Renishaw's PH20 PLUS Pushes Touch-Trigger Reach to 300 mm

Renishaw has introduced the PH20 PLUS 5-axis touch-trigger system for coordinate measuring machines (CMMs), positioned as a direct replacement for the established PH20 head. The headline figure: over 50% increase in inspection reach compared to the original head.

What's new in the head

The PH20 PLUS system features a redesigned kinematic mount that supports longer probe configurations. With a 50 mm stylus, the head delivers a maximum working length of up to 300 mm, opening up access to features that sat beyond the working envelope of the original PH20 system.

The PH20 touch-trigger system was launched in 2010 and utilizes head motion technology from the REVO® 5-axis measurement system. The PH20 PLUS builds on that foundation rather than replacing the underlying approach.

Upgrade path for existing users

Compatibility is the practical story here. The PH20 PLUS system maintains compatibility with the existing range of TP20 probe modules, used via the PB20 adaptor, and new PE20 modules interface directly with the head. The system is fully compatible with Renishaw's UCC controller, and the PH20 PLUS system allows existing PH20 users to adopt the new head and reuse existing part programmes and measurement strategies.

"With PH20 PLUS, we've focused on extending capability which we think will appeal to both existing PH20 customers and those with measurement requirements which could previously not be met by the existing head," said Nathan Fielder, Product Manager at Renishaw.

Rack system and availability

The PH20 PLUS system includes a new modular rack system for automated probe module changing, mounting to an MRS2 rail. The powered PH20 PLUS PCR20 rack provides a standalone option for holding multiple probe modules and accessories.

M4S Take:: For shops already running PH20-equipped CMMs, this is a low-friction upgrade: existing TP20 modules carry over via the PB20 adaptor, part programmes transfer, and the UCC controller integration is unchanged. The 300 mm working length matters most if deep or hard-to-reach features have been forcing workarounds or limiting which parts you can inspect on an existing machine. Worth a booth visit at IMTS 2026 before committing.