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Updated: Jun 8, 2026
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Experiments on Ultrasonic Lubrication Using a Piezoelectrically-assisted Tribometer and Optical Profilometer
Published on: September 28, 2015
Ultrasonic measurements of surface roughness
Applied Optics
|September 11, 2010
Summary
Pulsed ultrasound at megahertz frequencies can measure rough surfaces, complementing optical methods for applications like wet surfaces and real-time manufacturing process control.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Acoustics
- Metrology
Background:
- Optical techniques are standard for surface roughness measurement.
- Limitations exist for optical methods on wet or very rough surfaces.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore noncontact ultrasonic techniques for surface characterization.
- To compare ultrasonic profilometry with traditional stylus methods.
- To assess ultrasound's utility for real-time manufacturing feedback.
Main Methods:
- Utilized pulsed ultrasound at megahertz carrier frequencies (10-50MHz) in water.
- Investigated reflection and scattering from rough surfaces (average roughness R(a) ≥ 0.1 µm).
- Employed time-of-flight measurements for ultrasonic profilometry.
Main Results:
- Ultrasonic methods demonstrated effectiveness comparable to optical techniques for rough surfaces.
- Ultrasonic data showed good agreement with stylus profilometry.
- Identified potential for simultaneous profilometry and surface analysis.
Conclusions:
- Noncontact ultrasonic profilometry is a viable alternative/complement to optical methods for specific applications.
- Ultrasonic techniques offer advantages for wet surfaces and rougher materials.
- Potential for integration into manufacturing for real-time process control.
