Probe Head for CMM - Component Directory

Product Specifications

Technical details and manufacturing context for Probe Head

Definition

A probe head is a critical component of a Coordinate Measuring Machine (CMM) that serves as the interface between the machine's moving arm and the actual tactile or non-contact probe. It is responsible for holding the probe securely and, in many modern systems, providing motorized or manual rotation in multiple axes (typically A and B axes) to orient the probe at various angles. This capability allows the CMM to measure complex geometries, internal features, and undercuts without requiring manual repositioning of the workpiece. The probe head transmits measurement signals from the probe back to the CMM's control system and often includes mechanisms for automatic probe changing, probe qualification, and collision detection. The probe head operates by providing a rigid yet precisely controllable mounting platform for the probe. In manual heads, the orientation is locked or adjusted by hand. In motorized (indexing or continuous) heads, servo motors rotate the probe around one or two orthogonal axes to predefined angular positions or continuously during scanning. The head maintains positional accuracy through high-precision bearings and angular encoders. It connects electronically to the CMM controller, relaying trigger signals from the probe's contact event and receiving commands for movement. Some advanced heads also incorporate strain gauges or other sensors for dynamic error compensation and crash protection. Typical materials include aluminum alloy, stainless steel, and ceramic composites. Key parameters include a probe mounting thread of M8 (ISO 17025), probe length range of 20–100 mm, probe diameter range of 1–8 mm, repeatability of ±0.5 µm (ISO 10360), measuring force of 0.1–0.5 N, overtravel protection of ±15°, operating temperature of 10–40 °C, storage temperature of -20–70 °C, IP rating of IP54 (IEC 60529), weight of 50–200 g, and material of stainless steel (ASTM A276). These values are directory reference ranges and must be confirmed for the actual model and application with the legal manufacturer or supplier.

Working Principle

The probe head operates by providing a rigid yet precisely controllable mounting platform for the probe. In manual heads, the orientation is locked or adjusted by hand. In motorized (indexing or continuous) heads, servo motors rotate the probe around one or two orthogonal axes to predefined angular positions or continuously during scanning. The head maintains positional accuracy through high-precision bearings and angular encoders. It connects electronically to the CMM controller, relaying trigger signals from the probe's contact event and receiving commands for movement. Some advanced heads also incorporate strain gauges or other sensors for dynamic error compensation and crash protection.

Common Materials

Aluminum alloy, Stainless steel, Ceramic composites

Technical Parameters

Parameter	Typical range	Notes & selection driver
Probe Mounting Thread	M8	Standard thread for compatibility with CMM probe headsISO 17025
Probe Length	20–100 mm	Range of available probe lengths
Probe Diameter	1–8 mm	Diameter of the stylus ball
Repeatability	±0.5 µm	Maximum deviation in repeated measurementsISO 10360
Measuring Force	0.1–0.5 N	Contact force applied during measurement
Overtravel Protection	±15 °	Maximum angular deflection without damage
Operating Temperature	10–40 °C	Temperature range for specified accuracy
Storage Temperature	-20–70 °C	Non-operating temperature limits
IP Rating	IP54	Protection against dust and water splashesIEC 60529
Weight	50–200 g	Weight of the probe head assembly
Material	Stainless steel	Corrosion-resistant material for durabilityASTM A276

Ranges are indicative industry figures for RFQ preparation, not a supplier commitment. Confirm every value and standard with the legal manufacturer before ordering.

Components / BOM

Rotation Unit
Provides precise motorized or manual rotation around the primary (A) and secondary (B) axes.

Material: Stainless steel, precision bearings
Mounting Flange Part
The interface that connects the probe head to the CMM ram or quill.

Material: Aluminum alloy or steel
Probe Interface
The mechanical and electrical connector that holds and communicates with the probe module.

Material: Stainless steel, gold-plated contacts
Encoder System
Measures the exact angular position of the rotation axes for feedback and control.

Material: Glass scale, optical sensors
High-Precision Bearings
Carry the rotating axes; they are what holds the angular accuracy.
Servo Motors Optional
Turn the probe to the commanded angle on motorized indexing or continuous heads.
Strain Gauges Optional
Sense bending load for dynamic error compensation and crash protection, on the advanced heads that have them.

Applied To / Applications

This component is essential for the following industrial systems and equipment:

Coordinate Measuring Machine (CMM)

View system integration details

Coordinate Measuring Machine

View system integration details

Manufacturers of Probe Head

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the function of a probe head in a CMM?

The probe head holds the probe and allows precise positioning and orientation, enabling measurement of complex geometries without manual workpiece repositioning.

What are the typical materials used for probe heads?

Common materials include aluminum alloy, stainless steel, and ceramic composites, as listed in the directory.

What is the repeatability specification for this probe head?

The directory lists a repeatability of ±0.5 µm per ISO 10360, but you must verify the actual value for your specific model with the manufacturer.

How does a motorized probe head work?

Motorized heads use servo motors to rotate the probe around one or two axes, either to predefined positions or continuously, with high-precision bearings and encoders for accuracy.

Data Basis

Editorial classification, named public sources where available, and source-reviewed manufacturer records.

Preliminary Technical Classification

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pressure:	Atmospheric pressure only (non-pressurized component)
other spec:	Vibration tolerance: < 0.5 m/s², Humidity: 30-70% RH non-condensing
temperature:	15°C to 30°C (operational), 10°C to 40°C (storage)

Probe Head

Product Specifications

Applied To / Applications

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