What is the purpose of a micro-probe in surface measurement?

The purpose of a micro-probe in surface measurement is to measure edge profiles. Micro-probes are specifically designed to assess the intricate details of surface features, including the geometry of edges and contours. In various industrial applications, understanding edge profiles is crucial for ensuring the integrity and performance of components, especially in areas where coatings or treatments need to adhere properly to the contours of the surfaces.

Measuring edge profiles allows for an accurate assessment of how well a coating may adhere or perform at the edges of metal parts, where coating failures often occur. This is critical in industries like shipbuilding and repair, where the quality and durability of surface coatings directly impact the longevity and reliability of the vessel or equipment.

The other choices, while related to surface measurements, address different aspects that micro-probes are not primarily designed to measure. For instance, measuring overall surface area involves different methods such as laser scanning or other volumetric techniques, checking surface coating adhesion is typically performed using methods like tape tests or peel tests, and measuring depth of pitting usually requires tools specifically meant for depth gauging. Thus, the correct focus of the micro-probe is on measuring edge profiles.