The structural materials used in coordinate measuring machines (CMMs) play a critical role in determining their accuracy, stability, and overall performance. As new materials are continuously researched, developed, and applied, the range of available structural materials has expanded significantly, leading to improved performance across different types of CMMs. Below are the most commonly used materials in modern CMM construction. **First, Cast Iron** Cast iron has long been a popular choice for the base, slides, columns, and brackets of CMMs. Its advantages include low deformation, good wear resistance, ease of machining, and a linear expansion coefficient that closely matches steel parts. This makes it ideal for early CMM models. However, cast iron is prone to corrosion, has lower wear resistance compared to granite, and lacks high strength. While it is still used in some applications, such as striping machines, it is increasingly being replaced by alternatives like steel weldments and granite. Some manufacturers, like Switzerland’s SIP, continue to favor cast iron due to its natural aging properties, which help maintain long-term stability and minimize deformation. **Second, Steel** Steel is widely used for housing, brackets, and even machine bases. Low-carbon steel is typically employed, and heat treatment is essential to enhance its properties. The primary advantage of steel is its high rigidity and strength. However, residual stresses from machining can lead to deformation. Welded steel components have gained popularity due to their superior stability, design flexibility, and lighter weight compared to cast iron. With proper aging and manufacturing techniques, welded structures can achieve high rigidity and precise dimensions. Companies like China’s Aviation Precision Research Institute and foreign manufacturers such as DETA use these structures in their CMMs. **Third, Granite** Granite is known for its minimal deformation, excellent stability, and resistance to rust. It is easier to achieve a higher degree of flatness than cast iron, making it ideal for precision platforms and guide rails. Many high-end CMMs, including those from Leitz and Zeiss, use granite for their bases, tables, and bridges. However, granite has its drawbacks, such as difficulty in processing screw holes, brittleness, and higher cost compared to cast iron. Additionally, it requires careful handling to avoid moisture damage. Despite these challenges, granite remains a preferred material for high-precision applications due to its thermal stability. **Fourth, Ceramics** Ceramic materials have gained attention for their lightweight, high strength, and excellent wear resistance. They are particularly suitable for Y-axis and Z-axis guides. However, ceramic components are expensive to produce and require advanced manufacturing techniques, limiting their widespread use. Some CMMs from companies like Zeiss and Tokyo Precision do incorporate ceramics, but they remain a niche option due to high costs and complex production processes. **Fifth, Aluminum** Aluminum alloys, especially high-strength variants, are rapidly becoming the material of choice for CMMs. Their advantages include light weight, high strength, minimal deformation, and good thermal conductivity. These properties make them ideal for various components, including frames and guide rails. The U.S. 6000 aluminum alloy, for example, is known for its resistance to deformation and is used in high-speed measurement systems. Companies like Brown & Sharp and Zeiss have adopted advanced aluminum alloys, such as CARAT, to reduce thermal deformation and improve accuracy. Additional features like temperature shields and sensors further enhance performance in varying environments. 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 alloys. Today, synthetic materials like carbon fiber are also being explored to meet the growing demand for lighter, more stable, and easier-to-process components. As measurement accuracy continues to improve, so too will the requirements for material performance, driving ongoing innovation in this field.

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