The new partnership will provide GF Machining with access to Sensofar Metrology's S line of surface metrology systems. (Image courtesy of Sensofar Metrology.)

The addition of these systems is expected to assist in the development of advanced nano-texturing methods that can be used to produce specific surfaces that meet precise functional or specific esthetic requirements.

These nano-texturing methods utilize both micro- and nano-manufacturing technologies including ultrashort pulsed (ultrafast) laser and EDM.

The new metrology system will allow GF Machining Solutions to reverse engineer natural surface textures down to nano-feature level. It will also enable the company to chart the entire production process of artificial surfaces manufactured with these textures, from the micromachining of the mold to the degree of replication achieved in the molding process.

Carbon matting surface replicated using an ultrafast laser system. (Image courtesy of Sensofar Metrology.)

The S neox platform employs three complementary measurement techniques confocal, interferometry and focus variation (FV) in a single sensor head. This enables users to explore new micro- and nano-texturing approaches across a broad range of scales and structures. Measurement reports will fall within the 3D surface texture parameters defined by ISO 25178. The package for GF Machining will also include custom hardware and software.

GF Machining has employed FV 3D metrology systems before, but expects the new metrology system to provide more advanced surface texturing approaches.

The two companies will jointly demonstrate the new metrology systems at several trade events and workshops in the automotive, optical, medical, micromachining and semiconductor sectors. Additionally, any GF Machining-qualified Sensofar systems sold because of the strategic partnership will be delivered and supported through Sensofars existing global network of distribution and service channels.

For more information, visit the websites for GF Machining Solutions and Sensofar Metrology.

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GF Machining Incorporates Surface Metrology for Nano-Texturing - ENGINEERING.com