What Affects Measurement Accuracy
Measuring a Plastiform impression always involves a margin of error between the measured value and the true value. This uncertainty comes from the measuring instrument, the method, the operator, or the impression itself.
There Is Always a Margin
The causes sit either in the making of the impression or in its measurement.
The list below comes from our technical sheets, and it is not exhaustive.
The Measuring Instrument
Some instruments read a Plastiform impression without difficulty, while others struggle more. Run a test first, especially with optical detection such as a laser, a scanner, or structured light.
You also need to account for the calibration of the instrument and the uncertainty that comes with it. Watch the contact pressure. Too much deforms the impression and distorts the result.
The Method
Surface contamination affects the result from the start. A badly degreased surface gives a poor polymerization, and a dirty one leaves dust and residues in the impression.
The product you select must also fit the shape, the orientation of the part, the removal constraint, and the measuring system. A wrong application leaves bubbles or defects.
An impression removed before it is hard enough loses accuracy. Measure the impression only after complete polymerization, as given on the technical sheet.
The Operator
Protect the surface to inspect during production, extraction, and handling. When cutting, a bad cut with the Double Blade Cutter costs precision through a loss of parallelism or a deformation.
Plastiform materials are rather soft, even the most rigid ones. Place the impression so that it is not deformed during the measurement.
Beyond a certain distance, the margin of error increases. Take this measurement size into account in your measurement strategy.
The Impression Itself
An impression that is too large can deform under its own weight.
Because Plastiform is slightly electrostatic, it attracts dust. Clean the impression with Plastin if needed.
Scratches, tears, and deformations made during handling become geometrical defects. Soft impressions can stick slightly to surfaces, so a wrong position on the measuring support can deform them.
