How Hexagon Global S Green 7107 CMM Boosts Precision

When the margin for error shrinks to a fraction of a millimeter, the tools you rely on have to be rock solid. The Hexagon Global S Green 7107 coordinate measuring machine (CMM) is one of those tools – a blend of robust engineering and subtle technology that often flies under the radar. In this deep dive we’ll explore what makes the 7107 tick, why it matters for today’s high‑mix, low‑volume production, and a few practical suggestions to squeeze every ounce of performance from it.

What Is the Hexagon Global S Green 7107 CMM?

The 7107 belongs to Hexagon’s Global S Green family, a line focused on sustainability without compromising accuracy. At its core, it’s a bridge‑type CMM with a granite bridge and a linear drive system that works on air‑bearing technology. The “Green” badge isn’t just marketing fluff – the machine consumes up to 30 % less power than comparable models, thanks to optimized motor control and regenerative braking.

Designed for midsize manufacturers, the 7107 can span workpieces up to 2 m in length, 1.5 m in width and 0.8 m in height. That size envelope, combined with a travel accuracy of ± 3 µm, positions it nicely between the compact desktop CMMs and the massive gantry systems reserved for aerospace.

Key Features and Performance Specs

• Air‑bearing linear axes: virtually frictionless movement, which translates to smoother probing paths and less wear over time.
• Hybrid probe head: supports both tactile and laser probes, letting you switch between contact measurement for hard metals and non‑contact scanning for delicate composites.
• Energy‑saving controller: the machine’s CNC unit enters a low‑power idle mode after 5 minutes of inactivity, cutting electricity use without human intervention.
• Integrated software suite: Hexagon’s PC‑DMINSIGHT provides real‑time error mapping, automatic compensation for temperature drift, and a library of pre‑programmed inspection plans.
• Modular design: optional accessories such as a rotary table, vision system, or an extra probe arm can be added without major re‑calibration.

From a specs perspective, the 7107 delivers a repeatability of 1.2 µm and a probing speed of up to 300 mm/s when using the high‑speed laser probe. Those numbers may not win a headline, but in a production line where a single part is measured 30 times a day, the cumulative time savings add up quickly.

Practical Benefits in the Workshop

It’s easy to get lost in the technical jargon, but the real question is: how does this machine improve everyday work?

• Reduced downtime: The air‑bearing system requires far less lubrication than traditional ball‑screw drives, so scheduled maintenance intervals can stretch from quarterly to twice a year.
• Lower operating costs: Besides the energy savings mentioned above, the hybrid probe head eliminates the need for separate tactile and laser machines, freeing up floor space.
• Higher confidence in data: Automatic temperature compensation means you don’t have to manually apply correction factors whenever the shop’s HVAC system cycles.
• Flexibility for mixed‑part batches: Switching from a metal shaft to a carbon‑fiber bracket is as simple as swapping the probe tip and loading a different inspection program.

In a recent case study from a mid‑tier automotive supplier, installing a 7107 cut inspection time per batch from 45 minutes to 28 minutes, while defect detection rates rose by 12 %. The numbers aren’t miraculous, but they illustrate the compound advantage of a well‑engineered CMM.

Tips for Getting the Most Out Of Your 7107

1. Warm‑up the machine

Even with temperature compensation, the granite bridge expands slightly as it reaches equilibrium. A brief 10‑minute warm‑up run – preferably with a dummy part – lets the system settle and reduces drift during critical measurements.

2. Keep the probe tip clean

Dust or oil on a tactile tip can add a few micrometers of error, especially on glossy surfaces. A quick wipe with a lint‑free cloth and a light solvent before each shift is a habit worth forming.

3. Leverage the software’s error mapping

PC‑DMINSIGHT can generate a 3‑D error map of the entire travel volume. Running this routine monthly helps you spot emerging issues – like a slightly worn air‑bearing seal – before they become costly repairs.

4. Use the rotary table for complex geometries

When faced with cylindrical features that would otherwise require multiple probe re‑orientations, mount the part on the optional rotary table. A single program can capture the entire surface, cutting programming time in half.

5. Document each change

Because the 7107’s modular nature invites upgrades, maintain a simple log of added accessories, firmware updates, and calibration dates. This record speeds up troubleshooting and keeps auditors satisfied.

Where the 7107 Might Not Be the Best Fit

Every machine has its sweet spot, and the 7107 is no exception. If your operation is dominated by ultra‑large aerospace panels exceeding 3 m in any dimension, a larger gantry CMM would be more appropriate. Likewise, if your budget is constrained to under $80 000, you may need to consider a refurbished model or a simpler bridge‑type without the hybrid probe head.

That said, for most midsize manufacturers looking to tighten tolerances, shrink energy bills, and keep a flexible inspection capability, the Hexagon Global S Green 7107 remains a compelling choice.