Renishaw offers closed-loop measuring solutions to support large machine tools

“Applications for the new FORTiS measuring systems with extended gauge length including large machine tools for the production of press moulds, vertical lathes (VTLs) and large gantry machines.”

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Renishaw unveils its closed-loop measuring systems, with extended gauge lengths, the FORTiS product family. Designed to support large machine tools, the new solutions can measure lengths up to 4.24 m. The international metrology company intends for the FORTiS solutions to be used in applications including the production of press moulds, vertical lathes (VTLs), and large gantry machines.

Gigacasting is the die-casting process used by the automotive industry when working with large aluminium parts. Components like chassis modules are manufactured in one piece, which are otherwise combined from many stamped and welded steel parts. In this application, a molten aluminium alloy is pressed into a reusable mould under high pressure, cast, and then cooled until solidification is complete.

Throughout the commissioning, maintenance, and ongoing execution of the mega mould process, large CNC machines are utilised. During the production stage, in particular, highly accurate and precise machining is required. FORTiS machine encoders can help to optimise the performance levels of these large machines.

Overall, FORTiS is ideal for users who face increasingly higher precision demands whilst also trying to control costs due to high performance and durability.

About the FORTiS measuring systems

Designed with the help of Renishaw’s RESOLUTE measurement system technology. FORTiS provides continuous cast housing with longitudinally inserted interlocking sealing lips and sealed end caps. The scanning head is connected to an encapsulated optical unit through the DuraSeal sealing lips which travels the entire measuring system.

With the linear axis movement, the read head and optics move without mechanical contact. Instead, it utilises the absolute measuring tape of the measuring system.

Key features of the FORTiS systems:

  • FORTiS-S: This model is the standard size and has gauge lengths from 140 mm to 4240 mm. The system is installed directly onto a machined surface by the holes located on the casting housing.
  • FORTiS-N: Available in gauge lengths from 70 mm to 2040 mm, this version has a narrower continuous casting profile and a more compact scanning head. This edition is ideal for applications in confined spaces. Like the FORTiS-S, the FORTiS-N can also be installed on a machined surface but by the compensating rail.

The FORTiS measuring systems are CE-marked and are ISO 9001:2015 certified. Renishaw also offers worldwide customer service for ongoing support.