Renishaw PH20 PLUS extends 5-axis touch-trigger reach to 300 mm

Renishaw is introducing the PH20 PLUS 5-axis touch-trigger system for coordinate measuring machines (CMMs), launched in September 2026 as a replacement for its established PH20 head. The headline figure: over 50% more inspection reach than the original head, with a maximum working length of up to 300 mm from the centre of the A-axis when fitted with a 50 mm stylus.

Building on a proven platform

The original PH20 touch-trigger system dates back to 2010 and uses head motion technology developed for the REVO® 5-axis measurement system. The PH20 PLUS retains that foundation but adds a redesigned kinematic mount that supports longer probe configurations — the mechanical change behind the extended reach.

"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.

Compatibility as an upgrade path

Renishaw has clearly designed the PH20 PLUS with the installed base in mind. The system maintains compatibility with the existing range of TP20 probe modules — excluding the extended force module — so current hardware carries over. The system is also fully compatible with Renishaw's UCC controller, integrating the same way as the original PH20.

Supporting the new head, Renishaw has developed PE20 modules and a PB20 adaptor, alongside a new modular rack system for automatic and repeatable probe module changing. The rack mounts to an MRS2 rail and is complemented by the PH20 PLUS PCR20 rack.

Seeing it in person

For engineers running PH20-equipped CMMs, the proposition is straightforward: more reach, same ecosystem. Whether the added 107 mm of reach justifies an upgrade will depend on how often parts defeat the current head — but the backwards compatibility removes much of the risk from finding out.