RENISHAW LAUNCHES LONGER-LENGTH FORTIS™ ENCODER SCALES

Renishaw now offers longer sealed encoder scale lengths to support the development of large machine tools.

Applications for new longer-length FORTiS encoders include machine tools for making moulds and dies for large casting applications, vertical turning lathes (VTLs) and large gantry type machines.

Giga casting, also known as mega casting, is an aluminium die casting technology that is being used by the automotive industry for casting large components, such as chassis modules which would traditionally be assembled from multiple stamped steel parts welded together. In this application, a molten aluminium alloy is forced under high pressure into a reusable mould (die). The casting is then cooled until it solidifies.

Large CNC machines are used at multiple stages throughout the commissioning, maintenance and ongoing operation of the mega casting process. One stage is the production of dies for the giga press, which requires accurate, high-precision machining, with a particular focus on process stability.

Longer FORTiS enclosed encoder scales can help to optimise the performance of these large machine tools.




VTLs handle massive workpieces, often several metres in diameter. Precision motion control and closed-loop position feedback is important when creating intricate contours or critical features that require multiple motion axes to be carefully interpolated together.

Longer FORTiS encoder scales are particularly valuable for dual ram systems as both turning heads can use the same scale, which simplifies mechanical design and improves machining quality.

With customers increasing their requirements for higher precision whilst controlling costs, the FORTiS linear encoder meets these demands due to its high performance and durability.

The FORTiS™-N encoder, available with measuring lengths from 70 mm to 2040 mm, features a narrower cross-section extrusion and a more compact readhead to enable installations in confined spaces. This model can be mounted directly to a machined surface via two end cap mounting holes or a mounting spar for greater rigidity.