Optical Comparator Technology at Jehbco Silicones: Revolutionising Dimensional Accuracy
At Jehbco Silicones, precision and accuracy in product dimensions are paramount. To achieve this, the company employs an advanced optical comparator, the Starrett Precision Optical VB400 model. This tool represents a significant advancement over traditional measuring methods such as the Vernier caliper, especially in handling the delicate and intricate profiles of silicone extrusions.
What is an Optical Comparator?
An optical comparator is a device used in manufacturing and laboratory settings to magnify the silhouette of a part onto a screen to compare it against a set scale or the design drawing. It combines optics, mechanics, and electronics to offer non-contact measurement, which is crucial for materials that are easily deformed or damaged. The Starrett VB400 at Jehbco Silicones utilizes high-quality optics to project a shadow of the silicone profile onto a screen at precise magnifications, allowing for meticulous inspection and measurement.
Figure 1. Starett VB400 optical comparator used at Jehbco
How It Works
The process begins by placing a silicone extrusion profile on the stage of the optical comparator. Light is projected onto the object, casting a shadow which is magnified and projected onto a screen. This shadow clearly displays the profile’s dimensions and geometry against predefined scales or overlays. Engineers at Jehbco can then visually compare and measure each dimension against the profile drawings or utilize digital tools integrated into the VB400 model to capture and analyse these measurements automatically.[1] [2]
Measurement Capabilities
The Starrett VB400 optical comparator boasts a high degree of accuracy, thanks to its advanced features. It is equipped with linear encoder scales that offer a resolution of 0.1 microns (0.000004 inches), which ensures precise measurements. Furthermore, the VB400 is particularly adept at handling complex profiles and dimensions that are difficult to measure with traditional tools. This high resolution facilitates the examination of complex and detailed part geometries, making the VB400 a robust tool for quality assurance at Jehbco where precision is critical. It can accurately define radius, diameter, clearances, and angular dimensions, which are often critical in the high-quality silicone products manufactured by Jehbco. This precision is facilitated by features such as high-resolution cameras and digital displays, enhancing the ease and accuracy of the measurement process.[3] [4]
Figure 2. A silicone extrusion sample is placed on a glass platform above a light source, projecting a silhouette for accurate, non-contact measurement.
Advantages Over Traditional Methods of Measurement
Optical comparators offer several advantages over traditional measuring tools like Vernier callipers. Firstly, they provide a non-contact measurement method, thereby preventing any deformation during measurement. This is particularly advantageous for soft materials like silicone which deform under physical contact. Using an optical comparator ensures that the integrity of the part remains intact during inspection. Additionally, the magnification ability of the optical comparator allows for the detection of minute defects and ensures compliance with tight tolerances that might be missed by the naked eye.
Figure 3. Measuring an extrusion sample using Vernier calllipers. Inaccurate measurement due to deformation of the soft silicone rubber.
Moreover, with features like digital readouts and automated data collection, the VB400 speeds up the measurement process and reduces the potential for human error, enhancing the overall efficiency of quality control at Jehbco. [1] [3]
Conclusion
The investment and use of the Starrett Precision Optical VB400 at Jehbco Silicones highlights the company’s commitment to quality and precision in the manufacture of silicone extrusion profiles. By adopting such advanced metrology tools, Jehbco ensures that each product not only meets but exceeds customer expectations and industry standards, reaffirming our position as a leader in the silicone manufacturing industry.
References
- Higher Precision Blog: How an Optical Comparator Works
https://www.higherprecision.com/blog/what-is-an-optical-comparator - VisionX Inc: What Is an Optical Comparator and How Does It Work?
https://www.visionxinc.com/what-is-an-optical-comparator - Starrett Metrology: Starrett Optical Comparators
https://au.starrett.com/product-detail/VB400 - Crescent Gage & Tool: Starrett VB400
https://crescentgage.com/gaging-equipment-sales/starrett/vertical/starrett-vb400/