MicroCentric’s Evolution: From Precision Gear Testers to Pioneering Chucks
Leave a CommentWelcome to another chapter in our journey at MicroCentric. As we celebrate our anniversary, we’re excited to share the fascinating evolution of our company—from our humble beginnings with precision gear testers to becoming a leading name in high-precision Workholding solutions.
MicroCentric’s story began not with the chucks we’re known for today, but with a groundbreaking invention in precision measurement. Founded by Anton Fink, an Austrian mechanical engineer who relocated to Montreal and later to New York, the early days of MicroCentric were focused on refining measurement tools. Anton’s first patent, a precision gear tester, showcased his commitment to accuracy, even before he founded the company.
Before MicroCentric, Anton’s inventions, including his precision gear tester, were marketed through a company called Alina (see the old catalogs on the right).
Following this, he secured a second patent for a height gauge. These early innovations set the stage for what would become MicroCentric, originally known as Metrology Systems Corporation—a name that reflected our dedication to precision measurement.
Drawing from the Height Gauge Patent
The Shift to Workholding: Enter the Air Chuck
Our transition from measurement to workholding was driven by another innovative idea. In the 1970s, Air Chucks were common but faced frequent maintenance issues due to their complex design and inconsistent repeatability. Anton Fink, ever the innovator, sought to address these challenges. His redesign resulted in the MicroCentric High Precision Air Chuck—a product that would become a game changer in precision workholding.
With standard Total Indicator Readings (TIR) of 0.00005″ (0.0012mm) and, in some cases, an impressive 0.00002″ (0.0005mm), the MicroCentric Air Chuck set new standards for accuracy. This innovation not only cemented our reputation but also led to the establishment of two distinct departments within Metrology Systems Corp: one focused on measurement systems and the other on our pioneering Air Chucks. The evolution continued with the development of high-precision Hand Chucks, further reflecting our shift towards a new market.
The Name Change: Embracing the MicroCentric Identity
The name “MicroCentric” originated from our Air Chuck product line. As chucks became the core of our business, the name MicroCentric perfectly encapsulated our focus and expertise. Thus, Metrology Systems Corporation officially became MicroCentric—a name that signifies our unwavering commitment to high-precision workholding.
The Impact of CNC Technology in the 1970s
To truly appreciate our journey, it’s important to understand the broader context of the 1970s. This era marked the rise of the third industrial revolution, with the advent of CNC (Computer Numerical Control) systems. Before CNC, machining systems relied on Numerical Control (NC) using punch cards—a method that was cumbersome and prone to errors.
The introduction of CNC systems revolutionized machining by storing code directly within the machine, eliminating the need for punch cards and manual entry. This advancement brought unprecedented speed, precision, and efficiency to machining processes. However, even with these technological strides, the quality of workholding systems remained crucial. The greatest machines are only as effective as the chucks that hold their workpieces.
Reflecting on Progress and Precision
Looking back, the days when engineers manually drafted designs on large drawing tables highlight the remarkable progress we’ve made. Each drawing was a testament to human skill and precision, with every mistake potentially leading to hours of lost work. Today, we benefit from advanced tools like CAD (Computer-Aided Design) software, which streamline the design process and enhance accuracy.
As we reflect on our past, we appreciate the strides we’ve made and the innovative spirit that has guided us from precision measurement to high-precision workholding. Our journey is a reminder of how far we’ve come and the importance of continual innovation in the ever-evolving world of machining.
Thank you for joining us on this journey through MicroCentric’s history. Stay tuned as we continue to explore the milestones and innovations that have shaped our company. Here’s to many more years of precision and progress!
If you want daily updates and fun challenges follow us on our socials: