Optical Comparators

Optical comparators are designed to work in a normal workshop environment but it is important to locate the unit as far as possible from sources of grinding grit, oil mist, and vibrations. Where possible the projector should be located with the screen facing away from direct sunlight and overhead lighting.

Bench-top optical comparators should be placed on a strong sturdy bench capable of securely supporting a minimum of 550lbs/250Kg with a point pressure capability minimum of 165psi. Dorsey Metrology optionally supplies a cabinet/stand designed for this application. Canopy and curtains are not provided as standard, but are available as an optional extra fitted at the factory on the projector stand. These items are strongly recommended when using lenses of high magnification or with surface projection of difficult components.

In part 2 of this guide we will focus on selecting right lenses, digital readouts and additional options and accessories for optical comparators.

When selecting proper lens follow the chart below to decide what lens will match the tolerances required. A basic rule of thumb is that
a typical attentive operator can repeatedly discriminate .004″ on the comparator screen. Dividing the “discernible resolution” by the lens magnification determines the minimum resolution attainable for each lens.

Another thing to consider when selection optical comparator is digital readout. Select a basic XY digital readout if only positions and distances are required. If measurement of circles, angles, and parametric distance is required, then select a readout with geometric capability. Repetitive part measurement may encourage the selection of a CNC capable readout. Automatic edge sensing should be considered to eliminate operator subjectivity and increase repeatability and accuracy.

Additional options are available when choosing optical comparator. Repeatability and accuracy will suffer if the workpiece is not properly and securely held. Careful consideration should be given to tooling and to the surface on which you place your optical comparator.

Before buying optical comparator some  items that should be taken into consideration.

Light path is probably the first thing one would like to look into. Optical comparators comes in two configurations, with vertical light path and horizontal light path. Vertical light path instruments have a beam of light traveling vertically. Parts being inspected are placed on a plate of glass that the light beam travels through. Vertical optical comparators are ideal for flat parts like gaskets, O rings, stamped parts and electronics. Dorsey’s line of vertical optical comparators feature quick release mechanisms on both axes making measurements on our vertical machines much faster than on horizontal machines which feature quick release on only 1 axis.

Horizontal light path instruments have a beam of light traveling horizontally across a workstage. This type of machine is ideal for large heavy parts and shafts to be held on V blocks or between centers. Typical applications include castings, transmission shafts, thread form measurement and machined components.

Another important thing when selecting optical comparator is screen size. Screen sizes from 12″ to 80″ are available. Before choosing a screen size, determine how much of the part really must be viewed at one time. When using a digital readout system it is not necessary to view the entire part to measure it. Calculations can be made by dividing the screen diameter by the lens magnification. For example using 10X lens on a 16″ optical comparator would enable viewing 1.6″ of the part on the screen (16″÷10=1.6″). Verify that the workstage size, travel and weight capacity will accommodate all of the parts that are intended to be inspected. In general, optical comparators with screen sizes 16″ and smaller are benchtop units with weight capacities up to 110 pounds.

Please feel free to contact us with any questions regarding sales, applications, or competitive products.

An optical comparator, sometimes referred as profile projector is a inspection instrument that utilize traditional optics to magnify and project the image of  inspected part onto a glass screen. The optical comparator cast a beam of high-intensity light on inspected part. Light travels through prism and projects the shadow of an object. The shadow is then compared with a chart showing tolerance levels for the part. Optical comparators are available in a wide variety of styles and configurations. Typical options are – projection screen sizes from 10″ to 80″, magnification range from 5x to 250x, horizontal or vertical light path, various stages, digital readouts and surface illumination systems.