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A CNC touch probe also known as CNC touch plate is an important element of a CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machine. It is a device used to measure and control the position of a tool in a CNC machine. It is a key component in CNC machining and is used to accurately measure the distance between the tool and the workpiece, as well as the pressure applied to the surface of the material.
The CNC touch probe is typically made of metal, plastic, or ceramic and is often mounted on the side of the CNC machine. It is designed to be able to sense the force and pressure applied to the surface of the material being machined, allowing the machine to accurately cut or shape the material.
The CNC touch probe is a very important part of a CNC machine as it is what allows the machine to accurately measure and control the position of the tool and the pressure applied to the workpiece. This accuracy is essential for CNC machining and allows for precise cuts and shapes to be created in the material.
The CNC touch probe consists of a number of different components, including a pressure sensor, a force sensor, and a contact sensor. The pressure sensor is used to measure the pressure applied to the surface of the material and the force sensor is used to measure the force applied to the material. The contact sensor is used to detect the contact between the tool and the workpiece, allowing the machine to accurately measure the distance between the tool and the workpiece.
How CNC Touch Probe Works?
A CNC touch probe works by using a small, sharp tip that is connected to a control system. The tip of the probe is typically a diamond, ceramic, or carbide-tipped stylus, and it is placed in contact with the surface to be measured. As the probe is moved along the surface, the control system measures the distance and direction of the tip and records the data.
To use a CNC touch probe, the device is placed on the surface to be measured. Once the device is in place, the control system is programmed with the measurements that need to be taken. Once the measurements are programmed, the CNC touch probe will begin to scan the surface and measure the distance and direction of the tip.
The CNC touch probe is typically connected to the CNC machine via an interface such as a computer or a hand-held input device. This connection allows the CNC machine to receive information from the CNC touch probe and make the necessary adjustments to the machine’s movements and cutting speed.
The CNC touch probe is an important part of the CNC machining process and is essential for creating precise and accurate cuts and shapes in the material. It is a key component in CNC machining and allows for accurate and precise measurements of the distance between the tool and the workpiece, as well as the pressure applied to the surface of the material.
Types of CNC Touch Probes
These probes are available in a variety of designs and sizes, each suited to a specific job. Here are the four common CNC touch probes that you can consider according to your machine and requirements.
1. Standard Contact Probe
The most common type of CNC touch probe is the standard contact probe. This type of probe is typically used in manual and automated CNC machines. It consists of a spring-loaded probe tip mounted on a shaft, which is connected to a contact switch. When the probe touches the workpiece, the switch is activated, sending a signal to the machine controller to measure the position of the part. These probes are often used for measuring points such as the center and corner of a part, as well as for locating holes, pockets, and other features.
2. Optical Probe
Another type of CNC touch probe is the optical probe. This type of probe uses a combination of optics and a light source to measure the position of a workpiece. The optical probe is typically used in more advanced CNC machines as it can measure features such as curved surfaces and edges. It is also more accurate than the standard contact probe.
3. CNC Inductive Probe
The next type of CNC touch probe is the inductive probe. This type of probe uses an inductive field to measure the position of a workpiece. The probe is typically mounted on a rotating arm and is used to measure the size and position of features such as holes, pockets, and other features. This type of probe is commonly used in CNC milling machines and can be used to measure the position of a workpiece in three dimensions.
4. Non-contact Probe
The last type of CNC touch probe is the non-contact probe. This type of probe uses a laser or an ultrasound to measure the position of a workpiece without actually touching it. This type of probe is used in more advanced CNC machines, as it is more accurate than the other types of probes. It is also used for measuring curved surfaces, or for measuring parts with complex shapes.
Conclusion
CNC touch probes are an important tool for many CNC machining operations. Each type of CNC touch probe has its own advantages and disadvantages, so it is important to choose the right one for the job. Depending on the job, some probes may be more suitable than others, so it is important to assess the job requirements and select the appropriate probe.
