For precise measurements on parts, ATEC offers affordable laser micrometer rental rates from leading manufacturers including Keyence, Mitutoyo, and Beta LaserMike.
What Is A Laser Micrometer?
A laser micrometer is an inspection device that uses a rotating laser beam to collect exact measurements and dimensions of a physical object. The laser beam is transmitted from one end of a small measuring area to a receiver on the other end. The working principle of a laser scan micrometer is that when an object is placed in the measuring area it blocks the laser and creates a shadow on the receiver. The receiver calculates the time cast by the shadow to collect detailed measurements of the object.
Optical micrometers are also available for Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) and measurements. An optical micrometer measures parts by calculating the displacement difference between the measured values of light and dark edges.
Because optical and laser scan micrometers conduct dimensional analysis that's both fast and precise, they are crucial tools in manufacturing. In quality control labs and plant floor settings, part measurements need to be accurate down to the microinch. A laser micrometer rental guarantees physical analysis that is both detailed and reliable.
Choosing The Right Laser Micrometer Rental
The capabilities of laser and optical micrometers have improved greatly in recent years, but that doesn't mean each device is ideal for all testing needs. Before choosing a laser micrometer rental, consider these specifications and details:
Type
The first aspect to consider in a laser micrometer rental is which type of device is needed. There are four different types of laser micrometers, all built to measure in different ways:
- Benchtop or Floor Mounted - As the name suggests, this is a stationary laser micrometer. Users will need to load and measure the objects manually.
- Automatic or Inline - Also stationary, these laser micrometers collect measurements without the need for user input.
- Machine Mounted - Either mounted in or on a piece of equipment, these devices are often used to help with tool setup.
- Portable or Handheld - Offering the most maneuverability, these laser micrometers are also easy to use as many have a helpful user interface.
Single-Axis Or Dual-Axis
A single-axis laser micrometer measures from one direction, collecting precise measurements for thickness, diameter, and position. Only needing one entry point, the device is ideal for measuring objects with obstructions in the way. A single-axis laser micrometer is best for measuring most wiring, steel, and obstructed or moving parts.
A dual-axis laser micrometer conducts measurements from two perpendicular angles. With the extra angle, users can also measure for ovality, ideal for analysis on round, triangular, and rectangular objects. A dual-axis laser micrometer is best at measuring pipes, cables, and optical fibers.
Measurement Range
If a product is too large or small for the measuring range, a laser micrometer rental might offer little help. One model may measure wires that are only 0.05 mm in diameter, while others can analyze objects up to 160 mm.
Benefits of Using a Laser Scan Micrometer
While many products excel with collecting precision measurements, precise analysis from a laser micrometer offers some key benefits.
Precise Accuracy and Scanning Rate
Even when analyzing moving or vibrating objects, the measurements from a laser scan micrometer are exact. Thanks to its intricate working principle, the laser micrometer maintains precise accuracy on every measurement. An incredibly fast scanning rate ensures that any item can be measured with that same accuracy. Even a vibrating item can be captured by the scanning rate that exceeds 3000 scans per second.
Versatility
The single-axis and dual-axis laser micrometers already cover many different varieties of objects. Advancing technologies now allow for measurements from a triple-axis laser micrometer. The improved measurement technique allows for even greater precision when determining diameter and the other minute details. Complex shapes and a variety of diameters are also easier to measure with a triple-axis laser micrometer.
Non-Contact Measurements
The laser scan micrometer is a non-contact measurement device. When collecting measurements, the lasers do not affect or harm even the most fragile objects. Products at both high and low temperatures are also easy to analyze with the device's non-contact measurements. The non-destructive lasers also allow for measurements with incredibly high repeatability.