How an Optical Comparator Works & How We Save You Time & Money

The Advantages of Excedr’s Optical Comparator Leasing Program:

• Eliminates the upfront cost of purchasing equipment by spreading its cost over time
• Minimizes equipment downtime with included complete repair coverage and preventive maintenance
• Takes advantage of potentially 100% tax deductible* payments, providing you significant cash-savings
• Expedites the administrative work needed for instrument procurement and logistics
• Conserves working capital,  enabling you to reinvest in your core business and operations (staffing, inventory, marketing/sales, etc.)
• Accommodates all manufacturer and model preferences

*Please consult your tax advisor to determine the full tax implications of leasing equipment.

Optical comparators are non-contact measurement tools used for quality control (QC) and assurance (QA) in labs and machine shops.

Specifically, they are used to inspect every manufactured part for correct geometric measurements. 

Metrology inspection can be done in a number of ways, but the optical comparator—a timeless piece of metrology equipment—has remained relevant even after being invented over 100 years ago. In fact, it has continued to stick around in the face of numerous of technological advancements in inspection systems and measurement tools. 

The comparator is trusted for its simple and elegant design, as well as ease-of-use and short inspection time. Often referred to as an optical projector, contour projector, or profile projector due to the design featuring a projection screen, this optical-measuring instrument works similarly to an old-school overhead projector. 

The object, whether it be an individual component or an assembled product, is measured using a light source that illuminates the object from below in combination with a set of mirrors and optics to project a shadow image of the part on the projector screen.

This projection can then be measured against prescribed limits using a chart overlay, or chart gauge. The chart overlay has detailed cross hairs that are used to measure the movement of the part from edge to edge. 

Other types of chart gauges can be used to measure radius lines and thread angles. Length and width measurements can be determined using an equipped micrometer. All of these measurements can then be used to determine whether or not a workpiece is in line or out of line with standard design specifications. 

The major advantage of an optical comparator over some measurement systems is in its simple design. It requires little training to operate this piece of equipment correctly, providing accurate and reliable measurements with ease. In order to keep up as the digital age takes over in manufacturing industries and metrology in general, comparators have seen numerous design upgrades that offer computer and software assistance. 

These upgrades make comparators a worthwhile investment and an essential piece of any efficient and successful machine shop, especially when you include computer displays that  compute the math required by the operator on its own while simultaneously remembering all of the measured points on the object.

Profile projectors consist of different features, all of which affect what the device is able to perform. While there may be variations, comparators are typically capable of providing accurate measurements for similar objects. With new advances in technology, these optical measuring instruments have become even more useful.

QA/QC is critical to any manufacturing company that wants to stay ahead of the competition. Optical comparators, despite seeing little change in their optical system design, have continued to remain relevant in a highly digitized, three-dimensional world of inspection and measurement. 

If you’re interested in leasing an optical measuring instrument, but are tight on cash, we’re here to help. Simply request a lease estimate or get in touch with us and we can go over how our leasing program can save you from spending unnecessary time and money on buying a piece of metrology equipment outright.

Have another vision system in mind? We lease a wide array of metrology equipment and can source virtually any type of tool or system.

Operating Lease

This off-balance sheet financing structure provides three options at the end of the term. The lessee has the option to return the equipment to the lessor, renew at a discounted rate, or purchase the instrument for the fair market value. Monthly payments are also 100% tax deductible which yields additional monetary savings.

Sale-Leaseback

If you recently bought equipment, Excedr can offer you cash for your device and convert your purchase into a long-term rental. This is called a sale-leaseback. If you’ve paid for equipment within the last ninety days, we can help you recoup your investment and allow you to make low monthly payments. This also frees up money in your budget rather than tying it down to a fixed asset.