Typical applications for the IFM G4
We could produce a list of applications, which would go on, pretty well forever, however, the IFM generally excels when the requirement is to capture both true colour 3D data from the surface, coupled to full measurement analysis.
The system is related to systems such as confocal microscopes, interferometers etc. in that it is a non-contact optical metrology system, but that is where the similarities end.
Confocal and Interferometric Systems are extremely powerful 3D imaging and surface characterisation systems. However as with all instruments they have there strengtha and weaknesses. For example they are not the best solution when the surface or structure being analysed has:
High aspect ratio features i.e. deep narrow troughs or valleys
Surfaces of varying reflectivity i.e. different materials
Features with very steep walls or drop offs. In contrast to this the IFM G4 loves surfaces with a high aspect ratio and will quite happily image near vertical walls and highly reflective surfaces.
When you want to see the true colour of your sample - with these systems the image is always in monochromatic or pseudo colour, thus oxidisation, burns and discolouration are not immediately obvious.
With regard to AFM (Atomic Force Microscopy), this can be somewhat of an overkill. Such high resolution is only required for a small number of samples and the technique is relatively speaking very slow.
So in brief the IFM is superb at the following:
Measurement of steep-sided flanks
Registered true color clear evenly illuminated images
Both rough and smooth surfaces
2D and 3D measurements down to as little as 10nm
Relatively large sampling areas
Key Applications:
Tool & mold making
Cutting tools and inserts
Electronics
Pharma industries
Medical device
Automotive and autosport industries
Aerospace
Automatic inspection of welding spots during production
3D Analysis in tribology
Direct surface measurement in paper industry
Materials Science & Failure Analysis
And many, many, more - send your samples in and we will image them for you and upload the results for you to view online.
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