Precise hole depth is a critical quality feature in turned metal components made from materials such as copper. Conventional testing methods often reach their limits, particularly with deep or very fine bores, as material properties, surface properties and limited accessibility can make measurements challenging. With the optoCONTROL CLS1000 series of controllers, combined with the CFS4-A11 light guide reflex sensor from Micro-Epsilon, machine shops can detect hole depths on a non-contact basis, reliably and with high precision. 

To detect depth, the CFS4-A11 reflex sensor measures into the bore from above. The deeper the hole, the less reflected light the sensor receives, and the weaker the electrical signal. This allows the detection of extremely small differences in depth, down to 50 μm. Measured values are output directly via the optoCONTROL CLS1000 display, enabling rapid identification of deviations. 

Thanks to its small beam angle of 22°, the CFS4-A11 is particularly suited to measuring deep bores up to 132 mm. The non-contact measurement is independent of material and surface, enabling stable testing even with demanding materials such as copper. As sensors are adapted to customer-specific applications, the solution integrates smoothly into existing manufacturing and testing processes, ensuring consistently high product quality and reducing testing effort in series production. 

The optoCONTROL CLS1000 system comprises a controller and sensor (sensor head and glass fibre-optic cable), with a wide variety of fibre-optic sensor heads and cables available for demanding environments, including high temperatures, aggressive chemicals and vacuums. With a sensing range of up to 2000 mm and ambient light resistance of up to 50,000 lux, the compact, robust controller suits confined installation spaces on machines, robots and production lines, and offers straightforward configuration via its OLED display. 

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