Tactile Probe Stylus

Product Specifications

Technical details and manufacturing context for Tactile probe stylus

Definition

The tactile probe stylus is a critical component of the Multi-sensor Probe Head, serving as the physical interface that makes direct contact with the workpiece. It transmits surface coordinate data to the probe's sensing system for dimensional metrology, quality control, and reverse engineering applications. Available in a range of configurations, the stylus features a ball tip made from ruby, zirconia (ZrO2), or silicon nitride (Si3N4), each selected for specific wear resistance, cost, or toughness requirements. Tip diameters range from 0.5 to 6.0 mm, allowing access to tight features while larger tips offer enhanced durability. Stylus lengths vary from 10 to 100 mm, providing reach for deep bores at the cost of potential rigidity reduction. Thread sizes conform to ISO 68-1 (M2, M3, M4, M5) to match various probe head interfaces. Precision is ensured through strict tolerances: straightness ≤0.001 mm per ISO 1101, sphericity ≤0.0005 mm per ISO 3290, and surface roughness (Ra) ≤0.02 µm per ISO 4287. The stylus operates within a temperature range of -40 to 85 °C, with a maximum contact force of 0.05 to 0.5 N to prevent damage to the workpiece or stylus. Weight ranges from 1 to 10 g, affecting the dynamic response of coordinate measuring machines (CMMs). An IP rating of IP54 to IP65 per IEC 60529 provides protection against dust and water for shop floor use. Always verify model-specific values and standards with the legal manufacturer or supplier before procurement.

Working Principle

When the stylus tip contacts a workpiece surface, it deflects slightly. This deflection is detected by strain gauges or other sensing mechanisms within the probe head, which convert the physical movement into electrical signals. These signals are processed to determine the precise XYZ coordinates of the contact point.

Common Materials

Ruby, Tungsten carbide, Silicon nitride

Technical Parameters

Parameter	Typical range	Notes & selection driver
Tip Diameter	0.5–6.0 mm	Smaller tips access tight features; larger tips are more durable.
Stylus Length	10–100 mm	Longer reach for deep bores; may reduce rigidity.
Ball Material	Ruby, ZrO2, Si3N4	Ruby for wear resistance; ZrO2 for cost; Si3N4 for toughness.
Thread Size	M2, M3, M4, M5	Must match probe head interface.ISO 68-1
Straightness	≤0.001 mm	Critical for accurate measurement.ISO 1101
Sphericity	≤0.0005 mm	Affects repeatability of contact point.ISO 3290
Surface Roughness (Ra)	≤0.02 µm	Smooth surface reduces friction and wear.ISO 4287
Operating Temperature	-40–85 °C	Outside range may cause thermal expansion errors.
Maximum Force	0.05–0.5 N	Higher force may damage workpiece or stylus.
Weight	1–10 g	Affects dynamic response of CMM.
IP Rating	IP54–IP65	Protection against dust and water for shop floor use.IEC 60529

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

Components / BOM

Stylus tip Part
Precision spherical contact point that touches the workpiece surface

Material: Ruby or ceramic
Stylus shaft Part
Rigid structural element connecting tip to mounting interface

Material: Stainless steel or carbon fiber
Mounting shank Part
Standardized interface for attachment to probe head

Material: Stainless steel

Applied To / Applications

This component is essential for the following industrial systems and equipment:

Multi-sensor Probe Head

View system integration details

Manufacturers of Tactile probe stylus

Manufacturer profiles associated with Tactile probe stylus.

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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 · Page last updated 6 September 2026

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Frequently Asked Questions

What materials are available for the stylus ball?

The ball material can be ruby, zirconia (ZrO2), or silicon nitride (Si3N4). Ruby offers high wear resistance, ZrO2 is cost-effective, and Si3N4 provides toughness. The choice depends on the application's requirements.

What thread sizes are available?

Thread sizes conform to ISO 68-1 and include M2, M3, M4, and M5. The thread must match the probe head interface, so verify compatibility with your equipment.

What is the maximum contact force?

The maximum force ranges from 0.05 to 0.5 N. Exceeding this range may damage the workpiece or the stylus, so it is important to operate within the specified limits.

What IP rating does the stylus have?

The IP rating is IP54 to IP65 per IEC 60529, providing protection against dust and water. This makes it suitable for shop floor environments, but confirm the exact rating for your model.

Data Basis

Editorial classification, named public sources where available, and source-reviewed manufacturer records.

Preliminary Technical Classification

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pressure:	0 to 50 kPa contact pressure
other spec:	Maximum stylus deflection: 0.5 mm, Vibration tolerance: <5 g RMS
temperature:	-20°C to +80°C

Product Specifications

Applied To / Applications

Industrial Ecosystem & Supply Chain Structure

Application Fit & Sizing Matrix

Reliability & Engineering Risk Analysis

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