The Garant 359500 is a self-contained digital 3D edge finder for workpiece alignment and zero-point determination on milling machines and EDM equipment. Unlike analog mechanical sensors that require the operator to interpret a dial, the 359500 combines a dynamic bar-graph display for real-time deflection feedback with a numeric readout that shows the exact measured value at 0.005 mm resolution. This dual-display approach speeds up the edge-finding workflow — the bar graph guides the approach, and the digital number confirms the measurement.

How does the digital display improve the edge-finding workflow?

Analog 3D sensors require the operator to watch a needle on a dial while simultaneously jogging the machine axes, which demands split attention and can lead to over-travel. The 359500 digital display presents a graphic bar that grows as the stylus deflects, giving the operator an intuitive, at-a-glance sense of approach. Once contact is established, the numeric readout shows the exact displacement in 0.005 mm increments. This dual-mode feedback lets the operator approach faster and measure more precisely than with a purely analog instrument.

Measuring Range and Accuracy

The probe offers a ±7 mm displacement range in all three axes — substantially larger than the typical ±2 mm to ±4 mm range of mechanical touch probes — reducing the risk of over-travel damage during rapid approach. Measuring accuracy is better than 0.01 mm across the full working range, with a concentricity adjustment of ±0.4 mm for precise alignment. The IP67-sealed metal body withstands coolant spray and chip exposure in production environments.

Contact Point and Maintenance

The supplied Ø 4 mm spherical contact point (Garant 359505) screws into the probe body and features a predetermined breaking point that sacrifices the tip to protect the internal mechanism in the event of a crash. Replacement contact points are readily available, and the CR2032 battery is user-replaceable without tools.