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What is CMM? and what types of Coordinate Measuring Machine?

What is CMM ?

The full form of  CMM is Coordinate Measuring Machine. It  is an advanced measurement machine that works for measure complex and large components. CMM is a device for measuring the physical characteristics of an object. The machine is controlled by a computer or an operator.

CMM consists of 3-axis namely X-axis, Y-axis, Z-axis. Measurement is done by the prob attached to a third moving axis. This prob could be mechanical, optical, laser or white light.

So, the machine who takes reading in 6 DOF(Degree of freedom) known as CMM.

Learn all about CMM in our online course of Coordinate Measuring machine.

Types of CMM

There are four basic types of stationary CMM:

  • Bridge.
  • Cantilever.
  • Horizontal Arm.
  • Gantry.

Bridge type CMM

bridge type cmm

Bridge CMMs are the most common type of coordinate measuring machine.

It is used for High accuracy, moderate flexibility, for medium-sized components.  

Cantilever CMM

Mitutoyo cantilever cmm
Mitutoyo shop-Flore CMM

Cantilever CMMs differ from the bridge style in that the measuring head is only attached on one side of a rigid base.

This type of CMM is used for Highest Accuracy, Lowest Flexibility, for small-sized components.

Horizontal arm CMM

horizontal arm cmm
Swan horizontal arm CMM

Horizontal arm CMMs are less accurate than the other types of CMM.  because of their design. However, it also makes them useful for measuring large workpieces or components.

This is used for the Lowest accuracy, Highest flexibility, for very large components. Learn all about CMM in our online course of Coordinate Measuring machines.

Gantry CMM

Gantry CMMs are designed similar to bridge type CMMs, but tend to be much larger. 

Gantry CMM is used for High accuracy, Moderate flexibility for large components.

Gantry cmm
Image: Mitutoyo

Probs of CMM

CMM probes are available in three main forms:

  1. Touch-Trigger probes
  2. Displacement Measuring CMM probes
  3. Proximity or Non-contact Probes

Read More about Probs of CMM

Read more about Principles and Parts of CMM

Learn Coordinate Measuring Machine

  • Learn the Basics of Coordinate Measuring Machine
  • Learn principle, parts, terminology, types of probs of CMM
  • Learn the basics of the standard used for Calibration of CMM

Read More about the Online CMM Course