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Measuring Instrument Overview

What is a Surface Roughness Measuring Machine?

  • Fine surface irregularities significantly impact appearance quality, abrasion resistance, frictional properties, and sealing properties. Surface roughness measuring machines quantify these irregularities by tracing the surface with a sharp-tipped tactile needle and calculating the "roughness parameter." These machines are available in two types: stationary models for precise, fixed-location measurements, and portable models for on-site use. They can measure various parameters, including surface finish quality, abrasion resistance, frictional properties, and sealing surface properties, providing essential data for quality control and performance evaluation.
  • Surface roughness measuring machines are used to calculate the roughness parameter, providing precise measurements of surface irregularities.
  • There are two types of surface roughness measuring machines: stationary models for fixed-location measurements and portable models for easy transport.

Items Measurable with a Surface Roughness Measuring Machine

Key Point: A surface roughness measuring machine can also measure fine shape

System Configuration: Portable Models

 

System Configuration: Stationary Models

Benefits of Implementation

  • Capable of measuring and quantifying surface properties
    ・i.e.:Surface roughness, surface waviness, appearance quality, etc.
  • Capable of accurately evaluating fine shapes
    ・i.e.:Step, pitch, burr height, scratch shape, etc.
  • Capable of measuring the surface roughness of large, heavy objects that cannot be mounted on a measuring machine. (Portable models)
    ・i.e.:Measuring surface roughness while chucked into a processing machine.
            Ability to measure surface roughness of outdoor structures such as bridges.
  • Capable of automatically measuring multiple locations with precision
    ・i.e.:Enables continuous measurement at multiple locations by integrating electric stages.
            Capable of performing unattended continuous measurements when integrated with a transport device.

Points to Consider When Selecting a Model

  • Portable or Stationary
  • Measuring machine size and electric specifications
    ・Trace length, measurement height, stage size.
  • Measurement content

  ・Is it necessary to measure waviness and straightness?

  ・Need to evaluate fine shape?

  ・Need non-contact measurement?

 

  • Can also be used as a contour shape measuring machine
    ・Certain models are capable of measuring both surface roughness and contour shape with a single machine.
  • Installation environment
    ・Vibration affects the measurement results. It may be necessary to install a vibration isolation table.

Need help solving a measurement problem? Contact us anytime!

Related Solutions and Applications

FORMTRACER Avant Series - Surface Roughness and Contour Measuring Instrument

The FORMTRACER Avant series offers versatile models that simplify setup and alignment, reduce workpiece securing time, and allow seamless conversion between contour and surface roughness measurement by retrofitting detectors after installation, ensuring precise measurements even in narrow areas.

SJ-410 Series - Compact Surface Roughness Instrument

 

.A compact surface roughness instrument with analysis functions comparable to those of stationary surface roughness instruments. With a wide selection of stylus shapes to choose from, this model supports special forms at a low cost. It can also evaluate minute steps/depths.

Surftest SJ-220 Series - Portable Surface Roughness Tester

 

The Surftest SJ-220 is a best-selling portable surface roughness tester designed for on-site use. This compact model features a large color LCD screen and a small measuring unit, providing convenience and efficiency for roughness measurements in any location.

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© 2025 Mitutoyo America Corporation.

All rights reserved.