Renishaw Extends 5-Axis CMM Reach with PH20 PLUS Touch-Trigger System

Renishaw is introducing the PH20 PLUS 5-axis touch-trigger system for coordinate measuring machines (CMMs), a move that will interest any metrology team running the established PH20 head. The headline figure: over 50% increase in inspection reach compared to the original PH20 head.

What changed mechanically

The PH20 PLUS system features a redesigned kinematic mount that supports longer probe configurations. That change translates directly into working length — the PH20 PLUS head provides a maximum working length of up to 300 mm with a 50 mm stylus. For shops that have struggled to reach features deep inside a part with the original head, that is a meaningful capability gain rather than a cosmetic refresh.

Protecting the installed base

Backwards compatibility is clearly a priority. The PH20 PLUS system maintains compatibility with the existing range of TP20 probe modules, and it is fully compatible with Renishaw's UCC controller. The intent is straightforward: existing PH20 users can upgrade without abandoning their current measurement approach.

"With PH20 PLUS, we've focused on extending capability which we think will appeal to both existing PH20 customers and those with measurement requirements which could previously not be met by the existing head," said Nathan Fielder, Product Manager at Renishaw.

Automation on the rack side

The PH20 PLUS system includes a new modular rack system for automated probe module changing, extending the head's high-speed touch-trigger workflow into module handling as well.

Lineage and availability

The PH20 touch-trigger system was launched in 2010 and utilizes head motion technology from the REVO® 5-axis measurement system. The PH20 system has been widely adopted by manufacturers globally, which gives the PLUS variant a large potential upgrade market.