The structural materials used in coordinate measuring machines (CMMs) play a critical role in determining their accuracy, stability, and overall performance. As research and development in material science continue to advance, the variety of materials available for CMM structures has expanded significantly. This evolution has led to improved performance characteristics, such as reduced thermal expansion, better rigidity, and enhanced durability. Common structural materials used in CMMs include cast iron, steel, granite, ceramics, and aluminum alloys. Each of these materials has its own advantages and limitations, making them suitable for different applications and machine designs. **Cast Iron** is one of the most traditional materials used in CMMs, especially for bases, slides, columns, and brackets. It offers good wear resistance, low cost, and a linear expansion coefficient close to that of steel, which helps minimize thermal distortion. However, it is prone to corrosion, has lower wear resistance compared to granite, and is relatively heavy. Despite these drawbacks, some manufacturers, like Switzerland’s SIP, still prefer cast iron due to its long-term stability and natural aging properties, which help maintain dimensional accuracy over time. **Steel**, particularly low-carbon steel, is often used for housings, brackets, and even bases. It provides high rigidity and strength but can be prone to deformation due to residual stresses after machining. Welded steel components have become increasingly popular because they offer greater design flexibility, lighter weight, and better stability after artificial aging. Companies like China’s Aviation Precision Research Institute and foreign manufacturers such as DETA use welded structures to achieve higher precision and reliability. **Granite** is widely used in high-precision CMMs due to its excellent thermal stability, minimal deformation, and resistance to rust. It allows for superior flatness and is ideal for constructing platforms, rails, and guide systems. Many top brands, including Leitz and Zeiss, use granite in their machines. However, granite can be brittle, difficult to process, and expensive. Additionally, it requires careful handling to avoid damage from moisture or improper cleaning. **Ceramics** are a newer material gaining traction in CMMs, especially for Y and Z-axis guides. They are lightweight, strong, and resistant to wear and corrosion. However, the manufacturing process is complex and costly, limiting their widespread use. Some high-end manufacturers, such as Zeiss and Tokyo Precision, have started incorporating ceramic components into their machines for enhanced performance. **Aluminum Alloys**, particularly high-strength variants, have become a major trend in recent years. They offer a favorable combination of light weight, high strength, and good thermal conductivity, making them ideal for many parts of a CMM. The 6000 series aluminum alloy, developed in the U.S., is known for its low deformation and suitability for guide rails. Companies like Brown & Sharp and Zeiss have adopted this material to reduce weight and improve measurement speed. Newer alloys like CARAT, with ceramic coatings, further enhance thermal stability and reduce deformation. In summary, the evolution of CMM structural materials has moved from traditional metals like cast iron and steel to more advanced options such as granite, ceramics, and aluminum. Today, the focus is on lightweight, dimensionally stable, and easy-to-process materials. Companies like Zeiss, LK, and Tarus are exploring carbon fiber composites, signaling a shift toward even more innovative solutions. As measurement accuracy requirements continue to rise, the demand for superior materials will only grow, driving further advancements in material science for CMMs.

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