The production of hand-held measuring equipment means large volumes and high demands on the accuracy of the workpieces. In this context, the production measurement technology used is faced with the challenging task of working fast and with a high degree of precision. The solution chosen by HELIOS-PREISSER is BLUM touch probes which are used in the machining centres for continuous measurements integrated into the process.
In 2008, HELIOS-PREISSER, a manufacturer of high-quality hand-held measuring equipment for professional use, became aware that the capacity of its three machining centres previously used for production was no longer sufficient – they were operating around the clock in three shifts. Due to its positive experience with the existing machines, the company based in Gammertingen decided once more to rely on the products of Heller, a machine tool manufacturer in Nuertingen.
A 14-metre long pallet magazine connects the machining centres, which are supplied with clamped workpieces by a robot. This ensured the automated supply, but an opportunity to satisfy the high quality requirements was still lacking. The HELIOS-PREISSER employees already had many years of good experience with BLUM touch probes in the old machining centres which are still operating with great reliability today. The new four-axis machine was also equipped with a BLUM measuring probe. It was only the five-axis centre which used a probe from another manufacturer. However, this did not meet with great approval at HELIOS- PREISSER. "Where possible, I endeavour to make regional purchases. In BLUM, we have found a partner that can offer us high-quality products and corresponding service within a close distance," emphasises CEO Siegfried Lorch. "Particularly as, wherever possible, we would like to have just one point of contact. In addition, we have been extremely satisfied with the BLUM touch probes for years." In the end, BLUM's sales representative Erhard Strobel proposed a solution – an engineer would install the probe and receiver in the new machining centre.