30-Second Selection Summary
Best Value for Standard VMC/VNC Shops: Choose the T20Z (20mm carbide pad, 1.5N force, IP67, 0.001mm repeatability).
Harsh Coolant, Multi-Axis & High-Duty Automation: Choose the T30Z featuring T-SENSE's precision linear ball bearing assembly and SGS-certified IP68 sealing.
Gantry Mills & Large-Diameter Cutters: Choose the T40Z with a 40mm pad and 12mm long-stroke deceleration margin.
Complete Spec Comparison: T20Z vs. T30Z vs. T40Z
All three cylindrical CNC tool setters share 0.001mm repeatability and direct Skip Signal compatibility with FANUC, Mitsubishi, and Siemens controls. The engineering table below highlights where they diverge:
| Parameter | T20Z (Entry-Level Value) | T30Z (Flagship Precision) | T40Z (Heavy-Duty Gantry) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Appearance |
|
|
|
| Contact Pad Diameter | 20 mm | 30 mm | 40 mm |
| Contact Surface Material | Tungsten Carbide | Precision-Ground Tungsten Carbide | Tungsten Carbide (Wide Pad) |
| Repeatability | 0.001 mm | 0.001 mm | 0.001 mm |
| Total Stroke / Overstroke | 5 mm / 2.5 mm | 5 mm / 2.5 mm | 12 mm / 6.0 mm |
| Contact Force | 1.5 N | 2.0 N | 2.5 N |
| Internal Bearing System | Standard Linear Guide | Precision-Grade Ball Linear Bearing | Precision-Grade Ball Linear Bearing |
| Ingress Protection | IP67 | SGS Certified IP68 | SGS Certified IP68 |
| Cable Specification | Stainless steel conduit, oil-resistant, R7 | Stainless steel conduit + optional IP68 quick-disconnect | Stainless steel conduit, oil-resistant, R7 |
| Output Signal & Voltage | DC 24V · N.O. default (N.C. optional) | DC 24V · N.O. default (N.C. optional) | DC 24V · N.O. default (N.C. optional) |
| Contact Life | 5 million cycles | 5 million cycles | 5 million cycles |
| Target Machines | Vertical Machining Centers (VMC/VNC) | VMC, HMC, Mill-Turn & 4/5-Axis Centers | Gantry Mills & Large CNC Centers |
Three Engineering Factors That Drive Your Choice
1. Bearing Architecture: Ball Linear vs. Standard Guide
While the T20Z is engineered to deliver 0.001mm repeatability at an approachable price point for standard VNC centers, the T30Z and T40Z integrate T-SENSE's proprietary Precision-Grade Ball Linear Bearing. Rolling friction minimizes stick-slip hysteresis across millions of probing cycles, maintaining long-term accuracy even under off-center or high-frequency probing. Learn more in Linear Ball Bearings vs. Linear Plain Bearings in Tool Setters.
2. Environmental Sealing: IP67 vs. SGS IP68
IP67 on the T20Z easily handles regular mist and coolant splash. However, for through-spindle coolant (TSC), flood coolants, or submerged swarf-heavy chambers, step up to the SGS IP68-certified T30Z or T40Z — and pair with our IP68 quick-disconnect cable connector to minimize maintenance downtime.
3. Contact Pad Diameter & Stroke Allowance
Your probe face should accommodate your largest non-rotating or rotating tool geometry while providing sufficient deceleration travel. The T40Z's 40mm face and 12mm total stroke (6.0mm overstroke buffer) are tailored specifically for heavy gantry axes and large face mills.
Controller Compatibility Note: Every T20Z, T30Z, and T40Z integrates directly with FANUC (X4.7 / HDI X1004.7), Mitsubishi M70/M80 (X18), and Siemens Sinumerik (X142). See our wiring & Skip Signal guide: T-SENSE Controller Compatibility.
Frequently Asked Questions
Explore Individual Product Spec Pages
Review full dimensional specs, features, and downloads: T20Z Spec Page | T30Z Spec Page | T40Z Spec Page | Overtravel Protection Guide
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