In the world of manufacturing, increasingly stringent tolerances are considered to be normal and the demand for precise and reliable measurement has never been higher. For this reason, laser micrometers have been widely adopted across a large number of manufacturing industries as the fastest and most accurate method for measuring the diameter of all types of products and components. Laser micrometers can be grouped into two categories; benchtop or off-line laser micrometers and in-process or on-line micrometers. 
Benchtop micrometers are a standalone solution for sample measurement for quality control and statistical analysis. On-line laser micrometers are used to measure the product during manufacturing and are often used for automated process control. Once a laser micrometer of either category becomes part of the manufacturing process, time spent making manual measurements is reduced and out-of-tolerance products are eliminated therefore improving machine optimisation, product quality and reducing scrap.
To meet the needs of the manufacturing industry a wide range of laser micrometer models have emerged to meet the various application requirements. In addition, a range of options and accessories are available to enable manufacturers to seamlessly integrate laser micrometers into their process.
Cable and Wire Applications
For the manufacture of electrical power or communication cables, on-line laser micrometers are essential to ensure the performance, reliability and safety of the final products and are used in multiple locations during the process of making a finished cable. Starting with the conductor wire, which is usually made of copper for electrical cables and an aluminium alloy for some other types, the diameter and ovality can be measured in-line on the wire drawing machine. The diameter of the wire conductor is critical as it determines the electrical properties and cable capacity. The laser micrometers by providing high-resolution measurements can alert operators to even the smallest deviations in the thickness of cables and wires allowing defects to be quickly corrected.
A laser micrometer will also measure the diameter of a coated conductor so that the insulation coating thickness can be monitored and controlled. Depending on the type of cable, the number of cores may be twisted and stranded together requiring an additional jacketing process. The diameter will be measured online with two dual-axis laser gauges before and after the jacketing extruder. The final laser micrometer will be used to ensure the jacket is of the correct thickness and the finished product is within the diameter and ovality tolerances.
All of these measurements enhance the efficiency of the whole manufacturing process helping to optimise material usage, minimise waste and reduce downtime that can be caused by manual inspections or corrections. The non-contact nature of the micrometers also means that any delicate wires are not deformed or damaged during measurement further preserving quality.
Extrusion and Hose
Laser micrometers also play a pivotal role in the manufacturing of extrusion and hose products due to their unmatched accuracy, efficiency, and non-intrusive measurement capabilities. For example, in the production of medical-grade tubing within the pharmaceutical industry, maintaining precise dimensions is critical to ensure that the final products meet rigorous specifications for functionality and compatibility. Laser micrometers provide high-precision measurements of the extruded materials’ diameter, wall thickness, and concentricity, allowing manufacturers to detect even the tiniest variations and inconsistencies instantaneously. This precise control is vital for producing high-quality products that meet performance standards, ensuring they can withstand the pressures and conditions for which they are designed.
The non-contact nature of laser micrometers ensures that the soft or delicate materials used in production are not deformed during measurement, preserving their structural integrity. This real-time quality control not only reduces the need for costly post-production inspections and corrections but also increases overall throughput and efficiency. Consequently, the use of laser micrometers in extrusion and hose manufacturing leads to higher quality products, reduced production costs, and improved operational efficiency, making them an indispensable tool in this industry.
A further application example is the automotive industry, where tubes are essential components in fuel, coolant, and air systems. Similar to other industries, automotive production faces real-time pressures due to global demand so production downtime as a result of faulty tubes or any other component can have detrimental consequences to the whole production line leading to loss of business and reputation. Laser micrometers therefore play a vital role to ensure a smoother production process by offering continuous, real-time monitoring. This capability allows for immediate adjustments to be made during production, optimizing material use and minimizing defects and waste.
In the production of hoses and pipes for the petrochemical sector, maintaining consistent dimensions is vital for withstanding the high pressures and harsh 
environments associated with this industry. Laser micrometers enable precise measurements of the outer diameters, of hoses and pipes, ensuring the structural integrity and durability are fit for purpose. This is essential for preventing leaks and failures in critical applications such as drilling and transportation of oil and gas.
Demanding conditions are often found on construction sites so any PVC or rubber hoses used in construction perhaps for water delivery or concrete pumping must meet the necessary strength and flexibility specifications. Accurate measurements of the hose dimensions help to produce durable and reliable products.
Within the food and drink industry, hoses are used for transporting liquids or semi-liquids. These hoses must comply with strict hygiene and safety standards so laser micrometers are used to ensure that the hoses have uniform wall thickness and accurate dimensions – critical for maintaining hygiene, preventing contamination, and ensuring efficient flow rates. This precise measurement helps meet regulatory standards and guarantees product quality.
Learn More About Laser Micrometers
Continuous in-process diameter measurement using laser micrometers enables manufacturers to improve efficiency and product quality. Learn more about laser micrometers through the links below:
Explore Our Range of Laser Micrometers at LIMAB UK
Our team of product specialists at LIMAB UK can analyse the unique needs of your business and provide one-to-one support to find the best non-contact measurement solution for you. Request a consultation today by calling +44 (0)1823 668633, emailing hello@limab.co.uk or submitting a contact form.
