profiliometry

Profiliometry is a measurement technique used to determine the surface profile of an object. This involves measuring the deviations of a surface from its ideal form. It is a crucial aspect of quality control and metrology, ensuring that manufactured parts meet specific dimensional and geometrical tolerances. Profiliometry can be applied to a wide range of materials, including metals, plastics, ceramics, and even biological samples.

The process typically involves a stylus that travels across the surface of the object. As the stylus moves, its vertical displacement is recorded, creating a profile of the surface. Different types of styli exist, varying in tip radius and material, to suit different surface types and measurement sensitivities. Automated profiliometers are common, allowing for rapid and precise data acquisition over large areas.

Beyond simple surface roughness, profiliometry can also be used to measure other surface characteristics such as waviness, form error, and step height. This information is vital in industries such as automotive, aerospace, semiconductor manufacturing, and medical device production, where precise surface characteristics directly impact performance, functionality, and longevity. The data obtained from profiliometry can be analyzed to quantify parameters like Ra (average roughness), Rz (maximum height of the profile), and others, providing objective measures of surface quality.