Views: 0 Author: Site Editor Publish Time: 2026-01-12 Origin: Site
Surface Roughness Measuring Instruments: A Guide and Why Choose Mikrosize
A Surface Roughness Measuring Instrument is a vital Measuring Testing Instrument for evaluating the micro-geometric quality of part surfaces. It measures key roughness parameters on planes, slopes, and cylindrical surfaces. As a leading supplier in precision metrology, Mikrosize provides reliable solutions for these critical measurements.

Types of Instruments
Instruments are categorized by their measurement method:
Contact (Stylus) Type: A physical stylus traces the surface. Common sensor types include:
Inductive Sensors: Use a diamond stylus and differential coil for high-precision, stable signals.
Piezoelectric Sensors: Generate voltage from stylus displacement, ideal for dynamic measurements.
Non-Contact Type: Uses light instead of physical contact, perfect for soft or polished surfaces. Methods include Optical Profiling and Real-Time Holographic Interferometry.
How an Inductive Stylus Instrument Works
This common type operates on a clear principle:
A diamond stylus (tip radius ~2µm or finer) contacts the surface.
A driver moves the sensor horizontally. The stylus moves vertically over surface peaks and valleys.
This movement shifts a magnetic core inside a differential inductance coil, unbalancing a bridge circuit and creating an electrical signal.
The signal is amplified and processed. It is then filtered to separate roughness from waviness.
The filtered signal is integrated to calculate parameters like Ra (Average Roughness), displayed on the unit or software.

Key Components & Software
A complete system includes:
Sensor: Houses the diamond stylus.
Driver: Moves the sensor at a constant speed.
Processor/Amplifier: Filters and calculates data.
Software: Modern instruments feature software for data analysis, parameter calculation (beyond Ra to Rz, Rsk), digital filtering, and report generation.
Factors Affecting Accuracy
For valid results, consider:
Sampling Length (Cut-off): Must be correctly set for the surface texture.
Filter Settings: Define what is measured as roughness vs. waviness.
Stylus Tip: Must be undamaged; a smaller radius (0.1-0.5µm) is needed for fine surfaces.
Environment: Minimize vibration and temperature changes.
Mikrosize: Your Trusted Measurement Partner
Choosing the right supplier is crucial. Mikrosize, known for hardness testers, is also your expert partner for surface roughness instruments. We offer:
Quality Instruments: From portable testers to advanced benchtop systems.
Full Support: Expert consultation, training, calibration, and maintenance.
Standards Compliance: Our tools meet ISO, ASME, and other global standards.
Complete Solutions: We can address both your hardness and surface roughness needs efficiently.
In summary, surface roughness measurement is essential for quality control. Whether you need contact or non-contact methods, partnering with Mikrosize ensures you get a precise instrument and the expert support to use it effectively, safeguarding your manufacturing quality.