Renishaw Launches PH20 PLUS with 300 mm Inspection Reach

Renishaw has introduced the PH20 PLUS 5-axis touch-trigger system for co-ordinate measuring machines, launched in September 2026 as a direct replacement for the PH20 head. The headline figure: over 50% more inspection reach, with a maximum working length of up to 300 mm from the centre of the A-axis when fitted with a 50 mm stylus. The original PH20 has been in service since 2010, built on head motion technology developed for the REVO® 5-axis measurement system, and the PLUS variant is aimed squarely at extending that platform rather than reinventing it.

Where the Reach Comes From

The gain is mechanical, not cosmetic. A redesigned kinematic mount in the A-axis supports longer and heavier probe configurations, delivering an additional 107 mm of reach. That matters for features deep inside parts and in hard-to-access areas — geometries that previously fell outside the working envelope of the existing head.

New PE20 modules, based on the TP20 probe system, feature the larger kinematic mount for direct interface with the PH20 PLUS head. For shops that don't want to replace their probe inventory, the PB20 adaptor allows existing TP20 probe modules to be reused, with one exception: the extended force module is not supported.

Upgrade Path Without the Disruption

Renishaw's pitch to existing users is continuity. The PH20 PLUS integrates with the UCC controller in the same way as the original system, can be configured to match the effective working length of existing PH20 installations, and supports reuse of established part programmes and measurement strategies.

"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.

A new modular rack system rounds out the package, providing automatic and repeatable probe module changing. It mounts to an MRS2 rail, which can be installed on the CMM bed or directly onto the machine frame.

Seeing It in Person

The PH20 PLUS 5-axis touch-trigger system will be demonstrated at IMTS 2026 on the booths of various CMM manufacturers, with Renishaw staff available at Quality Assurance booths 134314 and 134524.

For manufacturers already running PH20 systems, the calculation is straightforward: more reach, same programmes, same controller. Whether the added working length justifies the upgrade will depend on how often parts are currently pushing the limits of access — but the barrier to finding out is deliberately low.