When most people think of profilometry, they associate it with standard industrial uses – verifying surface finish, checking component tolerances, or ensuring quality control in mass production. But the versatility of modern optical profilometers means their applications extend far beyond the factory floor.
Here are five lesser-known but high-value areas where profilometry is making a significant impact.
- Biomedical Surface Analysis
Profilometry plays a vital role in assessing the surface texture of implants, prosthetics, and surgical tools. Measuring parameters like surface roughness (Ra) helps ensure biocompatibility and improves osseointegration for implants. Non-contact techniques such as white light interferometry are ideal for these delicate materials.
- Microelectronics and Semiconductors
In electronics, even minute surface variations can cause signal loss or failure. Profilometry is used to inspect wafers, MEMS, and PCB layers, where ultra-precise height measurements and flatness validation are essential for performance and miniaturisation.
- Optical Component Fabrication
Lenses, mirrors, and prisms must meet strict surface criteria to function correctly. Optical profilometers can measure curvature, smoothness, and defects with nanometre precision—without touching the surface.
- Cultural Heritage Conservation
Conservators and museums are now using non-contact profilometry to analyse artworks, manuscripts, and historical artefacts. This technology allows for non-invasive surface mapping of fragile objects, helping document wear and guide restoration decisions.
- Research and Materials Science
Universities and R&D labs use profilometry to study material behaviour under stress, wear, or corrosion. These insights are critical in developing new materials and validating simulation models.
Omniscan provides advanced profilometry solutions suitable for both industrial and academic applications. Whether you’re working in aerospace, heritage science, or medical device development, we offer tools that deliver accurate, repeatable surface measurements – quickly and without damage.
Contact Omniscan to explore tailored profilometry systems for your field.