Surface texture plays a critical role in numerous industrial and scientific domains. From ensuring the performance and longevity of mechanical components to enhancing the aesthetic appeal of finished products, knowledge of a surface’s texture is indispensable. Surface texture affects phenomena such as wear, lubrication, and the ability of two surfaces to fit and function together. To better serve our customers, VTT MIKES has acquired a state-of-the-art surface texture instrument replacing our 20-year-old instrument.
Why accurate measurements matter
Accurate surface roughness and form measurements are crucial for ensuring the quality and performance of manufactured products. These measurements help in detecting even the smallest deviations in form, such as straightness, parallelism, and radius of curvature, which can significantly impact the functionality and longevity of components. In many sectors, like electronics, aerospace, medical devices and precision mechanics, imperfections at nano- or micrometre scale can lead to performance degradation or failure.
Improved capabilities
Our new instrument (Taylor Hobson, Form Talysurf Laser) boasts a measuring range of 120 mm x 10 mm and can detect form deviations as small as 1.6 nm. The instrument is mainly used for measuring surface roughness and texture according to both the old ISO 4287:1997 and the new ISO 21920:2021 standards but is also capable for 3D measurements. Moreover, the high resolution allows for precise measurements of straightness and radii of curvature, groove depths and small angles, as well as threads of screws.
The instrument works in the micro range as surface textures are usually several micrometres. For smaller features in the nanometre range, VTT MIKES offers atomic force microscope services. For larger features, coordinate measuring machines can be used.
Applications in industry
The applications of accurate surface roughness and form measurements are vast and varied across different industries:
- Manufacturing: Accurate measurements are essential for quality control and product development of electronic components, engines, bearings, and hydraulic parts.
- Tribology: Measurement of tribological samples helps in understanding wear and friction characteristics, leading to improved material performance.
- Healthcare: Development of prostheses requires precise measurements to ensure proper fit and functionality.
Ensuring traceability
Traceability is a key aspect of our measurements and services. Traceability to the surface texture measurement results comes from interferometrically calibrated gauge blocks, a line scale, an optical flat and a sphere. This ensures that our measurements are reliable and can be referenced back to national and international standards.
