Silverstone Park’s Metrology Facility has increased its access to state-of-the-art equipment for the region’s smaller tech businesses with the addition of a latest-spec Hexagon Global Lite co-ordinate measuring machine (CMM).
The Global Lite has been installed this past week by Hexagon Manufacturing’s Intelligence team which manages the facility in partnership with Silverstone Park developer MEPC.
It is one of only two Global Lites in the UK. Whilst in action in the Metrology Facility, it will also act as a demonstrator for SMEs and start-ups interested in taking precision measurement in-house.
Hexagon Facilities Manager Claire Waterson said:
“The machine is pitched at ‘entry level’ (within Hexagon’s famous GLOBAL range) due to its relative ease of use for professionals in advanced engineering and manufacturing.
“Even with limited CMM knowledge, users can take advantage of its intuitive operability and swiftly develop their skills in inspection of componentry.”
The Global Lite can accurately inspect componentry to within 1.9 microns (one micron being the equivalent to 1,000 of a millimetre).
It can measure componentry from 700mm x 700mm x 500mm up to 1,200mm x 3,000mm x 1,000mm in width, length and height respectively.
A versatile design also means it can be upgraded to utilise other technologies so as to future proof a business.
Silverstone Park’s Metrology Facility with Hexagon is unique as the only dedicated sub-contract inspection facility in the UK.
One of its priorities when launched in summer 2016 was to provide support (access to machines and training) for tech businesses both on site and in the wider Silverstone Technology Cluster region.
The Facility is already home to Hexagon’s ultra-powerful Global S machines, influenced in their design by legendary sportscar manufacturer Pininfarina.
Typically, componentry inspected for customers by the Facility’s machines can be for use in sectors/industries such as aerospace, automotive, defence, electronics, medical devices, motorsport, orthopaedics and space.
To contact Silverstone Park’s Metrology Facility: Tel +44 870 446 2667 6637 or Email Claire.waterson@hexagon.com
