ISO 10360 and CMM Performance Testing

In the world of manufacturing and metrology, precision is the name of the game. Whether you’re creating delicate medical devices, engineering aerospace components, or crafting intricate jewellery, ensuring that your products meet exacting standards is crucial. This is where ISO-10360 jumps in as the unsung hero, helping you ensure everything is as precise as a laser-guided pizza cutter. But what exactly is ISO-10360, and why do you need it? Let’s dive in and demystify this performance test standard.

What is ISO-10360?

ISO 10360, our precision trailblazer, burst onto the scene in the late 1990s, a time when industries were dancing to the beat of innovation. Imagine a world buzzing with excitement, where the need for standardised measurements was more evident than ever. As part of the International Organization for Standardisation (ISO), formed in 1947, ISO 10360 became the go-to guide for evaluating coordinate measuring machines (CMMs). It brought worldwide precision into harmony, making sure that CMMs from all over the world followed the same precise rhythm and continues to do so.

Now, when we dive into ISO-10360, it’s not just one single test: it’s a whole group of tests. Here’s the full list of ISO bits and bobs that have something to do with ISO-10360’s performance tests for Coordinate Measuring Systems (CMS):

• Part 1: Vocabulary
• Part 2: CMMs used for measuring linear dimensions
• Part 3: CMMs with the axis of a rotary table as the fourth axis
• Part 4: CMMs used in scanning measuring mode
• Part 5: CMMs using single and multiple stylus contacting probing system
• Part 6: Estimation of errors in computing of Gaussian associated features
• Part 7: CMMs equipped with imaging probing systems
• Part 8: CMMs with optical distance sensors
• Part 9: CMMs with multiple probing systems
• Part 10: Laser trackers for measuring point-to-point distances
• Part 12: Articulated arm coordinate measuring machines (CMM)

So how do you keep track of what test was performed? Well, the tests are always labelled in the same way with a revision date and what version of the test was performed. Here’s an example of a part 5 test that applies to “CMMs using single and multiple stylus contacting probing system”:

Manufacturers like to keep things consistent by using the same convention when they lay out their machine specs, this helps us keep on top of what performance standards are adhered too. Here is a prime example of a Hexagon CMM data sheet, talking about performance specifications:

ISO-10360 isn’t your run-of-the-mill standard; it’s more like a continual performance review for your trusty coordinate measuring machines (CMMs). Plus, it’s not just a dry list of rules; it’s more like a comprehensive check-up to make sure your CMMs are giving it their all.

Why Do You Need ISO-10360’s Performance Test?

When we’re thinking about getting a new CMM, what really matters is how well it performs, right? We want to know if this shiny new gadget can handle the nitty-gritty, measuring parts down to the tiniest details. But why do we need this test?

1 – Quality Assurance

In some cases, we’re talking about life-changing medical devices, so everything needs to be pinpoint precise. ISO-10360 serves as the gatekeeper, diligently ensuring that our CMMs meet the stringent standards essential for every industry. It’s a bit like a rigorous audition process to find out if your CMM is up to the task.

2 – Consistency

In the world of manufacturing, think of it as a building project where every brick must fit perfectly into place. ISO-10360 steps in like a skilled architect, ensuring that CMMs provide consistently accurate measurements, minimising errors, and the subsequent demand for corrections.

3 – Cost-Efficiency 

While investing in ISO-10360 compliant CMMs may seem like an additional expensive, it truly is an investment in efficiency. A compliant CMM will minimise costly errors, resulting in fewer revisions, less resource wastage and ultimately, improved profitability.

4 – Compliance

Some industries take precision super seriously (understandably so) and they’ve made ISO-10360 the law of the land when it comes to accuracy. So, if you’re in one of those industries, ISO-10360 is your friendly rule enforcer, making sure you’re on the right side of the accuracy law.

In a world where precision rules the roost, ISO-10360 is the trusty sidekick we need, setting the standards for coordinate measuring machines. Whether you’re designing the future, or crafting something out-of-this-world, ISO-10360’s got your back! So, let’s make the world more precise, one joyful measurement at a time!

All Status CMM’s are performance tested according to the industry standard ISO 10360. Our used CMMs are refurbished, retrofitted, and repainted to look AND more importantly, perform as good as new for a fraction of the cost. This is made possible thanks to our long-standing partnership with Hexagon Manufacturing Intelligence. Find out more: https://status-cmm.co.uk/products/used-cmms/automatic/

Need more advice on CMM performance testing to ISO standards? Our team of metrology experts are more than happy to help. Simply give us a call on 0115 939 2228 or email info@status-cmm.co.uk.