Comparison of measurement procedures for evaluating thermal errors of machine tools due to moving linear axes

摘要

This paper investigates an alternative method to assess thermal errors due to the heat generated by moving linear axes. This method is based on a spindle-mounted probe and simple artifacts. The angular errors introduced by the heating of individual axes (X, Y, and Z) are obtained by probing multiple points on table-mounted artifacts. A discussion is presented of how the errors of the axes are estimated from changes in the location of points on artifacts. Repeatability testing and comparison with data taken by an independent laser-based system verify the performance. The paper describes the design of the test, sign conventions, and analysis procedure. The results show excellent repeatability and good correlation to data gathered with the laser-based system.