Proof point: public demonstrations are set for IMTS 2026.
- Reach story: over 50% more inspection reach than the PH20 head, with up to 300 mm working length using a 50 mm stylus.
- Upgrade story: PH20 PLUS 5-axis touch-trigger system is positioned as a replacement for the PH20 head and works with the UCC controller.
- Tooling story: compatibility spans TP20 probe modules via the PB20 adaptor, with PE20 modules added for the new platform.
- Automation story: a modular rack system, MRS2 rail and PCR20 rack target repeatable probe module changing.
- M4S Take: For a machine shop or quality cell already running a PH20 head, this is an equipment-decision story, not just a product refresh. The useful checkpoints are concrete: confirm whether 300 mm reach with a 50 mm stylus opens parts that were previously awkward, verify TP20 probe modules and PB20 adaptor compatibility, and price the rack side only if automatic changing will actually be used. For new CMM specifications, the PH20 PLUS 5-axis touch-trigger system now belongs on the comparison sheet when reach and controller continuity carry weight.
Renishaw has introduced the PH20 PLUS 5-axis touch-trigger system for coordinate measuring machines, positioning it as the replacement path for the PH20 head. The headline specification is reach: the PH20 PLUS 5-axis touch-trigger system offers over 50% increase in inspection reach compared with the original PH20 head, and with a 50 mm stylus it provides a maximum working length of up to 300 mm from the centre of the A-axis.
The timing matters. The PH20 head was launched in 2010 and uses head motion technology from the REVO® 5-axis measurement system.
Reach without a controller rethink
The core hardware change is a redesigned kinematic mount that supports longer probe configurations. Renishaw is also tying the head to PE20 modules, while maintaining compatibility with the existing range of TP20 probe modules through the PB20 adaptor. That gives current users a route to longer setups without forcing an immediate tooling reset.
Just as important for installed machines, the PH20 PLUS 5-axis touch-trigger system is fully compatible with Renishaw's UCC controller. It can also be configured to match the effective working length of existing PH20 head installations, which should make like-for-like replacement discussions more straightforward.
"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 is part of the package
A new modular rack system has been developed for automatic and repeatable probe module changing with the PH20 PLUS 5-axis touch-trigger system. It mounts to an MRS2 rail and works alongside the PCR20 rack, giving CMM builders and end users a defined hardware path for module changeover rather than a custom add-on.
Is this your company?
This article features your business. Claim it to add your logo, contact details, and a link to your website — or upgrade to reach more buyers.
Did you know 80% of Press Releases trigger AI content warnings? Reach out and the M4S team can assist.