Identify causes
Surface analysis helps assess demoulding, deposits, wear and appearance.
At a glance
From an impression to a sound assessment.
Capture topography in 3D
Confocal laser microscopy reveals microstructures without contact.
Measure properties
Roughness, surface energy, hardness, geometry and contours can be assessed.
Document results
Initial and target conditions can be compared transparently.
Especially relevant for
- Unclear cause of a process issue
- Visual deviations
- Comparison before and after treatment
- Documenting quality
Question → measurement method
What would you like to know?
The right measurement method reveals the property that matters.
| What to assess? | Which method? |
|---|---|
| Structure & appearance | Digital microscopy |
| Geometry & contour | 3D coordinate measurement |
| Surface topography | Roughness measurement |
| Surface energy | Contact angle measurement |
| Near-surface zone & coating | Hardness testing |
| The finest 3D structures | Confocal laser microscopy |
Principle & application
The technology behind it.
01Understanding and assessing surfacesAssess topography, geometry and properties together.
Functional surfaces need to be both created and made measurable. Structure, roughness, surface energy, hardness, geometry and visual quality are therefore considered together.
Initial conditions can be documented, treatments selected precisely and results assessed transparently. This makes the causes of demoulding problems, deposits, wear or visual deviations easier to identify.
02Typical investigations and measurementsThe measurement method depends on the specific question.
Practical surface finishing and metrological analysis combine experience with data-based assessment and further development.
- Digital microscopy for visual surface analysis
- 3D coordinate measurement for geometry and contours
- Roughness measurement to assess surface structure
- Contact angle measurement to determine surface energy
- Hardness testing for treated near-surface zones and coatings
- Comparison of initial and target conditions
- Documentation of surface quality and treatment results
03Confocal laser microscopyCapture 3D topography and height profiles without contact.
The confocal laser microscope measures without contact and reveals the finest micro- and nanostructures at high resolution. 3D topography, height profiles and roughness values allow reproducible comparisons and reliable documentation.
04Technical assessment for your applicationMeasurement supports selection
From the initial condition to a comparison.
The measurement capabilities support both the development of new surface solutions and the assessment of existing moulds. This makes the surface a measurable process element that can be optimised in a targeted way.
- Structure and shape
Digital microscopy, roughness measurement and 3D coordinate measurement for surfaces, geometry and contours.
- Surface properties
Contact angle measurement to determine surface energy and hardness testing to assess treated near-surface zones and coatings.
- A transparent comparison
Initial and target conditions can be compared, and surface quality and treatment results documented.
Analysis forms part of the technical assessment. Measurements are evaluated in the context of the plastic, tool material, geometry and production conditions.
Selection depends on the plastic, tool material, geometry, temperature, mechanical loading, cleaning conditions and desired function.
Your application
What does your surface need to do?
The mould component, plastic and challenge are the starting point for our joint assessment.