Instalacja systemu FASTRACK™

FASTRACK can be installed quickly and easily on a wide variety of standard engineering materials. It is equally well suited for axes that consist of a single substrate, or various sections that are separated for shipment to the machine’s final installation – simply use multiple lengths of FASTRACK and allow the scale to run across the gaps.

Installation principle

FASTRACK is measured and cut to length from a reel, then fixed to the substrate using the self-adhesive backing tape, normally along a reference straight edge. The FASTRACK guide rails are precisely aligned to each other by a sacrificial spacer that is ripped out once the self-adhesive rails are stuck to the substrate. The scale is then fed in from either end and locked to the substrate at a single datum point anywhere along the axis using cyano-acrylate glue (alternatively, a bolted clamp is available for TONiC™ installations). Finally, accessories such as end caps, reference mark selectors and limit switch magnets are fitted. It’s as simple as that!

Cutting / laying FASTRACK

FASTRACK is available in reels and can be cut to the generous tolerances using a guillotine (also available from Renishaw). Identify the axis “measuring length” and cut the FASTRACK between 14 and 34 mm shorter than that.

For most installations, FASTRACK will be laid alongside a reference straight edge. This may be a ledge machined into the substrate, or a series of straight edges clocked-up relative to the axis of motion. FASTRACK is fitted with a strong and tough self-adhesive tape for convenience and reliability, so simply peel off the release liner and press down firmly to achieve a good permanent bond.

On large machines that will be sectioned for transport, cut the FASTRACK correspondingly. These breaks at the gaps/joins in the substrate can be up to 25 mm. In such applications, the scale will run across these gaps/joins during test and at final installation, but will be removed for transport.

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Centre-section removal

Using the tool supplied by Renishaw, the sacrificial centre section is ripped out in one smooth motion, leaving behind the guide rails. FASTRACK is designed to keep sharp edges safe, but suitable protective gloves should be worn as a precaution during this operation.

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Complete the installation

Now feed in the scale from either end, taking care to ensure it lies flat against the substrate along the full length of the axis.

The scale should be locked to the substrate at a single datum point, often at the centre or at one end of the axis. Two dots of Cyano-acrylate glue should be applied to the gap between the scale and the FASTRACK, the wicking action of the glue will draw it under the scale to form a good bond.

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Easy replacement of scale

FASTRACK is designed for use in harsh applications where damage may be inflicted upon the scale. This may be caused by the accidental dropping of a FPD glass panel, for example.

In such scenarios, the hardened stainless steel scale and FASTRACK will normally survive. Even if scratches are caused, the advanced optical schemes of TONiC and RESOLUTE™ will often continue to read damaged scale without problems.

However, in the case of a very severe accident, it is reassuring to know that replacement of scale is very quick and easy, even with minimal access to the axis. Ideal for reducing potential machine down-time.

Firstly, the datum clamp that locks the scale to the substrate at a single point, should be removed. For axes using the bolted clamp, simply unscrew the clamp and pull out the scale from either end of the axis. For axes using cyano-acrylate glue to clamp the scale, firmly grasp the end of the scale using pliers and pull firmly (if the glue has adhered particularly well, it may be necessary to sharply tap the pliers with a hammer) to crack the glue joint. The scale can then be pulled out from the end of the axis.

In both cases, new scale should then be inserted and re-clamped as before.

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