Hexagon Metrology Ltd

Why is aerospace manufacturing changing?

Hexagon Metrology Ltd — 05/10/2023

Empowering sustainable innovation and productivity in aerospace

During a time of immense transformation, aerospace manufacturers look to trusted technology partners to help solve the biggest challenges faced by the industry. Hexagon’s hardware and software solutions and deep aerospace expertise empowers makers to achieve ‘right first time’ today while delivering tomorrow’s game-changing sustainable innovations.

Please take a moment to watch this video and discover, firstly, what Hexagon does and then how our technology has already supported huge leaps forward for aerospace and will continue to do so as engineers strive to meet challenging sustainability targets.

How can we accelerate progress towards Net Zero? How can simulation software help reduce physical prototyping and ramp up productivity?

Find the answers to these questions and much more in this video.

Join us in unlocking new sustainable horizons for Aerospace:

https://hxgn.biz/3LQ0eYa

Hexagon official website: https://hxgn.biz/45nKSBc

Hexagon: Supporting British Manufacturing in 2020 and beyond

Hexagon Metrology Ltd — 16/07/2020

If you are a British start-up, an SME, Supply Chain Manufacturer, or a big OEM business, please come and connect with us. We believe passionately that quality drives productivity. This has been amplified recently with the COVID 19 challenge as timelines from concept design to volume production has never been so critical in saving lives.

Hexagon is here to provide a portfolio of hardware and software that optimize this timeline or productivity while ensuring you do not compromise on quality and ensure profitability. We achieve this for you by enabling you to make informed decisions as quickly as possible and with confidence using virtual or real tools and more importantly making it right first time and making it repeatable.

In the new environment, “Productivity” in British Manufacturing will become a critical success factor combined with our Worldwide reputation for Engineering Innovation. We at Hexagon see ourselves as enablers for UK Manufacturing businesses to stay competitive and successful.

Welcome to Hexagon Manufacturing Intelligence: a global, highly profitable, Business with a turn-over of €2.0 billion and 8,000 employees. The British footprint, established in 1976, now has multiple sites and competence with more than 200 employees and £80m turn-over. Hexagon offers a range of solutions including measurement technology, virtual software tools, automation solutions and support services for SMART, forward-thinking manufacturers.

If you're making things in Britain, please come and talk to us.

Join our virtual festival - Backing Britain Live 2020 from 17th-28th August to visit Hexagon's virtual booth. Click here to find out more and get your tickets.

Hexagon Metrology opens Online Store

Hexagon Metrology Ltd — 28/06/2019

Hexagon Metrology announced the opening of HexagonStore.com, an e-commerce portal for the United States that offers online purchase of training classes, parts and accessories for metrology systems. The store includes convenient purchasing of PC-DMIS and GD&T training class seats by date and location, a complete line of TESA and Renishaw Styli products, CMM fixturing kits from R&R and Rayco, and Leica Geosystems laser tracker parts and accessories.

“This new, easy way to purchase training and metrology accessories was developed in response to requests from our customer base,” remarked Al Chiasson, general manager of Hexagon Metrology Services. “The convenience of being able to quickly order products, even after business hours, is a real time-saver.We are planning to expand our product categories leading up to the IMTS show in September.”

About Hexagon Metrology
Hexagon Metrology serves the high precision measurement and inspection needs of worldwide manufacturers with its extensive line of metrology hardware, software, accessories, and customer services. The company's name-brand portfolio of quality assurance products include Brown & Sharpe, CogniTens, Leica Geosystems, ROMER, Sheffield, PC-DMIS, DEA, Leitz, and TESA. Hexagon Metrology has an unrivaled installed base of more than 1.5 million handheld, stationary and portable measurement devices, and over 30,000 seats of PC-DMIS metrology software.

The company is a subsidiary of Hexagon Measurement Technologies, a business unit of Hexagon AB (Nacka Strand, Sweden), a publicly-traded company (OMX Nordic: HEXA B). The Hexagon group consists of nearly 8,200 employees located in 30 countries.

Hexagon Launches New Version of HxGN SMART Quality

Hexagon Metrology Ltd — 20/06/2018

Latest Release Offers Enhanced Workflow Capability and Equipment Effectiveness Management Tools

Hexagon’s Manufacturing Intelligence division today announced a new release of its HxGN SMART Quality online quality data and measurement resource management software, the enterprise IT solution designed to help manufacturers utilise aggregated quality data to gain actionable intelligence and insight for process optimisation. Providing a single platform for managing product quality and measurement resources, HxGN SMART Quality homogenises data from disparate systems across multiple locations to offer a company-wide view of quality. The latest version adds new capabilities to help manufacturers improve equipment effectiveness, assess manufacturing process capability, and handle documents and workflows efficiently.

The new release of HxGN SMART Quality features OEE-like functionality for all machines connected to HxGN SMART Quality so that manufacturers can assess and compare Overall Equipment Effectiveness using a standard metric. Offering insight into both availability and performance, it supports root cause analysis for investigating anomalies on an individual piece of equipment in line with total productive maintenance principles. Improvements to the software’s document- and workflow-management toolset enable manufacturers to build robust processes for measurement and minimise the risk of common operational errors. The user interface has also been enhanced with an individually-configurable dashboard, while user-friendly functionality such as the ability to display part-mounting instructions within INSPECT helps to simplify shop-floor operations. HxGN SMART Quality’s statistical process control capabilities are boosted with the addition of Q-DAS Monitoring, which enables near real-time visualisation of measurement and process data. The software’s connectivity credentials are enhanced by the ability to directly interface with Heidenhain CNC controllers, offering new potential for data exchange with production equipment.

“HxGN SMART Quality was created to address the underutilisation of quality data within the manufacturing process by connecting equipment and automatically aggregating and structuring data in a standard format so that it can be used to make improvements,” said Benjamin Bickel, Product Manager for HxGN SMART Quality. “In this release we’ve really focused on equipment effectiveness, with new resource management tools designed to assess and improve utilisation and performance in the context of environmental conditions. In conjunction with the software’s powerful toolset for manufacturing process capability studies, this new functionality adds a huge amount of value for manufacturers who need to streamline processes to remain competitive.”

The latest release of HxGN SMART Quality is available worldwide from today. Visitors to HxGN LIVE, Hexagon’s premier cross-industry technology conference, can see the new version featured in the Tech Highlights programme. More information is available via local Hexagon commercial operations and dealers.

F1 Links Steer Hexagon To Greater Success

Hexagon Metrology Ltd — 27/09/2013

F1 motor racing teams are helping drive one of the UKs top measurement specialists to develop more innovative products and services.

Hexagon Metrology UK says its business processes and strategies benefit from the rapid problem solving and tight deadlines demanded by the worlds premier motorsport engineers.

The company, which has a long association with motor racing, has recently signed an agreement to become an official supplier to the Marussia F1 team based in Banbury, Oxfordshire.

The team is using a Hexagon DEA Global CMM machine equipped with Leitz LSP-X1 analogue probe and PC-DMIS software for a range of measurement and inspection tasks.

Hexagon has also supplied one of its latest Romer articulated portable measuring arms with built-in laser scanner, which is employed in a variety of locations including the teams modelling and inspection facilities.

Our level of reliability this season has been impressive and we are currently the second most reliable team on the grid. We recognize that suppliers such as Hexagon have a role to play in that, explained Marussia F1 team operations manager Kevin Lee.

The equipment, especially the portable measuring arm, is already proving to be very beneficial in terms of the development work being undertaken in light of next seasons changes to the aerodynamics and drivetrain regulations, he added.

As well as supplying equipment, Hexagon also provides technical support to the team via its nationwide network of service and software application engineers.

It is very satisfying to know that F1 teams such as Marussia use Hexagon equipment to fulfil their constant demand for information, ensuring they can use the measurement data to make informed decisions quickly, said David Brown, Hexagon Metrology UKs general manager.

Equally, Hexagons involvement in the agile and creative setting of motorsport engineering is a great motivator for our staff, helping them further improve their problem solving skills and ability to work to tight time constraints, he stated.

Hexagons staff development and management systems have just been recognized with a prestigious award achieved only by the top 2 per cent of British businesses. It has attained the Investors in People Gold standard after a thorough appraisal by a group of independent auditors.

Hexagon is a long-established supplier of stationary and portable metrology equipment, which is supported by a wide variety of customer services such as system and software maintenance and training.

For more information on how the world's largest metrology group can help your business, please use 'Get In Touch' button or call 0870 446 2667 and mention Made In The Midlands.

EDGECAM now Supports one of the Fastest 5-Axis Machining Tools

Hexagon Metrology Ltd — 03/07/2019

Software features Barrel Cutter Support, Performance Improvements and New Gun Drilling Cycle

The introduction of a specific 5-axis ‘Tilt’ control strategy, combined with a ‘Barrel Cutter,’ is said to be the most significant enhancement in the latest release of EDGECAM, from Hexagon Manufacturing Intelligence’s Production Software division.

Brand Manager John Buehler says barrel cutters are recognised as one of the fastest tools when 5-axis machining, and are now fully supported in the EDGECAM Toolstore.

As well as the new ‘side tilt by contact point’ capability, the Advanced 5-axis cycle also offers further gouge checking in the Swarf command, along with extra “ink” control in all strategies.

A number of new and enhanced features in EDGECAM 2020.0 provide increased productivity for both milling and turning users. And the recently introduced EDGECAM Inspect module includes 13 upgrades.

First…mindful of the need to generate quick toolpaths to reduce production costs, EDGECAM 2020.0 offers a significant performance boost when either roughing or profiling a solid model. “Essentially, the machining engine will only compute data constrained within the boundary, ignoring the rest of the model. This significantly decreases the cache size, while generating faster toolpaths.”

Formerly introduced in the Hole cycle in the 2018 R1 release, the ‘Deep Hole” strategy has been enhanced, justifying the creation of its own individual cycle. The original modifiers have been improved, and further control tabs have been added to the cycle, giving greater control over the toolpath.

The Turning environment offers a new machining cycle – Thread Profiling. “Reacting to a high frequency of enhancement requests from customers in this area, EDGECAM 2020.0 allows users to effortlessly machine complex form threads such as VAM and Acme,” says John Buehler. “The cycle provides both roughing and finishing strategies, allowing users to specify their own thread forms.”

The ever-popular Waveform Machining Strategy has been enhanced with ‘Chip Prevention’ control. Under certain conditions, a toolpath can generate a thin island of material (chip), which, as it gets thinner can cause machining stresses, and potentially break the tool.

“We’ve found that to compensate for this risk, users tend to sacrifice productivity by reducing feeds and speeds. So we’ve introduced the ‘Chip Prevention’ option which alters the toolpath pattern, by machining across the island of material, removing the possibility of machining stresses, allowing users to maintain optimum feeds and speeds.”

Supporting the growing number of machine tools possessing an ‘Auxiliary Z’ (Quill), EDGECAM 2020.0 introduces a Code Wizard enhancement, letting users add a secondary working spindle. This supports multi-task machine, along with any combination of Table/Head Milling machines. Coupled with that, a new ‘Quill Command (Move menu), offer greater control when commanding the second working axis.

When using the Finish Grooving cycle, users can now control the ‘Break Edge’ angle. In previous EDGECAM releases, the break angle was set at 45-degrees.

In the Finish Turning cycle a ‘stand off’ value can now be defined when using ‘Up Cut’ control.

An XY Offset can be set when deploying the Hole Cycle’s ‘Helical’ strategy, allowing users to control both surface finish and tool wear. “It also leads to reduced CAD preparation time, while guaranteeing that the cycle is associative to the solid model.”

Two new tool types – Dovetail, and Double Angle – have been added to the Toolstore. This does away with the need to create custom graphics for them, saving time and programming costs. And the tools work automatically with the Slot Cycle.

Moving on to EDGECAM Inspect, Brand Manager for Research and Development Andy Mears says developers have responded to numerous customer requests by expanding the ability of Inspect components in both the Turning and Mill-Turn environments.

The overall interface has been upgraded to adopt the work-flow ribbon toolbar, improving interactivity. The ‘Probing Options’ menu has been split into two separate dialogs, meaning users can concentrate on Output and Inspect preferences individually.

Multi million pound investment in IT aims to improve customer service

Hexagon Metrology Ltd — 02/01/2014

Hexagon Metrology UK has begun rolling out a series of new IT and customer service systems as part of a major investment project.

A new CRM (Customer Relationship Management) system, which is designed to complement the companys reorganisation of its national sales team, has already gone live.

A new telephone system is set to be installed shortly while new IT operations for areas such as finance and control and aftermarket sales and service scheduling will be online over the coming months.

The 18-month long project is part of a multi-million dollar IT scheme, which is being led by Hexagon Metrologys parent company and includes other subsidiaries around the world.

The infrastructure investment has also coincided with the appointment of a new UK management team, which will spearhead a major expansion programme.

Not only do these new IT systems further improve the way we communicate with our customers, staff and international colleagues, but they also demonstrate a huge commitment to growing our business, explained Brett Green, director of sales and marketing.

The company will showcase its latest metrology solutions at MACH, the UKs largest manufacturing technologies show, at Birminghams NEC from April 7-11.

If you'd like to learn more in the meantime then please use the 'Get In Touch' button or contact the office on 0870 446 2667, and be sure to mention Made In The Midlands.

HEXAGON METROLOGY HELPS SUPPORT FUTURE ENGINEERS

Hexagon Metrology Ltd — 29/01/2014

Hexagon Metrology UK is giving a helping hand to tomorrows engineers thanks to a deal to supply its equipment to a top university.

Staffordshire University has taken delivery of a Hexagon Optiv 321GL TP multi-sensor co-ordinate measuring machine and Romer portable measuring arm for use in its engineering centre at Stoke-on-Trent.

Hexagon Metrology has also provided an extensive range of Tesa hand tools, a work station which doubles as a base for the Romer arm and equipment storage, plus a series of training sessions for university staff and 20 educational off-line licenses for its industry-standard PC-DMIS software.

The Hexagon Optiv machine is equipped with a touch-trigger tactile probe and a non-contact vision sensor so that students can learn about two different principles of CMM measurement and their applications. It is also fully 'direct computer controlled' which means it can be used to teach CNC measurement and manual techniques.

The equipment uses Hexagons PC-DMIS software and is fully CAD capable, allowing students to use CAD models to program directly in the measuring device rather than working with 2d drawings.

The Optiv is highly accurate and living up to our expectations while the Romer arm is an important asset in our active automotive section where it will be used in the field for measuring important dimensions in applications such as race car suspension settings, explained Professor David Cheshire.

Hexagon Metrology was very professional and extremely helpful throughout the purchasing process and their trainers proved to be extremely thorough, he added.

The university annually recruits 150 MSc students and over 200 undergraduate engineering and technology students. It has close links with major employers such as Bentley, Jaguar Land Rover and JCB.

As one of the UKs leading metrology solutions providers, Hexagon recognises the importance of supporting the next generation of engineers and the vital role they play in a healthy, vibrant manufacturing sector, commented Chris Ivory, Hexagon Metrology UKs Midlands Area Sales Manager.

In addition, Hexagon Metrology will be offering students an opportunity to expand their skills by attending periodic open days at its Telford head office where they will be able to learn more metrology techniques.

Elsewhere, Hexagon Metrology is set to showcase its latest products, including a new Romer Arm model and Leica laser tracker B-Probe, at MACH (stand 5710, Hall 5), NEC Birmingham, from April 7-11.

If you'd like to know more then please use the 'Get in Touch' button or call 0870 446 2667 and be sure to mention Made In The Midlands.

Photo: Hexagon Metrology UKs area sales manager Chris Ivory, (left), and David Cheshire, Professor of Design Technology at Staffordshire University.

Work at home smarter

Hexagon Metrology Ltd — 26/03/2020

Discover how Hexagon is helping manufacturing professionals stay productive from home

Our customers, employees and partners are at the heart of what we do. As the world works to manage the impact of the COVID-19 outbreak, we want you to know that at Hexagon we recognise the seriousness of the threat and are taking every measure we can to protect our workforce while maintaining our services to you.

The measures being put in place to reduce the spread of COVID-19 mean that many companies are asking employees to work from home. We want to help you maximise your team’s ability to work remotely so that you can keep your businesses running as efficiently as possible.

We are now offering a number of free home working options to give you access to Hexagon’s CAE simulation, CAD CAM and metrology software solutions, as well as online learning tools to ensure you’re getting the most out of your manufacturing technologies. We hope that these new options provide the connectivity and flexibility you need to be as productive as possible.

We hope that you, your families and your colleagues remain safe and healthy in these difficult times.

Please click on the link for more information: https://www.hexagonmi.com/about-us/covid-19-coronavirus/work-at-home-smarter

If you have any questions or queries please direct to Jason.James@hexagon.com

Thank you

Hexagon & Metrology Plays a Vital Role at ITER

Hexagon Metrology Ltd — 31/01/2023

ITER is a vast and ambitious long-term project based in southern France with the goal of confirming the viability of fusion as a sustainable source of power for generations to come.

With over a million components to be assembled, the final machine must meet the complex design parameters, within exacting tolerances, on a project that brings together particle physics and real-world engineering.

Cooperation between Hexagon and the ITER team goes back to the project’s very beginnings in 2007 and was formalized in 2020, as the project entered its long-awaited assembly stage, with the inauguration of a preferred supplier agreement.

The initial assembly phase of the project, to deliver First Plasma, requires an utmost focus on precision, and under the agreement, Hexagon became the main avenue of Metrology support for the ITER central team and its principal contractors.

A wide range of Hexagon metrology hardware has been deployed at the ITER site in France, as well as at dozens of contractor locations around the world, with the Absolute Tracker product range widely deployed across various measurements and assembly applications.

We recently had the opportunity to speak with Dave Wilson, leader of the ITER metrology group, about how his team have been applying Hexagon measurement solutions to ensure the accurate construction of one of the world’s most exciting energy research projects.

Here is a link directly to that conversation; https://hexagon.com/resources/resource-library/the-importance-of-metrology-when-harnessing-the-power-of-the-sun

And a 2nd link to how Hexagon products play many vital roles in constructing one of the world’s first nuclear fusion reactors at ITER in France.

In the site’s massive Assembly Hall, the direct scanning Leica Absolute Tracker ATS600 laser tracker is used to ensure the correct alignment and construction of the nine reactor subassemblies as they are prepared for installation within the Tokamak Pit.

The ability to measure with metrology-grade accuracy direct from the tracker, with no need for a probe, reflector or handheld scanner, makes the ATS600 a uniquely capable solution for this ultra-large-scale project.

HEXAGON EYES MORE SUCCESS WITH BIG EXPANSION PLANS

Hexagon Metrology Ltd — 13/11/2013

Hexagon Metrology has unveiled a new management team to spearhead a major expansion programme in the UK.

David Brown, Director and General Manager, has appointed Brett Green as Director of Sales and Marketing, Mark Wilding as Director of Operations and Sharon Bagri as Director of Finance and Control.

The top measurement solutions provider has also reorganized its national sales team to accommodate its growing product portfolio and strong order book.

Two Regional Sales Managers, John Drover and Steve Shickell, have been appointed to oversee Hexagons team of Area Sales Managers and Product Line Specialists.

The UK order book has grown by 72 per cent over the last three years and the companys latest quarterly figures have revealed its highest-ever order intake for bridge co-ordinate measuring machines.

The expansion coincides with the roll-out of a multi-million pound investment project in new IT and customer service systems by Hexagons parent company.

Hexagon Metrology UK, which employs 88 people and has an annual turnover of around £20m, has also recently invested in a new precision centre at Chester and dedicated sub contract measurement facility at its Telford head office. It will shortly open a new site at Milton Keynes.

This expansion programme is the culmination of a strategic review which began more than a year ago and represents the latest phase in our goal to become the countrys leading metrology solutions provider, said general manager David Brown.

A dynamic management and sales operation together with a substantial investment in infrastructure and systems demonstrate Hexagons commitment to giving customers the very best metrology products and services, he added.

Meanwhile, the company has won a prestigious award achieved only by the top two per cent of British businesses. It has attained the Investors in People Gold standard after a thorough appraisal by a group of independent auditors.

Hexagon Metrology is a long-established UK supplier of stationary and portable metrology equipment, which is supported by a wide variety of customer services such as system and software maintenance and training. www.hexagonmetrology.co.uk

Photo caption: Hexagon Metrology UKs new management team (l to r) Brett Green, Mark Wilding, Sharon Bagri and David Brown.

MEASURE OF SUCCESS FOR NEW SOFTWARE TRAINING ROADSHOWS

Hexagon Metrology Ltd — 03/10/2018

Hexagon Manufacturing Intelligence’s new-style roadshow events, which keep customers at the forefront of the latest metrology developments, are proving to be a runaway success.

The measurement solutions provider has seen a big increase in the number of delegates who have attended its annual PC-DMIS software training seminars following a decision to expand the number of locations this year.

Holders of Hexagon’s Software Maintenance Agreement (SMA) contracts have flocked to venues in Bristol, Silverstone Park and Telford not only to learn more about up-to-the-minute product enhancements, but also sign up for new services such as Hexagon’s online e-learning portal.

The next roadshow takes place on October 10 at the Institute for Automotive & Manufacturing Advanced Practice (AMAP) in Sunderland. The final events will be held at Queen’s University, Belfast, on October 30, and Limerick Institute of Technology on November 1.

“Our decision to treble the number of seminar venues and at locations closer to our customer base is paying dividends. Delegates have welcomed the new format and wider choice of dates,” commented Sam O’Prey, Aftermarket Sales and Marketing Manager.

Delegates were impressed by the wide variety of presentations, particularly the PC-DMIS tips and tricks sessions, and the in-depth information provided by Hexagon’s team of application engineers, he added.

Hexagon’s SMA contracts offer a range of benefits which include service pack and warranty updates, online and telephone technical support, free annual training seminar and webinars.

Further information is available online: http://www.hexagonmi.com/en-GB/service-and-support/maintenance-contracts/software-maintenance

Maintaining Your Measuring Equipment: What is the Difference Between a Verification and a Calibration?

Hexagon Metrology Ltd — 13/01/2020

What is the difference between measuring system calibration and verification?

This is a question that I get asked a lot, and I’m not surprised. These terms can be used interchangeably by some service providers, which has understandably led to confusion. But it’s important that customers are certain what they are getting when they buy verification and/or calibration services.

So let’s look at the terminology as it is widely accepted and understood in the world of metrology equipment manufacturers.

A verification (or certification) is the process of confirming whether a coordinate measuring machine (CMM) performs within its stated specifications. A verification indicates the probability that the measurement error is smaller than the specified maximum permissible error.

In a verification, the user can define the maximum permissible error as the largest error that they are prepared to accept. But the verification process does not compensate for any lack of trueness or apply a correction. That’s where the calibration comes in.

A calibration is the process of restoring a machine back to its stated specifications. This is a separate service from a verification and there are a number of factors to bear in mind when considering a calibration for your measuring machine.

Firstly, how accurate do you need your metrology equipment to be, i.e.,what is the largest permissible error you would accept? It should be noted that widening tolerance acceptances for the sake of certification can reduce control over measurement uncertainty and quality.

What does your service provider actually provide? Will they service your equipment, changing filters, fine-tuning the machine as part of annual preventative maintenance, or can they only provide a certificate verifying the machine’s permissible error?

Crucially, how long will it take your service provider to perform verification and calibration? How soon will it take for them to get round to your machine, and how long do the processes take to complete? A major consideration are calibrated gauge blocks.

Gauge blocks, and any other calibration reference artefact, need to undergo a soak time to acclimatise to the machine’s environment. This takes a minimum of 24 hours, and it’s why the very first thing our engineers do when they start work on a customer’s machine is unpack the gauge block in order for it to start to soak during the first 24 hours whilst they carry on with other service-related work.

For the same reason, our portable equipment is usually calibrated at a Hexagon Manufacturing Intelligence service centre within temperature-controlled environments and anti static floors that aren’t cut off from the additional effects of light and vibration. Likewise, it’s why the customer’s portable equipment is left for 24 hours or more before service and calibration work begins.

Perhaps the most fundamental consideration is the certification of the service provider. Is the provider a recognised calibration laboratory accredited in accordance with ISO 17025, certifying equipment to the ISO 10360 standard? These levels of accreditation are essential for ensuring competence of testing and calibration services; it’s the minimum standard you should expect from your service provider. This is standard practice for any OEM engineer that is looking to perform a full calibration, or even verification.

For more informatio on the services we offer please visit our website: www.hexagonmi.com

Special CMM Deal for SMEs

Hexagon Metrology Ltd — 10/10/2013

An entry-level 3D coordinate measuring machine (CMM) is now available as part of a special promotion aimed at small and medium sized businesses.

Hexagon Metrology's DEA Pioneer 5.6.4 model provides all the features necessary for performing a wide range of inspection tasks quickly, easily and accurately.

Built in the same factory as the class-leading DEA Global range of CMMs, the Pioneer shares many of the same patented features and proven design principles. For example, the machine incorporates Hexagons patented Tricision lightweight bridge, which has a wider bearing separation and lower centre of gravity than a conventional bridge - thus affording high speeds, fast acceleration and increased throughput.

The Pioneers one-piece granite worktable features a precision-machined dovetail for better rigidity which in turn allows for higher accuracy, repeatability and robustness.

The Pioneer machines also benefit from Hexagon's easy to use yet immensely powerful PC-DMIS software - the worlds largest metrology software.

Hexagons promotion, which runs until the end of December, offers a full CNC system starting from £29,995. As well as the CMM, the deal includes a motorized Tesastar probe, PC-DMIS Pro software, styli kit, PC, monitor and table plus a years warranty, delivery and installation.

This Pioneer model uses technology from other systems in the DEA range, meaning it aims high above entry level standards. commented sales and marketing director Brett Green.

If you like to know more, please use the 'Get in Touch' button or contact us on 0870 446 2667 and be sure to mention Made In The Midlands.

Hexagon Metrology Co-operates with Olympic Skeleton Team

Hexagon Metrology Ltd — 07/01/2014

Multiple Skeleton champion Kristan Bromleys technicians use Hexagon's ROMER Absolute Arm to optimise sled design and set-up for the Sochi Winter Olympics.

Hexagon Metrology has started a co-operation with the UK-based skeleton racing team Bromley Technologies. Bromley Technologies use a ROMER Absolute Arm with integrated laser scanner to optimise sled design for Kristan Bromley, multiple British, European and World Champion, and competitor at the Sochi 2014 Winter Olympics.

Skeleton racing is a high-speed winter sliding sport. The athlete rides a small sled, lying face down and head first. Racers regularly reach up to 145 km/h. The G forces are trying to push your head into the track, so you really need to feel that the sled is an extension of your body, said Kristan Bromley. We place huge importance on analysis and simulation, and with Hexagon Metrology, we have found a partner that provides the perfect tool for measuring and digitizing the sled. With the ROMER Absolute Arm, we can scan a sleds physical characteristics within minutes.

The Skeleton competitions in Sochi take place between February 13^th and 15^th, 2014. More information about the ROMER Absolute Arm is available at http://hex.ag/rCxKa, more information about Bromley Technologies can be found at http://www.bromleytechnologies.com/.

About Hexagon Metrology

Hexagon Metrology offers a comprehensive range of products and services for all industrial metrology applications in sectors such as automotive, aerospace, energy and medical. We support our customers with actionable measurement information along the complete life cycle of a product from development and design to production, assembly and final inspection.

If you would like to know more then please use 'Get In Touch' button or call 0870 446 2667 and be sure to mention 'Made In The Midlands'.

Hexagon Seminars Boost Measuring Skills

Hexagon Metrology Ltd — 21/08/2013

Getting to grips with measurement uncertainty was the most popular topic at a series of software training events hosted by Hexagon Metrology.

More than 50 delegates attended the seminars held at the companys technical centres in Telford and Swindon to learn more about the latest developments in measuring techniques.

Sessions on understanding measurement uncertainty and geometric dimensioning and tolerancing were so well received that plans are in hand to run a number of dedicated workshops later this year.

As well as presentations on best practices and vision, Hexagons team of application engineers guided delegates through the latest features added to the PC-DMIS software package and demonstrated products such as the Romer portable measuring arm.

Hexagon also presented every delegate with a free digital caliper and organised a special quiz with top prizes of 16gb iPad Minis, which were won by Matt Robson from Amdale and Christopher Williams from Nifco UK.

Im delighted with the positive feedback from these informative seminars which demonstrate Hexagons ongoing commitment to offering a wide variety of value-added customer services, said aftermarket commercial manager Sam OPrey.

Hexagon supports its extensive product portfolio of portable and stationary equipment with services such as system and software maintenance, training and sub-contract measurement.

To find out more about future Hexagon training events, call the aftermarket sales team on 0870 446 2667 or visit www.hexagonmetrology.co.uk for more details.

Can I measure it? Video series

Hexagon Metrology Ltd — 13/02/2023

Choosing the ideal inspection solution isn’t only about ensuring you can meet your accuracy needs today but adopting technologies that can grow with your business, adapt to your expanding application needs and drive productivity.

In our video series, we will be answering the questions we hear time and time again,

Can I measure it? Each episode will dive into topics such as measurement as a first-time CMM user, how to measure finished or sensitive parts or even how to measure entire geometries of the most intricate parts.

Join us as we uncover new solutions that will allow you to put true data to work and bring significant value to your quality operations. This virtual event is your opportunity to refresh your approach to manufacturing from the comfort of your home or office.

Please click on the following Link to unlock all our videos

MIM members find out how Hexagon measures up at networking event

Hexagon Metrology Ltd — 26/10/2018

More than 50 Made in the Midlands members were in attendance as Hexagon Manufacturing Intelligence hosted the network’s latest breakfast networking event.

The Telford company welcomed members to its base at Halesfield where it demonstrated some of its latest machines, including coordinate measuring machines (CMMs), probes and sensors, portable measuring arms, laser tracker systems, micrometers, gauges and more.

David Brown, General Manager, Hexagon, presented an outline of the business to members detailing what the business did and who its customers were.

He explained that the machinery is used in a wide range of sectors such as automotive and motorsport, aerospace, electronics and medtech, with many of the leading businesses in each of these sectors named as customers.

The type of machines supplied by the company are very much in keeping with the principles of Industry 4.0 and one of the members attending was Steve McCarthy, Managing Director of Mackart Additive and vice-chair of the MIM Industry 4.0 Advisory Board.

He said: “It was fascinating to see some of these machines in action and to see how the data captured from them is used in Hexagon’s smart factory systems.

“It’s something the Advisory Board feels passionate about and supports our goal of developing an Industry 4.0 roadmap for members to follow.”

As well as Advisory Board representation, there was also a strong presence from MIM Patrons, including: R&D Tax Claims, Gleeson Recruitment, CEC Energy, FBC Manby Bowdler, Capex, My Workwear and new member Brewin Dolphin.

Others attending included: Plastic Coating, Acoustafoam, Filtermist International, Boneham & Turner, Staysafe PPE, Jungheinrich UK, LFE Engineering, Heller, Direct Air, RS Components, Dutton Simulation, Marches Centre of Manufacturing & Technology, Inductelec, Protolabs, University of Wolverhampton, The ACME Spring Co, Metal Processes, EFAFLEX, Beck & Pollitzer, Lineview Solutions, Nufast, Laser Process, Autocraft, Wrekin Sheetmetal, In-Comm Training and Business Services, AMCO Services, MTC, Vero Software, Smart-Space UK, Banelec, Starrag UK, Tungaloy UK, Contrinex UK, Lasershape, Box Factory, and Jones and Wilkinson.

For details on future Made in the Midlands events visit www.madeinthemidlands.com/events

The day has come! Have a look at the new member of the Absolute Tracker family.

Hexagon Metrology Ltd — 17/06/2022

New ultra-long-range Laser Tracker platform with wireless handheld probe from Hexagon

Next-generation probing usability, an integrated controller and unmatched readiness for challenging environments come to the 3D laser tracker segment.

Hexagon’s Manufacturing Intelligence division today announced the launch of the Leica Absolute Tracker AT500 and accompanying B-Probe^plus, the company’s latest 3D laser tracker system. Succeeding the hugely successful AT400 series, the new AT500 platform brings improved performance to both reflector and probing measurement, along with a new battery-powered integrated controller design, full IP54-rated environmental protection and an expanded operating temperature range.

The AT500 has been designed as the most portable and robust laser tracker in Hexagon’s range. A number of features contribute to extremely fast setup times, including the system’s built-in controller unit, a first for an Absolute Tracker. This new design is a big step forward in portability, with cabling minimised and setup reduced to an essentially plug-and-play concept. Alongside the platform having no need for levelling or initialising on a reflector before measurement begins, this development allows the system to deliver significant overall productivity improvements and reduced time-to-result.

This next-generation laser tracker platform also delivers a revolution in probing functionality with the new B-Probe^plus. An increased tilting angle and working volume makes the probe comfortable to use and easy to target, with real-time connection feedback displayed directly on the probe unit’s live display readout, helping to ensure data points are measured correctly on the first click. And all that comes with accuracy certification in line with ISO 10360-10 specifications.

Hexagon releases PC-DMIS 2020 R1

Hexagon Metrology Ltd — 02/03/2020

PC-DMIS 2020 R1 delivers new features, capabilities and greater usability for portable measuring arm users.

Hexagon’s Manufacturing Intelligence division today launched PC-DMIS 2020 R1, the latest edition of the world’s most popular measurement software. PC-DMIS 2020 R1 brings new features, capabilities and an enhanced user experience to portable measuring arm operators and those who scan and create point cloud data.

The new feature ‘Guided Portable Execution’ streamlines the creation and execution of contact Auto Features. This takes the guesswork out of measurement manual measurement paths by guiding the user through the measurements, showing where measurement points need to be taken in red and points already captured in green, whilst automatically scaling and rotating to the active Auto Feature. For users of scanning devices, they can now show the point cloud data as a mesh display, selecting a pre-defined profile with one click from the portable scanning widget toolbar. The new point cloud noise reduction filter automatically removes any points too far away from the global cloud. The user can adjust the sensitivity of the filter, offering the right level for each task.

In addition to these new features aimed at enhancing the use of measuring arms, 2020 R1 offers improvements to existing features. The Protect feature, introduced in PC-DMIS 2019 R1 to help PC-DMIS users version control their measurement routines and add levels of traceability to their processes, has been enhanced with the addition of a new ‘Supervisor role’. Ideal for companies that follow a multi-level approval process, this feature enables restrictions on who has the authority to certify or reject measurement routine changes submitted by the programmer. Home Page was introduced in PC-DMIS 2019 R2, offering a new and more intuitive way for the user to manage and access their routines, with useful links to resources, information and forums on the PC-DMIS home screen. In 2020 R1 this has been improved by the addition of example measurement routines and preloaded best practice templates, as well as the capability for users to create and share their own templates.

“We are very pleased to release this latest version of our market-leading metrology software PC-DMIS,” says Ken Woodbine, Senior Product Manager – PC-DMIS Collaborative Solutions at Hexagon’s Manufacturing Intelligence division. “PC-DMIS 2020 R1 offers a number of features designed for our customers that use portable arms and scanners as well as building on some of our recent, innovative features. The improvements in this version continue to illustrate PC-DMIS’s extensive capabilities across the different types of metrology equipment and measurement technologies.”

This is the first of two major PC-DMIS releases scheduled for 2020, with continued service pack updates to ensure maximum reliability of the platform. PC-DMIS 2020 R1 is available to download immediately from HexagonMI.com or through Universal Updater. More information is available through local Hexagon commercial operations and dealers.

Hexagon Metrology and the BLOODHOUND SSC Land Speed Record project

Hexagon Metrology Ltd — 06/02/2013

Hexagon Metrology is proud to announce that it has signed an agreement to provide expert metrology consultation and services to the BLOODHOUND SSC project.

Hexagon Metrology will be using its full range of class leading measurement equipment to inspect individual components and sub-assemblies and ultimately to ensure the car is built as designed.

Experience and success in the F1 industry, along with being the number one metrology supplier to the UK aerospace industry, puts Hexagon Metrology in pole position to guide the Bloodhound SSC project to 1000mph and a new land speed record. Metrology plays a vital role in the design, build and application of high speed aerodynamic vehicles of all types. The Bloodhound SSC project is unique in that it combines the dynamics of a car and a fighter jet and dimensionally, everything must be perfect for the mission to succeed.

Laser inspection and sign-off of composite components has already begun and Hexagon Metrology experts will work closely with the Bloodhound SSC engineering team to ensure the car build is accurate, as the design becomes reality.

Richard Noble commented, "As we push the boundaries beyond 1000mph we need a partner that can match our ambition and provide us with mission critical measurement services using a range of class leading equipment at the forefront of metrology. From the smallest detail on the car to the alignment of the major car components over its total 12.8 meter length, everything has to be right."

HEXAGON HAS THE GOLDEN TOUCH

Hexagon Metrology Ltd — 24/10/2013

Hexagon Metrology UK has won recognition for its staff development with a prestigious award achieved by only the top two per cent of British businesses.

The measurement specialist has attained the Investors in People Gold standard after a thorough appraisal of its management systems by a team of independent auditors.

Hexagon, which has offices in Telford, Chester and Milton Keynes, chose to be assessed for the highest honour as it had been an accredited IIP organization since 2002.

I believe its very important to allow ourselves to be audited across a wide range of areas, so that we can use the good and challenging feedback to build strategies for continuous improvement, commented general manager David Brown.

It was a pleasant surprise to learn that we had satisfied the criteria and reached the elite standard. Highly motivated people with great attitude are critical to the success of a business, he added.

Hexagon had to meet more than 100 evidence requirements, which were gathered by assessors who interviewed and observed staff during the in-depth audit process.

The company employs 88 people in the UK and has an annual turnover approaching £20 million. It has recently invested in a new sub-contract inspection and measurement facility at its Telford head office.

Hexagon is a long-established supplier of stationary and portable metrology equipment, which is supported by a wide variety of customer services such as system and software maintenance and training. To find out more please use the 'Get in Touch' button or call or call 0870 446 4667 and be sure to mention Made In The Midlands.

Photo caption: Hexagon Metrology UKs general manager David Brown with the Investors in People Gold award.

Hexagon acquires Romax Technology

Hexagon Metrology Ltd — 20/03/2020

Hexagon, a global leader in sensor, software and autonomous solutions, has announced the signing of an agreement to acquire Romax Technology Limited, a leading provider of Computer Aided Engineering (CAE) software for electromechanical drivetrain design and simulation.

A greater focus on energy efficiency and an accelerating shift towards electrification brings new engineering challenges that require increased use of simulation tools earlier in the design lifecycle. Romax Technology brings more than 30 years of experience in electromechanical simulation and multi-physics design optimisation.

The cloud-enabled MBSE (model-based systems engineering) platform, Romax Nexus, provides a complete workflow for designing, simulating and delivering the next generation of energy efficient drive and power generation systems, enabling engineers to collaborate and optimise electrical and mechanical design simultaneously.

By simulating the operation of the entire system – engine, gears, bearings and housings – the efficiency of automobile, aerospace and wind turbine powertrains can be optimised, and the battery range of electric vehicles can be increased.

“One of the greatest challenges of our time is the battle against climate change and the need to reduce GHG emissions,” said Hexagon president and CEO Ola Rollén. “The acquisition of Romax Technology enables us to meet the growing need for electrification, providing our customers with integrated tools that empower engineering teams to develop the next generation of energy-efficient electric vehicles.

“Electrification is a growing trend in automotive and aerospace but also presents new opportunities for Hexagon in the development of renewable energy systems.”

Headquartered in Nottingham, UK, Romax Technology has approximately 240 employees globally serving more than 250 customers in the automotive, aerospace, wind power, marine, bearing and rail industries. The company will operate as part of Hexagon’s Manufacturing Intelligence division. Completion of the transaction (closing) is subject to standard regulatory approvals. 2019 sales amounted to €27 million.

Hexagon Manufacturing Intelligence
www.hexagonmi.com

HEXAGON'S HELPING HAND FOR YOUNG ENGINEERS

Hexagon Metrology Ltd — 03/12/2013

Hexagon Metrology UK is showing its commitment to supporting the next generation of engineers by taking on three apprentices.

Adam Rumney, aged 20, from Wem, together with Jake Walters and Joe Weston, both 18, of Telford and Cannock respectively, are flourishing at the Telford-based measurement solutions provider.

Adam and Jake are studying for HNCs in engineering after recently completing their BTEC Level 3 diplomas in manufacturing engineering while Joe is in his second year of the same BTEC course.

They attend Telfords College of Arts and Technology where they are also taking NVQs alongside their other studies.

Our apprentices are valued members of our team and contribute fully within the departments they are assigned to, commented Fiona Siswick, Special Products Co-ordinator at Hexagon Metrology UK.

The busy firm, which holds the Investors in People Gold award, is already planning to recruit more apprentices within the next 12 months.

If you would like to learn more about this story or Hexagon Metrology, then please use the 'Get In Touch' button or call the office on 0870 446 2667 and be sure to mention Made In The Midlands.

Photo caption l to r: Gary Brice, Special Products Business Manager, apprentices Jake Walters, Joe Weston, Adam Rumney and Fiona Siswick, Special Products Co-ordinator.

Hexagon and Red Bull Technology Innovation Partnership Renewed

Hexagon Metrology Ltd — 12/08/2013

Framework contract renewal between Hexagon Metrology and the Formula One world champions.

Hexagon Metrology announces today the signing of an Innovation Partnership contract renewal with Red Bull Technology which runs until the end of 2015. This contract consolidates the strong cooperation between the supplier of metrology solutions and Red Bull Technology.

The Innovation Partnership means that aside from using production products from Hexagon Metrology, Red Bull Technology engineers are also involved with Hexagon Metrology R&D and testing, being at the forefront of automotive technology both companies benefit from this cooperation.

Chris Charnley, Quality Manager at Infiniti Red Bull Racing, said Whilst continually pushing greater volumes of change through the business, we work to extremely tight lead-times but demand the best in component quality and accuracy. Hexagon Metrology provide us the very latest in technology and support to ensure that we can perform inspection tasks in the shortest possible times, but with complete confidence in the accuracy and reliability of the results.

Al Peasland, Head of Technical Partnerships at Infiniti Red Bull Racing, added Hexagon is a hugely valued partner and the integral nature of their products and services means that they genuinely feel like part of the team. They share our passion and offer exceptional levels of support which ultimately helps us to remain competitive on track."

The level of customer service expected by the 3 times Formula One Constructor and Driver World Champions, is paramount, Chris talks of his experience with Hexagon Metrology service and applications teams: The nature of our industry demands long hours, flexibility and professionalism from the Hexagon Metrology support engineers; that service is something we have to have. Support engineers from Hexagon Metrology are setting the standards for customer service.