Mikronivå

Mikronivå refers to the scale and techniques associated with measurements and fabrication in the micrometer range. The term is used in engineering, manufacturing, and science to describe features, tolerances, and processes that are visible under optical or electron-based methods and require high precision. It lies between macroscopic production and nanotechnology.

In practice, mikronivå usually implies dimensional tolerances from a few micrometers down to sub-millimeter features. Some applications demand sub-micron or nanometer-scale control for critical dimensions. Achieving this requires environmental stability and high-precision instrumentation, as well as careful calibration and traceability to standards.

Metrology tools for mikronivå include coordinate measuring machines with high-resolution probes; optical, interferometric and confocal profilometry; scanning electron microscopes; atomic force microscopes; and surface topography instruments such as white-light interferometers. Fabrication methods at mikronivå encompass micro-machining, lithography, micro-milling, and precision finishing, often combined with cleanroom processing and strict process control.

Applications of mikronivå span microelectronics, MEMS, photonics, optics, biomedical devices, and micro-mechanical components. In research and production, mikronivå is essential for characterizing surface finish, waviness, form accuracy, and other geometrical tolerances. Ensuring accuracy involves calibration, traceability to SI units, environmental control, vibration isolation, and adherence to international metrology standards where applicable.