Overview
ISO 13041-4:2004 specifies tolerances and test conditions for the accuracy and repeatability of positioning of linear and rotary axes on numerically controlled (NC) turning machines and turning centres. Intended for axes up to 2 000 mm (linear) and up to 360° (rotary), the standard refers to the measurement methods and installation procedures given in ISO 230-2:1997 but does not address environmental conditions, machine warm-up, or measurement techniques already covered in ISO 230-2.
Key topics and requirements
- Scope and references
- Applies to positioning tests for linear axes (≤ 2 000 mm) and rotary axes (≤ 360°).
- Normative reliance on ISO 230-1 and ISO 230-2 for test setup, measuring methods and presentation.
- Positioning tolerances (examples)
- Linear axis (measurement travel bands): Bidirectional accuracy A ranges from 0.022 mm (≤ 500 mm) to 0.042 mm (≤ 2 000 mm).
Unidirectional repeatability R↑/R↓: 0.006 mm to 0.013 mm depending on travel.
Reversal value B and systematic deviations E↑/E↓ are also defined per travel band.
- Rotary axis (up to 360°): tolerances expressed in arcseconds - A = 63", R↑/R↓ = 25", B = 25", E↑/E↓ = 32".
- Measuring equipment
- Recommends laser interferometer or equivalent systems for linear tests; laser angle interferometer, autocollimator with polygonal mirror, or equivalent for rotary axes.
- Reporting and data
- Test reports must record machine ID, test date/location, inspector, measuring equipment (including serial numbers), test conditions (feed rates, axis positions, temperature readings, compensation types), and statistical presentation of deviations and graphical plots per ISO 230-2.
Applications and users
ISO 13041-4 is practical for:
- Machine tool manufacturers and OEMs conducting factory acceptance tests.
- Quality and metrology engineers performing acceptance, comparison, maintenance or diagnostic testing of NC turning machines and turning centres.
- Test laboratories and third-party inspectors preparing compliance reports.
- Procurement teams specifying performance criteria in contracts and purchase orders.
Use cases include acceptance testing, periodic verification, fault diagnosis, and validating axis compensation schemes.
Related standards
- ISO 230-2:1997 - Determination of accuracy and repeatability of positioning NC axes (primary measurement procedures referenced).
- ISO 230-1:1996 - Geometric accuracy under no-load conditions (environmental and measurement guidance).
- ISO 13041 series (Parts 1–8) - Complementary tests for geometric errors, feeds, contouring and thermal effects.
Keywords: ISO 13041-4, numerically controlled turning machines, turning centres, positioning accuracy, repeatability, linear axes, rotary axes, positioning tolerances, laser interferometer, ISO 230-2.
Open preview (PDF)Test conditions for numerically controlled turning machines and turning centres — Part 4: Accuracy and repeatability of positioning of linear and rotary axes