Hardness Tester: Accurate Material Hardness Analysis for Heat-Treated Metals

Surface roughness refers to the micro irregularities on a material’s surface, quantified by parameters such as Ra (arithmetic mean deviation), Rz (maximum height of the profile), and Rq (root mean square deviation). These measurements, typically ranging from nanometers to micrometers, critically influence a part’s performance affecting friction, wear resistance, corrosion susceptibility, and aesthetic appeal across industries. In manufacturing, surface roughness is controlled through machining processes: grinding achieves Ra values as low as 0.025μm, while turning may produce Ra 1.6 6.3μm, depending on tool geometry and cutting parameters. Measurement is performed using contact profilometers (stylus based) for high accuracy or optical interferometers for non destructive analysis, with standards like ISO 4287 and ASME B46.1 providing consistent evaluation criteria. For functional components, such as bearing surfaces, low roughness (Ra < 0.8μm) reduces friction and extends service life, while higher roughness (Ra 3.2 12.5μm) may be acceptable for non critical structural parts. WondersunM offers surface roughness testers with advanced sensors that can measure Ra, Rz, and 13 other parameters, featuring touchscreen interfaces and data logging capabilities for quality control. These instruments are used in automotive (cylinder bores), aerospace (turbine blades), and medical device (implants) manufacturing, ensuring compliance with design specifications. Properly managed surface roughness also impacts coating adhesion, sealing effectiveness, and fatigue strength, making it a key factor in product reliability and performance.