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The Hexagon Absolute Arm Compact is a portable measuring arm designed for ultra-high-accuracy touch-probe measurement of small to medium-sized components. Its compact footprint allows this portable CMM to perform precise dimensional inspection on workshop tables and beneath CNC machines.
An integrated base, balanced counterweight system and no-warm-up operation enable quick setup and dependable measurement directly within manufacturing and quality-control environments.
The Hexagon Absolute Arm Compact brings high-accuracy dimensional measurement directly to small and medium-sized components. Its compact design fits easily on a workshop table or beneath a CNC machine, making it suitable for inspection tasks where space is restricted or moving the component to a fixed coordinate measuring machine is impractical.
Designed primarily for ultra-high-accuracy tactile probing, this portable measuring arm combines a 1.2-metre measurement volume with an integrated base and balanced movement. Manufacturers can perform dimensional inspection close to production while reducing component handling and measurement setup time.
The Absolute Arm Compact is specialised for accurate touch-probe measurement of machined parts, tooling, fixtures and other precision components. Its compact measurement volume allows operators to inspect dimensions and geometric features directly within manufacturing and quality-control environments.
For applications requiring entry-level non-contact measurement, the arm is also compatible with the HP-L-8.9 Laser Scanner. This provides additional measurement flexibility while keeping tactile probing as the system’s primary capability.
Absolute Encoders are installed in every articulated joint, eliminating traditional encoder referencing and system warm-up. The operator can position the arm, connect the measurement system and begin inspecting components without waiting for a lengthy preparation process.
This immediate readiness is especially valuable when measurements must be performed inside or beside CNC machining centres, where access time may be limited.
An integrated base and innovative counterweight balance system provide stability without permanently fixing the arm to a work surface. The system can be placed where measurement is required and repositioned between inspection tasks.
This configuration supports smooth, controlled movement during measurement while helping the operator reach features around the component. A purpose-designed, shock-resistant carrying case protects the measuring arm and its equipment during transportation.
Ergonomic handling, interactive features and intelligent interfaces simplify setup and measurement workflows, helping operators work efficiently in production environments.
The Absolute Arm Compact functions as a highly portable CMM for dimensional measurement close to production. Its compact footprint makes it suitable for workshop tables, inspection stations and confined manufacturing areas where larger metrology equipment may be difficult to install.
Wi-Fi connectivity and hot-swappable batteries support continuous, cable-free measurement. Compatibility with metrology data and asset-management solutions also enables real-time equipment monitoring, including arm health and performance.
The measuring arm has an IP54 protection rating, providing protection against dust and water ingress in demanding manufacturing environments. It is designed to operate within temperatures from +5°C to +45°C, supporting measurement outside a temperature-controlled inspection room.
Its robust construction and industrial protection make it suitable for dimensional inspection in workshops, machining areas and quality-control departments.
Probing performance is certified according to ISO 10360-12:2016, the standard for articulated arm coordinate measuring machines. Optional certification according to ISO 10360-2 is available for organisations planning to use the arm alongside a conventional fixed CMM.
This provides traceable measurement confidence for manufacturers working with controlled inspection processes and documented quality requirements.
The system can support precision measurement tasks including:
| Specification | Official value |
|---|---|
| Measurement volume | 1.2 m |
| Accuracy, EUNI | From 0.018 mm |
| Available series | 83 Series and 85 Series |
| Protection class | IP54 |
| Operating temperature | +5°C to +45°C |
| Probing certification | ISO 10360-12:2016 |
| Optional certification | ISO 10360-2 |
| Weight | From 12.1 kg |
| Optional scanner | HP-L-8.9 Laser Scanner |
*Accuracy and weight depend on the selected system configuration.
The Hexagon Absolute Arm Compact is designed for manufacturers that require accurate, repeatable dimensional measurement without moving every component to a fixed inspection system. Its compact measurement volume, immediate start-up, integrated base and industrial protection provide a practical solution for portable quality inspection around CNC machines and workshop environments.
A range of interchangeable stylus tips allows the probe to suit different component features and measurement tasks. Each tip uses an M3 thread and is compatible with hard-contact body probes and touch-trigger probes.
Robust, rust-resistant base stations provide a stable and practical setup for shop-floor measurement. Lockable storage keeps frequently used tools secure and accessible, while integrated features support efficient daily inspection workflows.
A selection of bases, tripods and stands, including a convenient vacuum mount, provides secure and flexible positioning for reliable measurement in different working environments.
Certified length bars support portable measuring arm accuracy verification, length checkouts and performance evaluation according to ISO 10360-12, ASME B89.4.22 and VDI/VDE standards. Certified spheres are used to calibrate contact probes and laser scanners or verify their measurement accuracy.
Batteries, power supplies, cables and adaptors provide the reliable power and connectivity needed to keep Absolute Arms operating. Select accessories according to RA7 or RA8 compatibility to match the correct control pack configuration.
Dust covers are available for all Absolute Arm models and sizes, providing protection while the arm is in its rest position. Tube holders securely support tubes during measurement.
Chucks, base plates, clamps, pillars, Swift-Fix kits and other workholding solutions securely position components for repeatable, precise measurement with CMMs and portable measuring arms.
