CMM Styli & Probe Tips

Precision ruby and sapphire probe tips for coordinate measuring machines, inspection and industrial metrology applications.

Microwork supplies custom ruby and sapphire probe tips (CMM styli) for coordinate measuring machines, precision inspection systems, optical measurement setups and industrial metrology applications.

Available probe tips include ruby balls and sapphire balls mounted on stainless steel or ceramic stems. Diameters, stem length, effective working length (EWL) and surface finish are specified according to application and measurement machine requirements.

These probe tips are suitable for measuring components with tight tolerances, delicate surfaces, optical parts, micro-machined components and high-precision assemblies. For custom applications, parameters such as ball diameter, stem material, length, surface quality and mounting requirements should be provided.

Typical Probe Configurations

• Ruby ball probe tips, 1 mm – 12 mm diameter
• Sapphire ball probe tips, 1 mm – 10 mm diameter
• Stem material: stainless steel, ceramic
• Effective working length (EWL) adjustable per design
• Surface finish: polished or ground per application
• Custom probe geometry and assembly available upon request

Engineering Considerations

When specifying CMM probe tips, engineers should consider ball diameter, stem material, effective working length (EWL), tip surface finish, tolerance, mounting method, and component fragility.

Ruby is preferred for standard metrology probes, sapphire may be used for higher hardness or wear resistance applications. Stem material should be compatible with the measurement machine and avoid thermal expansion errors.

For early-stage projects, please provide required ball diameter, stem material, length, tolerance, EWL and measurement application.

Need a Custom Probe Tip?

Send us your drawing, probe type, diameter, stem material, EWL and surface finish requirements. We can help review manufacturability and suitable materials before quotation.