High Precision Alumina Ceramic Measuring Platform for CMM and Precision Metrology

Alumina Ceramic Measuring Platform Applications

• Industrial Metrology & CMM Builders

  ✅Key Advantages

  1. Stable measuring base for CMM and gear inspection
  An alumina ceramic measuring platform with flatness ≤3 µm per 600 mm supports repeatable coordinate measurements in temperature-controlled CMM rooms and compact floor-type machines.

  ✅ Problem Solved

  A CMM builder upgrading from steel or granite bases to an alumina ceramic measuring platform can reduce thermal drift of the measuring volume during an 8-hour shift, because alumina combines high stiffness with lower CTE than many metals. In one typical setup, the platform surface remained within a few micrometers of flatness variation while room temperature changed by several degrees, which helped the end user cut re-calibration frequency and avoided half-day shutdowns for geometry checks. This directly supports more stable acceptance tests and fewer field complaints on dimensional reliability.

• Automation Lines & Precision Machining Cells

  ✅Key Advantages

  1. Ceramic reference plane integrated into inline inspection fixtures
  The alumina ceramic measuring platform offers a rigid, coolant-resistant reference surface for gauging stations installed directly in machining cells or transfer lines.

  ✅ Problem Solved

  On some production lines, metal reference plates used for inline gauging gradually deform under mechanical loads and localized clamping, causing several tenths of a millimeter of drift over months. Replacing them with an alumina ceramic measuring platform reduces creep and wear on the gauging surface. When combined with stable fixturing, users can keep measurement offsets within the control limits longer, reducing the number of unplanned gauge rebuilds per year and limiting scrap related to mis-gauged parts.

• Electronics, Optics & Vision Inspection Equipment

  ✅Key Advantages

  1. Insulating, low-vibration platform for optical and sensor-based inspection
  An alumina ceramic measuring platform provides an electrically insulating, low-magnetic base for circuit boards, optical components, and precision assemblies under cameras or sensors.

  ✅ Problem Solved

  Vision inspection systems and optical profilers are often sensitive to vibration and environmental noise. Using a machined alumina ceramic measuring platform with a controlled surface finish helps maintain a stable focal distance and minimizes stray reflections from the base. In practice, this supports consistent edge detection and height measurement, and reduces time spent re-tuning algorithms after the fixture surface has aged or corroded. For OEMs, integrating such a platform into the machine frame helps keep image quality and gauge repeatability within specification throughout the equipment lifecycle.

Al2O3 Ceramic Measuring Platform Usage Instructions

• Installation

  1. Place the alumina ceramic measuring platform on a rigid support frame or leveling stand with well-defined support points.
  2. Use three- or four-point support as defined in the drawing to avoid introducing stress into the ceramic plate.
  3. Level the platform gradually using fine adjustment screws or shims while monitoring with a sensitive level or CMM probing routine.
  4. Avoid direct impact from lifting tools; use soft slings and spreader bars where needed.

• Use in daily operation

  1. Load and unload workpieces smoothly; avoid dropping metal parts onto the measuring surface.
  2. Use non-abrasive pads or shoes on clamps and supports that contact the alumina surface.
  3. Keep the working zone clean; remove chips or debris before sliding parts across the platform.
  4. For probing, calibrate styli and fixtures on the same alumina ceramic measuring platform that is used for production measurements to minimize systematic errors.

• Storage

  1. When not in use for extended periods, cover the alumina ceramic measuring platform with a clean, lint-free cover.
  2. Store in a dry, stable-temperature environment to avoid condensation and thermal shock.
  3. Do not stack heavy objects directly on the working surface; if the plate is removed from the machine, store it vertically or on dedicated support blocks.

• Cleaning

  1. Wipe the surface with a clean, lint-free cloth to remove dust and light contamination.
  2. For oily films or coolant residue, use a mild neutral cleaner or alcohol-based wipe that is compatible with alumina and nearby components.
  3. Avoid abrasive powders or hard scrapers that can modify local flatness or introduce micro-scratches.

• Misuse and corrective actions

  1. Problem: Heavy part dropped on the alumina ceramic measuring platform, leaving a visible chip at the edge.
  Solution: Stop using the damaged area as a reference, mark the chipped zone, and have the plate inspected. Minor edge chips outside the defined measuring area can sometimes be accepted; large or deep damage near the working zone may require refinishing or replacement.

  2. Problem: Platform was bolted down using uneven torque, leading to unexpected flatness deviation.
  Solution: Loosen mounting bolts, support the plate only at defined support pads, and re-tighten gradually with a torque pattern while monitoring flatness. For critical applications, use kinematic or adjustable mounts designed for ceramic plates.

  3. Problem: Aggressive abrasive cleaner used, surface roughness changed locally.
  Solution: Stop using abrasive agents, document the affected area, and evaluate roughness and flatness. If the change is localized and outside the measuring path, mark it as non-working; otherwise, consider re-grinding by a qualified shop or replacing the platform for high-accuracy applications.

Alumina Ceramic Measuring Platform FAQ

1. Q: What flatness can you achieve on an alumina ceramic measuring platform?
   A: For typical sizes used in CMMs and metrology benches, alumina ceramic measuring platforms can be manufactured in flatness ranges comparable to high-grade surface plates, such as a few micrometers per 600–650 mm, depending on size and specification.
2. Q: What alumina grade is used for the alumina ceramic measuring platform?
   A: The alumina ceramic measuring platform is usually made from 99%–99.5% Al₂O₃ grades, which combine high hardness, wear resistance, and stable electrical insulation for metrology and inspection equipment.
3. Q: What is the maximum recommended size for a single-piece alumina ceramic measuring platform?
   A: Practical upper limits depend on design and handling, but many users select alumina ceramic measuring platforms up to around 1000–1200 mm in length for single pieces, with thickness adjusted to support the required stiffness and load.
4. Q: How does an alumina ceramic measuring platform compare to granite or cast iron plates?
   A: Compared to granite or cast iron, an alumina ceramic measuring platform offers lower thermal expansion than many metals, high stiffness, and higher hardness, with an electrically insulating, corrosion-resistant surface. It is particularly attractive where temperature variation, electrical noise, or chemical exposure affect measurement stability.
5. Q: Can the alumina ceramic measuring platform be machined with threaded holes and slots?
   A: Yes. After sintering, the alumina ceramic measuring platform is diamond-machined to create through holes, counterbores, threads, slots, and pin locations according to drawings, within achievable machining tolerances for technical ceramics.
6. Q: What information is needed for a quotation on an alumina ceramic measuring platform?
   A: For a precise quotation, please provide overall dimensions, target flatness range, loading conditions, hole and slot details, mounting concept, application (for example CMM base or inspection fixture), and any requirements for inspection reports or traceability.

Alumina Ceramic Measuring Platform Reviews

• ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
  We integrated an alumina ceramic measuring platform into a new compact CMM model. The stability of the base and the ability to hold tight flatness over time gave us confidence to release the machine with a higher accuracy class.
  -- Mark Jensen – Senior Metrology Engineer, NordAxis Systems (Germany)
• ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
  The ceramic measuring platform supplied by ADCERAX for our inline gauging cell has handled daily production loads without visible wear. Having the holes and reference edges machined to our drawing simplified fixture design and installation.
  -- Laura Kim – Automation Project Manager, Pacific Precision Lines (USA)
• ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
  Switching to an alumina ceramic measuring platform under our vision inspection system reduced issues with corrosion and surface staining. The insulating base also works well with sensitive measurement electronics around the station.
  -- Hiroshi Tanaka – Quality Director, Tohoku Electronics Assembly (Japan)
• ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
  ADCERAX supported us with a custom alumina measuring platform including a complex pattern of threaded inserts and vacuum channels. The delivered plate matched the specified flatness and made our modular fixture concept easier to implement.
  -- Paolo Ricci – Mechanical Design Lead, OptiMet Inspect S.r.l. (Italy)