3. Explain the significance of each of the 2D surface parameters listed in question 1 above.

Ra Arithmetic average roughness

This parameter measures the arithmetic average height of a components surface peaks and
valleys from the mean line within the sampling length. Ra parameter is important in metrology as
it gives a simple value which can be used to verify whether the machined part can be accepted or
rejected. Furthermore, it is used for detecting general variations in overall profile height
characteristics and for monitoring an established manufacturing process.
Rq Root mean square roughness
This parameter indicates the root mean square average between the height deviations and the
mean line taken over the sampling length. In surface metrology, Rq describes the finish of optical
surfaces and is used in computations of kurtosis and skew.
Rt Maximum roughness height
It represents the maximum roughness height which is measured from the highest peak to the
lowest valley within the sampling length. It is commonly used to describe the overall roughness
of a surface and it is important in precision engineering like aircraft design as high surface peaks
can affect the aerodynamics of the system.
RzDIN Mean roughness depth
This parameter indicates the average maximum peak to valley distance within five successive
sampling lengths from a roughness profile. It is useful for evaluating surface texture on limited
access-surfaces such as small valves seats and the floors and walls of grooves, particularly where
the presence of high peaks and deep valleys is of functional significance.
Ry Maximum height of roughness profile
It indicates the vertical distance between the highest peak and lowest valley within the sampling
length measured in the y-direction. It provides information about friction and wear of a part and
is important in tribology.

Sm Mean spacing
This parameter is a measure of mean spacing between peaks relative to the mean line. It is useful
to indicate how much the machined component can retain lubricant on its surface and gives a
better representation of the roughness profile.

4. Note the dimension and nature of stylus, and explain its impact on the measuring
process.
The stylus of the Surtronic 3+ is made of a conical diamond of radius 5m which has finite
rounded shape. Since the stylus is in contact with the machined part when taking measurement, it
is prone to friction and wear over some time. Hence, reducing its ability to move smoothly over
the surface and thus recording faulty values. Likewise, physical contact of the stylus with the
workpieces surface can accumulate dirt on its tip and consequently increasing error in the
measurement. Furthermore, due to the dimensional and geometrical limitations of the stylus,
measurement of deep narrow valleys can be nearly impossible compared to a non-contact optical
profiler.