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Contact tool setters for CNC machines

Reduce scrap and increase productivity by accurately setting the length and diameter of cutting tools on CNC machining centres prior to machining. Explore our range of contact tool setters for tool measurement and broken tool detection.

Improve machining accuracy

The length and diameter of the cutting tools used in CNC machines are critical parameters that need to be accurately set. If these parameters are inaccurate, even by a small margin, it can lead to errors in the final product, resulting in an increase in scrap or rework.

We offer a comprehensive range of contact tool setters, engineered for machining centres and CNC turning centres. These allow automated operation with the following benefits:

  • Reduced machine downtime – Enhance operational efficiency.
  • Repeatable measurement – Achieve precise tool setting with repeatability better than 1.00 µm 2σ.
  • Reliable output – Minimise manual setting inaccuracies and reduce scrap.
  • Breakage detection – Identify tool breakage with timely in-cycle alerts.
  • Increased productivity – Automate tool setting with no specialist skills required, allowing staff to be redeployed into proactive engineering roles.

Kinematic tool setting technology

RTS tool setter on machine

Renishaw's tool setters and broken tool detection products can help improve the efficiency of your manufacturing process.

For simple length and radius checking to broken tool detection, our contact tool setters use the same kinematic technology as our workpiece inspection probes.*

When a tool deflects the stylus, an increase in resistance is registered between the balls and rollers in the kinematic assembly.

The tool setter 'triggers' once the resistance exceeds a threshold and a signal is sent to the machine tool controller. Tool offsets can then be automatically updated or an alarm raised if the tool is broken.

The ability of the tool setter mechanism to reseat after triggering to better than 1um 2σ is fundamental for repeatability and good metrology.

Proven over five decades, kinematic technology is the preferred choice for many machine builders and end users due to its accuracy and reliability.

* With the exception of our Length Tool Setter (LTS).

With the Renishaw probes we can be confident we have correct and consistent data and we are saving in the region of 85 minutes per set-up, just on tool setting.

Quality Engineered Products (UK)

Find the right Renishaw contact tool setter for your application

Recommended machine typeOperating rangeUnidirectional repeatabilityTransmission typeCompatible interfaces*
OTSSmall to medium machining centresUp to 5 m (16.4 ft) 1.00 µm 2σInfrared optical (modulated)OMM-2 or OMM-2C with OSI, OSI-D, OMI-2, OMI-2T, OMI-2H or OMI-2C
RTSAll sizes of machining centresUp to 15 m (49.2 ft) 1.00 µm 2σ

Radio - Frequency hopping spread spectrum (FHSS)

RMI-Q, RMI-QE
TS27RAll sizes of machining centres N/A 1.00 µm 2σ HardwiredMI 8-4, HSI or HSI-C
TS34All sizes of machining centres N/A1.00 µm 2σHardwiredMI8-4, HSI or HSI-C
LTSAll sizes of machining centres N/A0.75 μm 2σHardwiredN/A
APCLathes and multi-task machining applications

N/A

1.50 μm 2σ

HardwiredHSI or HSI-C

*All Renishaw contact tool setters require the purchase of a compatible interface.

Length and diameter tool setters

OTS contact tool setter on machine
RTS contact tool setter on machine

OTS

The OTS 3D touch-trigger tool setter with optical signal transmission can be used for on a wide range of tools on small to medium machining centres. It is compatible with Renishaw optical modulated receivers and can be used as part of a twin probe system. The robust and cable-free design allows freedom of table movement, ideal for twin pallet or rotary table machines.

  • Proven kinematic design.
  • Exceptional resistance to light interference with modulated transmission.
  • Direction-adjustable infrared optical module.
  • Cable-free for unrestricted machine movement and ease of installation.
  • 1.00 μm 2σ repeatability.

RTS

The RTS 3D touch-tigger tool setting probe with radio transmission is suitable for use on machining centres of all sizes and in applications where line-of-sight between the tool setter and receiver is difficult to achieve. The cable-free design of the RTS means it can be used stand-alone or as part of a multi‑probe system, enabling use in a wide range of applications.

  • Proven kinematic design.
  • Patented frequency hopping spread spectrum (FHSS), for optimal interference resistance.
  • Globally recognised 2.4 GHz waveband compliant with radio regulations in all major markets.
  • Cable-free for unrestricted machine movement and ease of installation.
  • 1.00 µm 2σ repeatability.
TS27R contact tool setter on machine
TS34 touch-tigger tool setter

TS27R

TS27R is a versatile 3D touch-trigger tool setter with hardwired signal transmission for use on all sizes of vertical and horizontal machining centres and all gantry machining centres.

  • Proven kinematic design.
  • Interference-resistant hardwired communication.
  • Cost-effective tool setting for all types of machining centres.
  • 1.00 μm 2σ repeatability.

TS34

The compact TS34 3D touch-trigger tool setter with hardwired signal transmission offers rapid tool setting and tool wear monitoring for CNC machining centres. Available as a rear or side exit version and with a smaller footprint than the TS27R, it can be used on a wide range of tools.

  • Proven kinematic design.
  • Interference-resistant hardwired communication.
  • Compact footprint takes up minimal space on the table.
  • Robust design - the probe is protected by a swarf deflector, preventing dirt and chips from entering the system.
  • 1.00 µm 2σ repeatability.

Length tool setter

LTS contact tool setter on machine

LTS

The LTS is a single-axis length tool setter, suitable for both vertical and horizontal mounting in many types of applications. As it is designed to operate within the machining environment, it is resistant to swarf or coolant ingress and prevents false triggers due to shocks or vibration.

  • Plain bearing design for the highest longevity.
  • Hardwired design featuring a fully integrated interface for direct connection to the machine controller.
  • Integrated air blast that provides effective swarf removal when necessary.
  • Robust design for operation in the harshest machining environments.
  • 0.75 µm 2σ repeatability.

Lathe tool setter

APC lathe tool setter on machine

APC

The compact APCA-45 tool setting probe, specifically engineered for the harshest environments found in lathes and multi-tasking machines. A robust and compact stainless steel body provides installation flexibility, enabling fitment in areas of the machine previously unsuitable for tool setters.

  • Rapid measurement of turning, parting, grooving, threading, and boring tools.
  • Interference resistant hardwired communication.
  • Pneumatic cover that ensures the stylus is fully protected when not in use.
  • Integrated air-bleed to help the stylus remain free of debris (including air blast port for customers who require tool cleaning).
  • 1.50 µm 2σ repeatability.

Next steps

To request more information or buy, submit a contact form to speak with your local office.

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Software that makes tool setting simple

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