Set standards

Profitech manufactures the modular 3D coordinate measuring machines of the AIM series. These are suitable, among other things, for highly precise components from electronics and stamping technology or from fine mechanics. (Image: Dr. Erich TRETTER GmbH + Co.)

For highly precise axis positioning, the ball screw drives from Dr. TRETTER are used. (Image: Dr. Erich TRETTER GmbH + Co.)

The precision and long-term stability of these mechanically stressed assemblies during operation play a crucial role in the overall design of the measuring machines. (Image: Dr. Erich TRETTER GmbH + Co.)

Ralf Teuchert, Managing Partner of Profitech IMT GmbH: "We expect not only top products from our suppliers but also punctual deliveries and excellent consulting." (Image: Dr. Erich TRETTER GmbH + Co.)

Profitech Industrial Measurement Technology GmbH in Saarbrücken is one of the leading specialist companies for coordinate measuring technology and multisensor technology. The Saarlanders offer cross-manufacturer services in the field of industrial measurement technology and develop OEM components as well as software for optical and tactile coordinate measuring technology. In doing so, Profitech works closely with renowned suppliers. To achieve smooth operation characteristics and precise axis positioning in sensitive and high-precision systems, the specialists rely on durable ball screw drives from Dr. TRETTER. In case of service, the supplier ensures quick availability of these mechanically highly stressed components.

"Measure everything that can be measured, and make measurable everything that cannot be measured": The saying originates from the Greek physicist, mathematician, and mechanic Archimedes. However, these words could just as well come from Ralf Teuchert, because measurement is his passion. He is the managing partner of Profitech IMT GmbH in Saarbrücken, and everything in his and his 35 employees' daily work revolves around this topic. "We undertake, on a project basis, optical, multisensor, and tactile measurement technology for small and medium-sized companies as well as large corporations from the electronics industry, automotive, medical, or aerospace technology," he says. His employees also service and calibrate the cross-manufacturer 3D coordinate measuring machines of Profitech's international customers. For this purpose, the specialists in Saarbrücken have a certified and accredited testing and calibration laboratory, as well as additional laboratories in Germany and India.

"In addition to our own measuring devices, we also have various measuring devices from renowned providers in our program. Furthermore, we develop and manufacture OEM system components in the high-end range for multisensor measurement technology together with and for partner companies," describes Teuchert. This includes the Mahr Group based in Göttingen – a globally leading manufacturer of length measurement, form, and surface measuring devices.

Top quality and punctual delivery

"For years, we have been advising and supporting Mahr customers worldwide," reports Teuchert. "And since 2016, we have been producing the modular 3D coordinate measuring machines of the AIM (Advanced Industrial Multisensor) series based on the multisensor concept of the market leader." The system is suitable, among other things, for highly precise components from electronics and stamping technology or from fine mechanics.

In Saarbrücken, Profitech manufactures the hardware for electronics and sensors and also assembles the complete systems here. For the production of individual machine components, the specialist collaborates with various experienced manufacturing companies. Additionally, there is a network of selected suppliers. "For each system, we install components with the best price-performance ratio," says Teuchert. "But we not only expect top products, but also reliable delivery and excellent consulting." Ideally, the suppliers support Profitech in product development with their expertise. Among these partners is Dr. TRETTER from Rechberghausen in Swabia. As drive and guide units for the various axes, the manufacturer and importer supplies ground ball screw drives with machined ends.

Vibration-free and precise guiding systems

The ball screw drive converts rotary motion into linear movement. It consists of a spindle, a nut with a ball recirculation system, and balls as rolling elements. "Unlike rolled spindles, the ground ones are pre-tensioned and thus free of play or with very minimal play," describes Manuel Lauppe, Technical Sales at Dr. TRETTER. The balls roll in a two-point contact within the races of the spindle and nut. "The preload results in favorable spring behavior," says Lauppe. This reduces the deformation between the ball and the raceway under load compared to non-preloaded nuts. "The precision and long-term stability of these mechanically stressed assemblies play a crucial role in our overall design of the measurement machines and their interaction with sensors and controllers," explains Thomas Hohmann, responsible service manager at Profitech.

In the past, rolled ball screw drives from different manufacturers were installed. Some of these components did not meet the required quality and deformed significantly faster. This caused vibrations in the machine, which could negatively affect the uniformity and thus the positioning accuracy of the axes. "The precise and durable ball screw drives from Dr. TRETTER, on the other hand, enable a harmonious coordination between drive wheel and guide units, combined with balanced real-time control behavior. This guarantees smoother operation with precise axis positioning and high travel speeds," Hohmann explains.

Available in case of service

With the products from Dr. TRETTER, Profitech is well equipped. But one more thing sets the supplier apart: availability. "Due to the high service life of the components, preventive measures are usually planned twelve months in advance. However, if the machine fails because service intervals were neglected, a quick and immediate response is essential," says Hohmann. Dr. TRETTER often produces special dimensions overnight for Profitech. For the AIM multisensor measuring devices, the specialists rely on the logistical and quality performance of their supplier. "This allows us to provide guarantees to our customers regarding quality and availability," says Teuchert. The measurement technicians thus avoid product and warranty risks. For a mid-sized manufacturer with a global orientation, facing tough competition, this is decisive for competitiveness.