Determining surface roughness is one of the more eloquent processes in precision measurement. It requires a thorough understanding of the different principles and techniques, as well as preparation for inconsistent parameters or conversions. Since the 1860s, Mahr has been making top quality precision measurement tools to supply the field of metrology. Their surface roughness testers are some of the best available. The MarSurf Pocket Surf models are not only accurate, but also come with the convenience of portability. Mahr surface roughness gages simplify the sometimes convoluted process of measuring surface roughness.
Surface roughness refers to the irregularities found across the surface of a part. Any part that has been machined in anyway has been exposed to various tools of various shapes and speeds. Naturally, some degree of surface irregularity will occur as a result of exposure to different pressures, speeds, and impact. Surface roughness quite literally refers to the bumps and dents found along a part. These bumps and dents, known as peaks and valleys, can have a very real impact on how a part performs when actually in use, and therefore measuring surface roughness is a vital step in manufacturing.
Depending on where you are in the world, you likely measure surface roughness differently, and there are dozens of ways to do so. Another factor to consider are the measurement parameter preferences of both the manufacturer and the customer. The two most common ways in which to measure surface roughness are Average Roughness (Ra) and Mean Roughness Depth (Rz). Average Roughness (Ra) is more commonly used in North America, while Mean Roughness Depth (Rz) is more commonly used throughout Europe. The algorithm for Ra involves determining the average length between all the peaks and valleys across a sample length of the surface you are measuring. This method excludes extreme outliers from the final measurement. The algorithm for Rz measures the distance between the highest peak and lowest valley, five separate times, across five separate sample lengths and then averages them. This method does include any extreme outliers in the final measurement.
The Mahr surface testers come in a pocket-sized version for optimal portability. Additionally, the Mahr surface roughness gages are economically priced while maintaining incredible quality. These great tools are built to last with a durable cast aluminum housing, and can be used to measure surface roughness using four different parameters: Ra, Rmax, Ry, and Rz. Even more, these four parameters are switch selectable, making transitioning between them simple and fast. The Mahr surface testers come with a selectable traverse length of 1, 3, or 5 cut-offs of 0.8mm/0.030”, and they are built to operate in horizontal, vertical, and upside-down positions. The probe which runs along the surface to measure peaks and valleys has four switchable positions including axial (folded), 90°, 180°, or 270°. These fantastic surface roughness gages can handle surfaces that are difficult to reach and they use an easily read LCD readout system. Finally, the MarConnect data output software has simple SPC-processing and is compatible with most other data processing systems or computers.
Surface roughness is variable depending on where you are and what you are using as a parameter. Using the Mahr surface testers is easy, accurate, and flexible. You can get whatever measurement parameter of surface roughness you need with the Mahr surface gages, and you know you are getting a precise readout. Step up your skill at surface roughness measurement with a Mahr surface roughness tester.