CMM machines often need a steady, controlled environment to do their job right. But creating the right space around them doesn’t have to be a long and drawn-out construction process. In this article, we’ll break down what a CMM room is, why it matters for accurate measurements, and how a modular space can benefit you more than building one from scratch.
What Is a CMM Room?
A CMM room is an enclosed space designed to house and protect a coordinate measuring machine (CMM). Such machines use a probe/sensor to measure the physical geometry of an object, and capture these data points to determine whether a part meets specifications. As you might expect, CMMs play a huge role in quality control, especially in industries where even small deviations in product sizes can cause problems.
In general, CMMs are very sensitive equipment. Factors like temperature, vibrations, humidity, and airborne particles can affect CMM readings. As a result, it benefits many manufacturers to isolate these machines as much as possible, especially within enclosed, controlled environments called CMM rooms. These rooms help stabilize and control various conditions, minimize any possible interferences, and help the CMM log accurate measurements.
Environmental Requirements for CMM Rooms
As we mentioned already, CMMs require certain environmental conditions to function properly. Fluctuations in the environment can lead to errors, so creating the right conditions is part and parcel of the process. As a result, a CMM room will try to control the following factors:
Temperature
CMMs work best at a stable temperature, often around 68°F (20°C). Unfortunately, even slight temperature swings, sometimes only more than 1°C, can cause the materials being measured, or else the machine itself, to expand or contract, which will of course lead to inaccurate readings. CMM rooms, as a consequence, use HVAC systems to keep temperature fluctuations within narrow limits, typically ±1°C.
Humidity
Furthermore, humidity is known to affect electronics. It can also, unfortunately, cause corrosion or condensation, especially on metal parts. Most CMM rooms need to keep relative humidity around 40–60%, so it’s important that enclosures manage this.
Vibrations
Vibrations are another factor that can hinder CMM measurements. Some CMM rooms may use vibration-dampening flooring, specialized pads, or placement of the room away from busy areas.
Cleanliness
CMM rooms sometimes have to meet ISO 14644-1 Class 7 or 8 cleanroom standards, and more often need to place some limitations on particles and dust. Airborne particles can cause measurement errors, so it’s important that the rooms stay free of any lingering contaminants.
Benefits of Modular CMM Rooms
When choosing to build a CMM room, you usually have two different options: traditional or modular. Modular construction has a different approach, one that brings its own set of unique advantages:
Speed of Installation
A modular CMM room can be built and installed in a fraction of the time it would take for traditional construction. This minimizes downtime at your shop and keeps production timelines on schedule. Modular is fast because the panels are prefabricated off-site, then assembled quickly by a team within a few days.
Custom Fit for Any CMM or Process
Whether you’re running a bridge-type, gantry, or portable arm CMM, modular rooms can be sized to fit. They can also include options like removable ceiling tiles, machine access hatches, or sliding doors for large parts. (Check out our other interior options here.)
Relocatable
If you will need to move the room to another part of your building, or even a new place altogether, this is no problem with modular. Modular enclosures can be disassembled, expanded, or relocated as your needs change. This flexibility is perfect for growing business or companies that want to future-proof their investment.
Bottom Line
If you’re using a CMM, you’ll need the right environment around it. A modular CMM room gives you that control, but without the delays or hassle that so often comes with traditional construction projects. It’s a simple way to protect your equipment and get more reliable results.
Interested in setting up modular CMM rooms at your location? Reach out to the experts at Allied Modular to get a quote on new buildouts today:
FAQs About CMM Rooms
1. Can a modular CMM room be installed inside an existing factory or warehouse?
Yes, absolutely. Modular CMM rooms are often built inside existing buildings. The modular panels are brought in through standard doors and assembled on-site, and this can even be done in tight or busy production areas. One of the main benefits of modular is that it doesn’t need to disrupt your daily operations.
2. Are modular CMM rooms fire-rated or insulated?
They certainly can be. Many modular wall systems include Class A fire-rated materials and insulated panels to help stabilize internal temperatures. Fire-rated materials are useful for meeting safety codes or other industry-specific standards.
3. Can CMM rooms be designed to include windows or observation panels?
Yes, absolutely. Many modular CMM rooms can include viewing panels, full glass walls, and more. This will allow supervisors or engineers to monitor operations without always needing to enter the room.
