CMM, FARO arm or 3D scanner: which measurement method to choose.
Short answer: the CMM for maximum accuracy in the lab; the FARO arm to measure and scan wherever the part is; the scanner to capture the complete shape; and the laser tracker for parts and tooling several meters long. They are often combined.
Carbodynamic engineering team · Published on
Coordinate measuring machine (CMM)
It measures points with a probe mounted on a very rigid structure, in a climate-controlled room. It is the most accurate and repeatable method for dimensions, geometric tolerances and production inspection. We have CMMs in our climate-controlled clean room and, as Téciman's Levante (eastern Spain) branch, we also sell, refurbish and calibrate them.
FARO measuring arm
A portable articulated arm that probes points and, with a laser head, scans surfaces. It is taken to the part: ideal for molds, tooling and parts that cannot be moved. We work with FARO Edge with ScanArm HD and FARO Platinum.
Laser tracker
It measures the position of a reflector at distances of tens of meters. It is the tool for aligning and verifying tooling, large molds and assemblies. We use the FARO Vantage.
| Method | Accuracy | Part size | Portable | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CMM | Highest | Up to the machine's volume | No | Dimensions and tolerances, production runs |
| FARO arm | High | Medium–large | Yes | Molds, on-site parts, scanning |
| 3D scanner | Medium–high | Any | Yes | Complete shape, reverse engineering |
| Laser tracker | High over large volumes | Very large | Yes | Tooling and assemblies several meters long |
CMM inspection
CMMs in a climate-controlled room and measurement reports.
Technologies3D scanning and reverse engineering
From physical part to CAD model, plus part-to-CAD comparison.
CarbodynamicMetrology
3D scanning, FARO dimensional inspection and CMMs: sales, retrofit, maintenance and ENAC calibration, as Téciman’s eastern Spain hub. Ibi (Alicante), Spain.
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Send us your drawing or 3D model, and we’ll bring it to life.
We study your project with the same care you put into designing it, then send you a clear proposal covering process, lead time and price. Only have the physical part? We’ll scan it and take it from there.
What customers ask us most.
Which is more accurate, a CMM or a FARO arm?
The CMM, in a climate-controlled room. The FARO arm is somewhat less accurate but portable and far more flexible.
Can a 3D scanner be used for quality control?
Yes, to compare the complete shape against the CAD with a deviation color map. For very tight dimensions it is complemented with probing.
Do you measure at the customer's site?
Yes, with a FARO arm and a laser tracker.