Engravers have the tedious task of intricately designing items to specifically achieve the artwork that their clients desire. However, due to the eye-straining and fatiguing work, engravers need specialized tools to aid them in engraving designs. Stereo microscopes for engravers are the best tools of the trade.
Previously, engravers use hand-held lens to magnify their work. But hand-held lenses often have small visual areas as the magnification increases, which is not ideal for engraving of any sorts.
Optivisors were also used in engraving. They are cheap and quite suitable for low definition work. Optivisors also come with interchangeable lenses, but they generally have low magnification.
With the introduction of stereo microscopes specifically for engraving, working on a design has never been easier for engravers of the trade. Quality of work is met with the use of a correct stereo microscope.
Selection is important when looking for a stereo microscope specifically for engraving. Remember the rule of thumb that the higher the magnification, the shorter the work distance.
Consider the following points when selecting a stereo microscope for engraving:
- the hand and tool working clearance
- at least two inches field of view
- look for good lens clarity with low distortion
- range of magnification to allow flexibility in viewing; preferable range is 3.5x to 22.5x
- avail of additional lenses for the bottom objective and eye piece; swap lenses as your need dictates to achieve various levels of magnification
- though there is a low distortion on the bottom objective, it is almost non-existent
- work distance should be six inches from work distance to objective
It is advisable to scout for a good, if not better, stereo microscope. If you wish to have a superior stereo microscope for engraving, you have to pay the price. Rememberthat cheaper means cheaper grade. If you wish to have a superb device, the best way to do it is to buy a used quality stereo microscope. You do need to invest if you want a new one.
Buy according to your needs not just by whim or instinct. If your job is not demanding, opt for a less expensive stereo microscope. And as you progress on your skill and craftsmanship, you can upgrade your microscope according to your specific needs.
Additional tool for engraving using a stereo microscope is the vise with built in turntable. This helps you station the item you are engraving with added stability that can increase you efficiency. This device works harmoniously with a stereo microscope as it complicates the engraving task at hand.
Achieving a superb result can only be done by using a stereo microscope. The visual precision that a stereo microscope offers is far too different than just using the naked eye. The eyes will have a hard time focusing on the item being engraved when not using a stereo microscope.
Aiding the eyes will help make you at ease and it reduces the stress in the eyes as well. You can work for hours without causing too much eye strain.
High end European-made stereo microscopes have been making waves lately, but their prices are quite high compared to Asian-made microscopes. But both types candeliver the same quality images you are looking for, so you have the option to choose whichever your budget permits.
Beware of low quality stereo microscopes that are made in some other parts of Asia. Most of these microscopes have poor visual focus whichever zoom range you choose. The problem here lies in quality control in producing these equipments and the materials that have been used in assembling them. You can tell by the scruffy construction that a stereo microscope is low grade, so avoid buying these types.
The bottom line is you need to agree to invest hundreds of dollars in order to achieve the best results from your engraving. The best tools of the trade come with a price tag, high quality construction, good performance and longer usability.
Choosing the brand or make should also be clear when looking for a stereo microscope for engravers. The best brands or makers out there in the market are either from Europe or Japan. American-made stereo microscopes are also good, but be aware of fake microscopes or those that have been refurbished using cheap replacement parts. These microscopes are often high-maintenance and you could spend a fortune just maintaining and repairing.
Invest your money wisely by purchasing a higher priced stereo microscope for engravers that can deliver you the goods without compromising the image quality. Always remember that what you invest is what you get; it’s as simple as that.
