Burrs on processed metal goods

Micron-sized shape measurement using a laser microscope

Burr

Application

Metal parts and processed goods are formed through the cutting and grinding of metal using various machining tools and processing methods. Typical metal processing includes "turning" (rotating a cylindrical or disk-shaped workpiece) and "milling" (rotating the tool to cut the workpiece), and these types of processing methods may leave a raised edge known as a burr on the surface. The burr is usually an unwanted piece of metal material. Burrs may have several adverse effects, preventing the component from fully serving as a connector, or causing injuries when the completed workpiece is touched. Therefore, deburring is an essential step in metal processing. In this step, it is important to accurately image the component’s shape to evaluate whether or not the burr has been properly removed.

The Olympus solution

Olympus' OLS5000 3D laser scanning microscope uses a 405 nm semiconductor laser and a confocal optical system to easily capture 3D images of micron-sized burrs formed during machining and perform accurate height measurement, enabling you to determine if burrs are present. The microscope also has superior detection ability for slopes, so you can even image burrs that have a steep inclination.

Images

Standard microscopic image of metal burr