Become a Measurement Expert

Continuous training pays off

Is it really a cliché that metrologists and quality control managers always want to be as accurate as possible, or is there a bit of truth to it after all? We think there’s some truth to it. They do in fact have good reason to work precisely.

They say that up to 70% of factors that influence a measuring result can be traced back to people. This high number consists of the influence of the measurement strategy and that of the user, for instance through proper care of the measuring machine.

Your Influence on the Measuring Result

The probing method, the selection of the stylus, the cleanliness of the measuring machine and the clamping of the workpiece – these are just some examples of how you can have an influence on the measuring result. Do you know how to correctly do all of the above? We can show you:

Probing method
Select the probing method and number of measurement points
First you have to decide whether the probing method should be done by scanning or through discrete-point probing.

Scanning is preferable if the measurement involves:

Form tolerancing

Narrow tolerances

(Probably) high form errors

Capturing individual points is recommended in particular for measuring size and position deviations that exhibit no narrow tolerances (esp. large workpieces). In general, the more probing points are captured, the more reliable and useful the measuring result will be.

You will find information on a useful number of probing points for a measurement in the measuring strategies of the ZEISS Cookbook. For more information please click here.
Stylus systems
Select the stylus system
If you’re using tactile measuring devices, it’s essential to select the right stylus system. You have a number of options when it comes to selecting the right stylus tip:

Ball-tip styli have the widest field of application as they exhibit the same probing behavior in every direction. Note the size of the stylus tip: the bigger it is, the bigger the mechanical filter will be. This means the profile of the workpiece will be smoothed. This is often desirable during form measurement.

Disk styli can be used in particular for measuring hard-to-reach areas. However, this usually results in strong filtering of the surface roughness.

Cylindrical styli measure in 2D and are particularly suitable for flat workpieces such as thin sheets.

Star styli enable you to probe your workpiece from any direction and are thus frequently used for measuring side surfaces.

Additional information about selecting the right stylus system will be sent to you in April.
Cleanliness
Measuring machine cleanliness
It may seem like a chore for some people, but it’s vital that you keep your measuring machine and its accessories clean. It isn't just visible dirt that can cause incorrect measurement results - fine dust and oil residue can, too. That’s why cleanliness is essential.

You must ensure you:

Only use a lint-free cloth

Only handle metal and glass components while wearing gloves

Do not use any abrasive cleaning agents

Click here to find out more about how to properly care for your measuring machine.
Clamping and aligning
Clamping and aligning the workpiece
During tactile measurement in particular, it’s very important to clamp the workpiece. First you must ensure that all elements being measured can be accessed by the styli. It’s also important that your workpiece is neither overtensioned nor too loose. Your workpiece will then still be able to “function” regardless of temperature fluctuations, i.e. react without becoming overtensioned.

Keep in mind:

If the measurement of the workpiece is used for a function evaluation, the workpiece should be measured when installed. No forces should be exerted on the workpiece. Don’t forget: “Clamped as installed.”

However, if the measurement of the workpiece is used for production evaluation, make sure that the workpiece is measured in the original clamping, as during production. In this case: “Clamped as produced.”

The Road to Becoming a Measurement Expert

Do you know what probing methods or what stylus system is most suitable for your workpieces? Are you a precision expert?

Herbert Bux, a long-standing ZEISS Academy employee, tells you what he thinks makes a metrology expert and why continuous training in metrology pays off.

Want to Become a Measurement Expert?

We’ve put together training packages designed to help you on your way to becoming a metrology expert. The packages feature individual training courses and are tailored to your level of knowledge. How do you benefit? The packages will help you become a metrology expert and save you money compared to booking individual courses.

Metrology newcomers

Basics package

Are you a metrology newcomer who’d like to find out all about metrology basics, measuring software and about working with a coordinate measuring machine? Then our Basics package is just what you need.

Metrology Basics
Trained metrology technicians

Advanced Package

Are you a trained metrologist who’d like to learn more about the basics and functions in order to optimize your measuring processes or measure complex components? Our advanced package will teach you everything you need to know.

Metrology Advanced
Experienced metrology technicians

Update Package

Are you an experienced metrologist who’d like to make your metrology processes more efficient? First you need to be familiar with the latest standards, technologies and SW functions and be able to use them. Our Update package will equip you with all the tools you need to do so.

Metrology Update