Automatic DCC CMM handles small and medium sized parts.
Press Release Summary:
Providing measuring capacity of 12 x 12 x 10 in., PHOENIX RB features self-contained moving bridge design with full granite table on stand that houses electronics and computer. Hardened and precision ground ways with mechanical bearings provide long-term reliability, while steel scales mounted on steel structures assure uniform thermal response. Motorized system includes controller, joystick, Renishaw probe, and GEOMET software.
Original Press Release:
Helmel Introduces First DCC CMM Under $20,000
HELMEL ENGINEERING PRODUCTS, INC. announces the introduction of their American-made, shop hardened automatic coordinate measuring machine for small and medium sized parts at an introductory price under $20,000. Called the PHOENIX RB, it is a DCC system with a measuring capacity of 12" x 12" x 10", and is a complete, ready-to-run machine with a "real estate friendly" compact footprint. Helmel has been a dedicated broad-line CMM builder in Niagara Falls, NY, and since 1973 has cultivated the more rugged and durable mechanical bearing concepts, developing a reputation for smaller benchtop and mini-CMMs in addition to larger offerings.
The PHOENIX RB is a self-contained moving bridge design with a full granite table on a sturdy stand that houses the electronics and computer. Hardened and precision ground ways with high accuracy mechanical bearings provide long term reliability. Steel scales mounted on steel structures assure uniform thermal response. Intrinsic mechanical accuracy is manufactured in, and is independent of volumetric software error correction, considerably reducing calibration and maintenance cost over time.
The motorized system includes a controller, joystick, Renishaw probe, computer system, and Helmel's proprietary, time proven and easy-to-learn "GEOMET" Software. It is believed to be the first DCC CMM in the USA priced below $20,000 ready to go. The Phoenix RB is rugged, fast, and an excellent CMM value ideally suited to production, lab, and reverse engineering needs.
"At a point in time when US manufacturers need every single competitive, cost-reducing advantage, no matter how small," comments Art Whistler, VP of Sales & Marketing, "who else but Helmel would do this? The price is absurd for a machine of this quality, but we have learned our lessons, honed our skills, and invested in efficiencies over the last 35 years, perhaps for this moment. RB? It stands for either ReBorn, or Recession Buster. You be the judge."
