Measuring & Inspection Systems

Tricks and techniques for specifying surface texture parameters

ZYGO caught up with Dr. Mark Malburg of Digital Metrology and Carl Musolff of Musolff Consulting to discuss how to get the most out of surface parameters. Their years of front-line experience provide valuable insight into precision manufacturing processes, and why choosing the right type of metrology, and examining the correct parameters, are critical to controlling the manufacturing process.

Marameter 844 K

The Marameter 844 K probes form a comprehensive modular system that includes measuring heads, driving needles, measuring holders for indicators or probes, depth extensions, right-angle attachments and setting rings. Made of hardened steel, the new Marameter probes are ideal for bore measurement at the point of manufacture, offering extremely long life. The Marameter 844 K probes are available in three versions as determined by the application needs. 

LaserUltra

The 70% reduction in measurement time compared to Laser Plus is achieved through the new Analog measurement. The Analog measurement is a continuous edge scan instead of number of digital points along the cutting edge. This process also eliminates variations caused by machine standing idle, errors due to manual wheel corrections and the requirement of skilled operators.  In its place LaserUltra has increased accuracy, productivity, and reduction of scrap.

AEROS Gantry-Type CMMs

Unlike traditional bridge CMMs, the AEROS main structure of support pillars and longitudinal guideways remains static, with only the gantry beam assembly moving during measurement. The open design is extremely adaptable, providing full access to the work area during loading and unloading of parts. It is particularly well suited to SMART factories with autonomous guided carts and manually operated wheeled or rail-type material handling systems.

Inspire inspection software

Inspire’s sleek, streamlined interface offers the fastest means to access its new measurement, analysis, and reporting features for greater quality productivity. More software highlights include a new delete noise function to rapidly delete outlier data in point clouds, the addition of measurement triggers, and more data import and export options. The software also introduces the ability to create cross-sections of a point cloud without the need for a CAD model. Inspire’s learning curve is decidedly short for new and existing users with novice to expert skill levels. Hexagon offers a broad range of training materials from online videos and tutorials culminating in nearly four hours of user training resources.

iScan3D Laser Scanner

iScan3D, with integral process controller, connects with API’s Radian Six Degrees of Freedom (6DoF) Laser Tracker to accurately monitor scanner position and deliver high accuracy measuring and scanning. iScan3D completely negates user inconveniences associated with Articulating Arm scanners: operator fatigue, arm gymnastics, part access issues, and limited measuring ranges. iScan3D combines tactile and scanning measurements, giving users the freedom to measure wherever and whenever, regardless of part size and feature locations, in a single setup. 

varioSCAN II

The varioSCAN product line is ideal for applications requiring f-theta lenses, as well as applications for which these costly lenses are unavailable. In the second case, the focusing system provides a plane focusing surface in addition to z-adjustment of the focus. Besides the processing of three-dimensional surfaces, classic fields of application requiring z-axis manipulation include additive manufacturing (3D printing) and laser cutting. In many of these applications, there is a trend towards higher laser powers, the use of ultrashort pulse lasers and the demand for improved image quality and positioning accuracy.

Total Tool Runout Measurement

Manufacturing high quality, high performance tools requires the Total Indicator Runout to be perfect or minimal for overall tool life and surface finish. Runout on blanks before grinding can be achieved by either spending a certain amount of time for work holding setup or alternatively, compensating the runout in software. The latest software update of ToolRoom has an option to apply complete tool runout compensation when needed.