Scale/grating: Length Up to 30 meters, Pitch 20 μm to 200 μm

Component Specifications

Definition

A scale or grating is a precision-engineered component featuring a series of equally spaced lines or marks on a substrate, forming a periodic pattern. In position sensors like encoders and interferometers, it serves as the reference element against which a readhead or optical system measures displacement. The component's accuracy directly determines the resolution and repeatability of the position measurement system, making it critical for applications requiring micron or sub-micron precision in industrial automation, CNC machinery, and coordinate measuring machines.

Working Principle

The scale/grating works by creating a periodic pattern (lines, grooves, or reflective/non-reflective areas) that interacts with a readhead. In optical encoders, light passes through or reflects off the pattern, generating a sinusoidal signal as the scale moves relative to the readhead. This signal is converted into digital pulses to determine position. In interferometers, the grating diffracts laser light, creating interference patterns that measure displacement with extreme accuracy based on wavelength counting.

Materials

Typically made from glass (e.g., borosilicate for low thermal expansion), stainless steel, or ceramic substrates. The grating pattern is applied via chrome deposition, etching, or diamond turning for high precision. Coatings may include anti-reflective or protective layers.

Technical Parameters

Parameter	Typical range	Notes & selection driver
Pitch	20 μm to 200 μm
Length	Up to 30 meters
Resolution	0.1 μm to 10 μm
Signal Output	Incremental or absolute
Accuracy Grade	±1 μm/m to ±5 μm/m
Operating Temperature	-10°C to 60°C

Ranges are indicative industry figures for RFQ preparation, not a supplier commitment. Confirm every value and standard with the legal manufacturer before ordering.

Standards

ISO 230-2, DIN 862

Parent Products

This component is used in the following industrial products

Position Sensor (Encoder/Interferometer)

A precision measurement device that detects and reports the exact position of a moving element within a positioning system.

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Engineering Analysis

Risks & Mitigation

Contamination (dust, oil) affecting accuracy
Thermal expansion causing measurement drift
Mechanical damage to grating lines
Misalignment during installation

FMEA Triads

Trigger: Contamination buildup on grating surface
Failure: Signal degradation or loss, leading to inaccurate position readings
Mitigation: Use protective seals, regular cleaning with approved solvents, and install in clean environments

Trigger: Thermal expansion mismatch between scale and machine base
Failure: Measurement errors due to dimensional changes
Mitigation: Select low-expansion materials (e.g., ceramics), apply temperature compensation algorithms, or use reference scales

Industrial Ecosystem

Compatible With

Typical Suppliers & Equivalents

Compliance & Inspection

Tolerance

±1 μm per meter for high-grade scales, per ISO 230-2

Test Method

Laser interferometry, optical comparator analysis, and environmental testing for thermal stability

Procurement Evaluation Criteria

A practical evidence checklist for RFQ preparation and supplier evaluation.

Technical documentation

Request current drawings, revision history, and a signed specification sheet.

Manufacturing capability

Verify equipment lists, process limits, capacity, and representative production evidence.

Inspection readiness

Confirm test methods, calibrated equipment, sampling plans, and traceable reports.

Supplier transparency

Check the legal entity, factory address, ownership, certifications, and direct contacts.

CNFX does not score or rank suppliers. Buyers must verify all claims and documents with the legal manufacturer before ordering.

Manufacturers of Scale/grating

Manufacturer profiles associated with Scale/grating.

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Compiled and source-reviewed by the CNFX editorial team. Each manufacturer above links to the page on that company's own website where the product is listed, with the date we checked it. How we source and review

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a scale and a grating in position sensors?

A scale typically refers to a linear or rotary component with marked lines for incremental measurement, while a grating often denotes a finer, periodic structure used in optical systems for diffraction-based measurement, though the terms are sometimes used interchangeably in industry.

How do I select the right scale/grating for my application?

Consider resolution requirements, environmental conditions (temperature, contamination), material compatibility (thermal expansion), length, and signal type (incremental vs. absolute). Consult manufacturer datasheets and industry standards like ISO 230-2 for guidance.

Data Basis

Editorial classification, named public sources where available, and source-reviewed manufacturer records. See the editorial policy.

Preliminary Technical Classification

This page supports structured research, RFQ preparation, and supplier evaluation. It does not replace buyer-led supplier qualification, standards review, or technical approval.

Scale/grating