prototype jet engine. Conventional CMM probes applied too much measuring force, causing errors on thin parts. To solve this, he invented a new probe with improved sensing force and was later granted a patent.

This product helped revolutionize three-dimensional coordinate measurement, enabling accurate measurement of machined parts and completed assemblies.

After more than 50 years of development, Renishaw is a leading global brand in probe systems, with 77 offices in 36 countries and more than 5,000 employees worldwide. More than 3,000 employees work in the United Kingdom, where most research, development, and manufacturing take place.

Renishaw systems are used by many major CMM manufacturers, including Coord3, Mitutoyo, LK, Wenzel, Faro, and Mora.

Renishaw products serve diverse markets, including electronics, automotive, aerospace, machine building, energy, medical and healthcare, science, research, and analysis.

Why Choose Renishaw Styli from Quoc Huy?

Renishaw is a world-leading brand for probe quality, service, and options.

Benefits of using Renishaw probes:

• Products undergo thorough quality checks before delivery, with full support and guidance from professional technical staff. For advice or an issue, Renishaw’s global team can recommend a suitable replacement solution.
• More than 100,000 styli are available in warehouses worldwide, supporting fast delivery.
• A worldwide sales and support network includes offices in 36 countries and global distributors and agents.

Quoc Huy Technique Co., Ltd. distributes Renishaw probes and styli in Vietnam, with northern and southern offices ready to support customers quickly.