Profile / Surface and Roundness Machines

Profile Measurement Systems

Profile measuring tools are used to measure the dimensions or shapes of objects. They can measure the objects' size, width, height, and depth. Many different profile measurement systems are available with their own unique features and benefits.

 Some of the best profile measurement systems include:
  • Coordinate measuring machines (CMMs): These are computer-controlled tools that use sensors to measure the X, Y, and Z coordinates of an object to provide precise measurements of surface dimensions. 

  • Laser scanning systems: These high-precision measurement systems use lasers to scan an object and create a 3D model of its surface. 

  • 3D scanners: These profile machines use lasers or other light sources to scan an object and create a 3D model of its surface. 3D scanners are less accurate than laser scanning systems but can be used to measure smaller objects.

Surface Measurement

Surface measurement systems help determine the surface roughness of an object on a variety of surfaces, including metals, plastics, ceramics, and glass. For example, a surface machine could be used to measure the roughness of a metal surface before and after it has been machined.

Surface measurement systems include:

  • Surface roughness testers: These surface roughness measuring instruments are handheld or benchtop instruments that use a stylus to measure the roughness of a surface. Surface roughness testers are relatively inexpensive and easy to use but are less accurate than other types of surface measurement systems.

  • Scanning electron microscopes (SEMs): These tools use electrons to scan a surface and create a 3D image. SEMs are very accurate but are expensive and require highly trained operators.

  • White Light Interface Microscopy: These tools use white light to scan a surface and create a 3D image. White light interface microscopy is less accurate than SEMs but is less expensive and easier to use.

Measuring Roundness

Roundness measurement systems are used to measure the roundness of an object. Roundness measures how close an object is to a perfect circle. Many different types of roundness measurement systems are available, each with its own unique features and benefits. We'll take a look at the best systems for measuring roundness in a moment. First, why should you measure the roundness of an object?

Why Measure Roundness?

Roundness is a critical parameter in many manufacturing processes. It's a major factor in the function of cylindrical parts such as bearings, gears and hydraulic cylinders. Improper roundness can cause these parts to fail prematurely.

In addition, roundness is often a good indicator of the quality of machining operations. Parts that aren't properly round may have been machined with worn tools, incorrect setups or poor process control.

Roundness can be measured in several ways. Some methods are more appropriate for certain applications than others. The three most common methods are:

  • Optical comparators: Optical comparators are one of the most common ways to measure roundness. They work by projecting the image of the part onto a screen. The operator then uses a precision microscope to measure the deviation from perfect roundness.

  • Coordinate measuring machines (CCMS): Coordinate measuring machines are computer-controlled measurement devices. They work by moving a probe around the surface of the part. The probe takes measurements at specific points, and the CMM computes the deviation from perfect roundness.

  • Form measurement systems: Form measurement systems are specialized instruments that measure the three-dimensional shape of an object. They work by scanning the surface of the part with a laser beam. The data is then used to calculate the deviation from perfect roundness.

The best method for measuring roundness depends on the application. For example, optical comparators are well-suited for measuring small parts. CMMs are better for measuring large parts. And form measurement systems are best for measuring complex shapes.

No matter which method you choose, you should make sure that the system is properly calibrated. Otherwise, you may get inaccurate results.

 

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