Over the years, laser micrometers have evolved to meet the non-contact measurement challenges of various industries. Today, there is a broad range of laser micrometer types, and models customised to suit specific applications. This same variety, however, can make choosing a laser micrometer a complex process.
Generally, laser micrometers can be classified into two main categories:
- Benchtop or off-line laser micrometers — used in scenarios where samples are taken to the laser micrometer on a sample basis.
- In-process or on-line micrometers — are integrated into the manufacturing process, allowing them to continuously measure objects (in production lines, for example).
What Does a Laser Micrometer Do?
| Laser micrometers provide rapid, high-accuracy non-contact diameter measurement of cylindrical-shaped products or components. This makes them essential for measuring components at critical points during the manufacturing process. |
The non-contact measurement capabilities of laser micrometers provide manufacturers with much greater control over the manufacturing process. With instant feedback on critical dimensions being measured, manufacturers can swiftly make small adjustments to the process in real time.
Benchtop Laser Micrometers Explained
BenchMike Pro at LIMAB UK
A benchtop laser micrometer is a standalone device designed for sample measurement — primarily for quality control purposes. These devices allow samples or batches of samples to undergo measurement for quality control assessments and statistical analysis.
These micrometers can be positioned at a quality control station on a factory floor (hence why they are “off-line”), where operators or quality control personnel periodically conduct precise checks on the diameter and ovality of samples. Alternatively, metrology applications requiring accuracy and precision in a controlled environment can be placed in a temperature-controlled standards room.
Benefits of Benchtop Laser Micrometers
Off-line measurement offers the advantage of using a single laser micrometer to measure samples produced by various machines across the manufacturing facility.
This approach allows for a very detailed analysis of a single component to determine its:
- Average diameter
- Minimum and maximum diameter
- Ovality
- Taper
- Runout.
Off-line measurement also enables the comparison of measured values to tolerance limits and the generation of batch statistics for quality assessment.
Off-line Laser Micrometer Applications
Benchtop laser micrometers are invaluable devices for off-line sample diameter measurement, verification and product quality check.
Case in point: a single measuring station can measure a wide variety of cylindrical components from different manufacturing processes within the factory. Operators can also conduct detailed inspections of diameter, ovality, taper, total indicated runout (TIR) and runout depending on the component being measured.
Some benchtop laser micrometers are equipped with specialised fixturing that enables the inspection of plastic tubing. These micrometers can measure parameters such as outside diameter (OD), wall thickness (wall), and inside diameter (ID), as well as variations in wall thickness of components such as:
- Plastic tubes
- Medical devices
- Glass tubes
- Plug and plug gauge calibration
- Rubber rollers
- Precision ground shafts
- Motor shafts
- Valves
- Cutting tools
- Wire
- Fibre optic and fittings.
In-Process Laser Micrometers
AccuScan 6000 at LIMAB UK
In-process laser micrometers have become critical components of production lines in modern manufacturing facilities across different industries. They offer manufacturers continuous diameter monitoring and automated process control — ensuring that products adhere to correct dimensional tolerances and intended quality standards.
Benefits of In-Process Laser Micrometers
Laser micrometers are used widely in extrusion lines that produce components with round physical properties, including plastic tubes, pipes, electrical cables and sheathing lines. They can also be used for extruded plastic profiles where the laser measures one or two critical dimensions of the profile.
As more manufacturers shift to Industry 4.0 technologies, in-process/on-line laser micrometers will play a vital role in relaying manufacturing data in real time. This helps factories improve their processes, make better products and reduce waste and costs.
On-line Laser Micrometer Applications
On-line laser micrometers are used to continuously measure the diameter of cylindrical objects during manufacturing — hence the name “on-line”. This is especially important for products with precise diameter requirements or those made from valuable raw materials. They’re commonly used for components and processes where quality is crucial, such as:
- Wire drawing process
- Wire conductor diameter
- Wire rod & bar diameter measurement
- Wire rope
- Metal tubes
- Electrical cable
- Fibre optic diameter
- Medical tube diameter and ovality
- Medical devices diameter
- Extruded products such as plastic tubes and plastic sections
- Fine filament.
Types of In-process Laser Micrometers
Laser micrometers come in one, two, three and four-axis versions.
Single-Axis Gauges
AccuScan Pro at LIMAB UK
When laser micrometers were first introduced in the 1970s, they were all single-plane (single-axis) gauges — a reliable solution for many applications at the time.
However, as the gauges started to be used on extrusion lines for measuring plastic tubes or electric cable lines, the limitations of a single-diameter measurement became apparent. The measured components can often turn out not perfectly round or have a certain amount of ovality.
Multiple-Axis Gauges
AccuScan 6000 at LIMAB UK
Measuring in two planes (dual-axis) allows the more accurate measurement of ovality and average diameter of objects.
Initially, the problem was addressed by using two single-axis gauges orientated at 90 degrees to one another. Later iterations of two-axis gauges were developed to provide the user with a more compact and elegant solution.
Multi-axes gauges take things a step further by providing a more complete, more detailed picture of the ovality and shape of round products.
Learn More about Laser Micrometers
Whether benchtop or in-process, laser micrometers play a vital role in ensuring precise measurements and quality control across various manufacturing applications.
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.
