INSIZE M3

INSIZE M3 styli use an M3 thread size, which is a standard 3 mm metric thread commonly found on CMM touch probes. This thread size ensures compatibility with most CMM probe heads that accept M3 styli, including those from other manufacturers. The M3 designation refers to the nominal diameter of the threaded stem, which is 3 mm, with a standard pitch of 0.5 mm. When selecting a stylus, verify that your probe head accepts M3 threads to ensure proper fit and secure attachment.

INSIZE M3 stylus ball tips are made from ruby, a synthetic corundum material known for its high hardness (9 on the Mohs scale) and wear resistance. Ruby tips provide consistent contact with workpiece surfaces during CMM probing, minimizing tip wear over repeated measurements. The ruby ball is bonded to a stainless steel or tungsten carbide stem, depending on the specific model. This material combination is standard for general-purpose CMM styli used in dimensional inspection.

Yes, INSIZE M3 styli are available in stepped configurations, such as the model ISQ-01-3005-018TTR2. Stepped styli feature a straight shaft with a reduced-diameter section near the ball tip, allowing access to recessed features or providing clearance in tight geometries. The step design extends the effective reach of the stylus without increasing the overall stem diameter, which can help avoid collisions with part features during probing. Stepped styli are suitable for measuring deep bores, undercuts, or complex internal profiles.

INSIZE M3 straight styli are available with ruby ball tip diameters of 0.059 in (1.5 mm), 0.08 in (2.0 mm), 0.118 in (3.0 mm), and 0.157 in (4.0 mm), based on the product range supplied by 3G Electric. These diameters cover common sizes for general-purpose CMM probing. The ball diameter affects measurement accuracy and the minimum feature size that can be probed; smaller balls are used for fine features, while larger balls provide greater contact area and durability.

INSIZE M3 styli can be used with any CMM touch probe that accepts M3-threaded styli, which is a widely adopted standard in the metrology industry. This includes probes from brands such as Renishaw, Zeiss, and Hexagon, provided the probe head has an M3 female thread. However, compatibility should be verified by checking the probe's stylus mounting specification. INSIZE M3 styli are not designed for probes with other thread sizes, such as M2 or M4, without an adapter.

INSIZE M3 styli have stem lengths that vary by model, typically ranging from approximately 18 mm to 75 mm, as seen in the product line. For example, the straight stylus ISQ-01-3030-075TCR has a 75 mm stem, while the stepped stylus ISQ-01-3005-018TTR2 has an 18 mm stem. The stem length determines the reach of the stylus into deep cavities or around obstructions. Longer stems provide greater reach but may introduce bending under probing force, so selection should balance reach with rigidity.