ActionPlas Invests in Advanced CMM to Meet Demanding F1 Tolerances

Why It Matters

The enhanced metrology capability gives ActionPlas a competitive edge in ultra‑high‑precision manufacturing, securing lucrative F1 work and expanding its market reach.

Key Takeaways

• ActionPlas spent £1 million on new Altera CMM.
• New CMM measures to 10‑micron tolerances for F1 parts.
• Scanning probe enables non‑contact inspection of delicate components.
• Faster delivery reduced downtime, boosting production capacity.
• Enhanced GD&T capability opens higher‑value contract opportunities.

Pulse Analysis

The decision by ActionPlas Group to invest in a state‑of‑the‑art coordinate measuring machine reflects a broader shift toward precision‑focused manufacturing in high‑performance sectors. Formula 1 teams demand parts that meet sub‑10‑micron tolerances, a requirement that traditional inspection tools struggle to satisfy. By integrating the Altera M 20.12.10 CMM with a Renishaw SP25M scanning probe, ActionPlas can capture complex geometries—such as aerofoils and energy‑recovery system components—without risking damage, delivering data that aligns directly with CAD models and GD&T standards.

Beyond the technical upgrade, the rapid two‑week delivery and comprehensive training from LK Metrology minimized production disruption and accelerated time‑to‑market for critical components. The expanded working volume of 2 × 1.2 × 1 m enables measurement of full assemblies, while the high‑speed scanning capability reduces inspection cycles, freeing engineers to focus on design optimization and additive‑manufacturing validation. This combination of accuracy, speed, and flexibility translates into lower scrap rates and higher first‑pass yield, essential metrics for contract manufacturers serving elite automotive and aerospace clients.

Strategically, the new metrology platform positions ActionPlas to capture higher‑margin, low‑volume contracts that rely on stringent tolerance verification. The ability to demonstrate 10‑micron GD&T compliance builds confidence with existing F1 partners and opens doors to other high‑precision markets, such as aerospace and medical devices. Looking ahead, the potential addition of laser scanning to the CMM could further extend its capability to inspect free‑form surfaces, reinforcing ActionPlas’s reputation as a cutting‑edge supplier in the competitive world of advanced manufacturing.