Advanced CMM Technology Boosts Inspection Precision and Productivity
UK-based precision engineering specialist Rodwell Powell has made a significant £250,000 investment in its inspection capabilities, centred on the acquisition of two high-performance coordinate measuring machines (CMMs) from LK Metrology. The upgrade represents a major leap forward in dimensional inspection capacity and accuracy, as the company addresses the increasingly complex quality control (QC) demands of leading OEM customers such as Rolls-Royce Aerospace and Caterpillar.
At the heart of this inspection transformation are two LK Altera-C CMMs. Designed to handle large and intricate parts with exceptional accuracy and repeatability, the new machines enable Rodwell Powell to raise its QC standards to match the precision expectations of today’s aerospace, defence, and heavy engineering sectors.
The larger of the two, an LK Altera C 10.7.5, is equipped with a Renishaw PH10M Plus indexing head and an SP25M scanning probe, capable of high-speed form measurement and reverse engineering, as well as accurate touch-trigger probing. A 6-port stylus rack allows for seamless automatic tool changes, enabling uninterrupted execution of complex inspection routines. The second machine, an LK Altera C 7.7.5, is similarly specified and adds a TM25-20 touch-trigger module, offering full compatibility with legacy CMM Manager software in parallel with LK’s powerful CAMIO 2024 R2 metrology suite.
CAMIO software lies at the core of the system’s performance. It provides intuitive CAD-based programming, sensor integration, advanced GD&T analysis, real-time simulation, and comprehensive reporting. Both CMMs are powered by the automation-ready LK NMC300 controller, which supports a wide range of probing technologies and is designed for future integration into digital manufacturing ecosystems.
“The new LK CMMs have fundamentally transformed our inspection process,” said Andrew Rodwell, Managing Director of Rodwell Powell. “They deliver greater throughput, reduced lead times, and the ultra-high accuracy needed to inspect today’s large, high-complexity components. This ensures we can meet the stringent requirements of industries where quality cannot be compromised.”
In support of the investment, Rodwell Powell overhauled its inspection department to maximise the value of the new metrology assets. A newly built, naturally lit inspection room enhances concentration and visibility. Ergonomic workstations, enhanced LED lighting and upgraded ceiling insulation all contribute to a more productive and comfortable environment for precision measurement.
Rodwell Powell’s commitment to precision measurement extends beyond its own walls. As part of its upskilling initiative, the company has donated its previous LK Integra 6.5.4 CMM to a local engineering training centre, providing students with direct access to industrial-grade metrology tools.
Commenting on the impact of the investment, Brandon Sanders, CMM Quality Inspector, said: “Component complexity and size are increasing, particularly in aerospace and heavy machinery sectors. The ability to inspect to tighter tolerances and automate more of the measurement cycle is now critical—and these new CMMs provide us with exactly that.”
LK Metrology was selected after a detailed evaluation process, with key decision factors including UK-based support, advanced scanning technology, flexible software integration, and custom training options. As part of the rollout, LK is providing a trial licence for CAMIO OFFLINE, allowing inspection programs to be created, simulated, and optimised away from the physical machine—freeing up valuable CMM time for actual measurement tasks.
For a company rooted in legacy and craftsmanship, dating back to the original manufacture of Spitfire components during World War II, Rodwell Powell’s embrace of cutting-edge CMM technology illustrates the evolving role of precision metrology in delivering quality, consistency, and competitive advantage in modern manufacturing.
For more information: www.lkmetrology.com
