Machine Tool Error Compensation

Machine Tool Error Motions

A major part of a precision machine tool system is its control system, and more importantly the ability to apply error compensation. With a stiff and repeatable base mechanical system, high resolution transducers and the application of precision metrology it is possible to accurately correct the errors in a machine tool system to give significantly reduced error motions.

By calculation of measured error motions and accurate measurements it is possible to correct for a large number of geometric and dynamic error motions that can occur in a machine tool system.

Accurate machine tool metrology and error compensation is what turns a good machine tool into an excellent machine tool. Cranfield Precision has vast experience in machine tool metrology and in the application of advanced error compensation techniques. This is made possible through our advanced CNC control system, allowing for complex error motions to be effectively compensated.

Cranfield Precision are at the 26th Annual Meeting of the American Society for Precision Engineering (ASPE)

The 26th Annual Meeting of the American Society for Precision Engineering is happening between Sunday and Friday the 13th to the 18th of November 2011 at the Denver Marriott City Center Hotel, Denver, CO, USA.

Cranfield Precision is attending the conference and will be represented by Mark Stocker, division manager.

Come and talk to us about your complex manufacturing challenge or general precision engineering related topic.

Visit our web site to learn more about Cranfield Precision - www.cranfieldprecision.com

Repeatability in Precision Machine Tools

Repeatable Machine Structure

Repeatability is one of the most important elements in precision machine tool design. The aim is to make a mechanical structure that is stiff and repeatable. Having a stable and stiff mechanical structure is the basis for a high precision machine tool.

Finite Element Analysis
of a machine element

At Cranfield Precision we design high precision machine tools with stiff and repeatable structures through advanced finite element analysis techniques and by obeying the key principles of precision machine design.


Once you have a stiff and repeatable mechanical system that will consistently repeat to a demanded position advanced control system and error compensation techniques can be applied to correct any measured errors. 


Precision metrology techniques are used to accurately measure machine error motions. The combination of a stiff repeatable structure, precision metrology and error compensation techniques produces a very accurate precision machine tool.