Metrology System provides sub-micron form measurement.
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Press Release Summary:
Tropel ThetaForm(TM) metrology system consists of dual-wavelength interferometer, mounted on programmable, multi-directional stage to measure rotationally symmetric surfaces. System creates high-density surface maps in less than one minute. It provides point-to-point resolution of distances in nanometer range and is capable of measuring ground parts with surface roughness up to 2 microns. System is suitable for high-volume manufacturing processes.
Original Press Release:
Corning Tropel Introduces ThetaForm(TM) Metrology System
System Provides Accurate Precision Measurements With Speed Required to Support High-Volume Manufacturing Processes
FAIRPORT, N.Y. Corning Tropel Corporation, a wholly owned subsidiary of Corning Incorporated (NYSE:GLW), today introduced the Tropel ThetaForm(tm) metrology system-a dual-wavelength interferometer configured to measure rotationally symmetric surfaces. The ThetaForm(tm) metrology system provides sub-micron form measurement, ideal for use in high-volume production environments such as fuel injector manufacturing.
"Quality control is essential for achieving high-yield and maximum profitability in any manufacturing process," said John Bruning, president, Corning Tropel. "The ThetaForm(tm) metrology system has the speed and accuracy necessary to provide a high-density surface map in less than one minute, showing thorough coverage of the full surface while minimizing the probability of significant sampling error."
Using a dual-wavelength interferometer, the ThetaForm(tm) metrology system provides point-to-point resolution of distances in the nanometer range, and is capable of measuring ground parts with surface roughness up to two microns. In addition, the probe design of the ThetaForm(tm) metrology system permits measurement of two different surface types with the same probe, making it possible to measure critical surfaces, such as the valve surface of a fuel injector, that were previously difficult to access.
The ThetaForm(tm) metrology system's interference map is composed of sequential measurements acquired point-by-point on a test surface as it rotates on its axis in close proximity to the ThetaForm(tm) metrology system's interferometer probe. The probe is mounted on a programmable stage that can move in multiple directions, allowing the probe to follow the test surface in a spiral pattern over any rotationally symmetric form.
"As next-generation technologies are implemented on manufacturing floors in industries like automotive, sealing and bearing surfaces will undoubtedly require lower form tolerances," added Bruning. "Conventional measurement technologies no longer have the accuracy and speed necessary to control a high-volume production process. The ThetaForm(tm) metrology system was developed to specifically address this need and help manufacturers effectively measure these critical surfaces."
Measurements with the ThetaForm(tm) metrology system are in compliance with the National Institute of Standards and Technology, the non-regulatory federal agency within the U.S. Commerce Department's Technology Administration, created to develop and promote measurements, standards, and technology throughout various industries.
Through the combined expertise of its Corning Semiconductor Optics business units, Corning is a leading supplier of optical materials, precision optics, and metrology instruments for the semiconductor industry. More information is available at http://www.corning.com/semiconductormaterials.
Established in 1851, Corning Incorporated (www.corning.com) creates leading-edge technologies that offer growth opportunities in markets that fuel the world's economy. Corning manufactures optical fiber, cable and photonic products in its Telecommunications segment. Corning's Technologies segment manufactures high-performance display glass, and products for the environmental, life sciences, and semiconductor markets.
Corning Contacts:
Elijah Baity M. Elizabeth Dann
(607) 974-8908 (607) 974-4989
baityea@corning.com dannme@corning.com
