Renishaw Unveils PH20 PLUS 5-Axis Touch-Trigger System with 300 mm Inspection Reach

Renishaw has introduced the PH20 PLUS 5-axis touch-trigger system for coordinate measuring machines (CMMs), announced in September 2026. The headline figure: with a 50 mm stylus, the new head delivers a maximum working length of up to 300 mm from the centre of the A-axis — an increase of over 50% in inspection reach compared to the original PH20 head.

Extending a Proven Platform

The original PH20 touch-trigger system was launched in 2010 and utilizes head motion technology from the REVO® 5-axis measurement system. The PH20 PLUS builds on that foundation rather than replacing it outright. A redesigned kinematic mount supports longer probe configurations, aimed squarely at improving access to features deep inside parts and in hard-to-access areas.

"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.

The additional 107 mm of reach is the practical payoff — a meaningful expansion of the accessible measurement volume for parts that previously pushed the original head beyond its limits.

Protecting Existing Investment

Compatibility is central to the upgrade pitch. The PH20 PLUS system maintains compatibility with the existing range of TP20 modules, excluding the extended force module, and can be configured to match the effective working length of existing PH20 system installations. That simplifies replacement decisions for shops unwilling to rewrite established measurement routines. The system is also fully compatible with Renishaw's UCC controller and integrates in the same way as the original PH20 system, making it a direct, drop-in replacement for existing CMM installations.

Automated Module Changing

A new modular rack system has been developed to support automatic and repeatable probe module changing with the PH20 PLUS head. The rack mounts to an MRS2 rail, and the lineup includes the PH20 PLUS PCR20 rack alongside the PB20 adaptor for customers retaining existing TP20 probe modules. New PE20 modules, based on the TP20 probe system, interface directly with the PH20 PLUS head.

Where to See It