Micro borescopes that are 3.0 mm (0.12 in) and smaller in diameter can be used to inspect the interior of castings and machined parts. Micro borescopes or mini borescope can actually be as small as 0.35 mm (0.013 in). It is common that manufacturers will want to know the condition of interior channels and other hidden areas on these parts. They will want to inspect for burrs, excess material, blockages and chips or debris left from the machining process. Micro borescopes maybe used to inspect in areas where there is straight access available. When the inspection requires snake around corners, down channels and winding spaces a micro borescope is needed. The ability to inspect the interior of castings and machined parts with flexible and rigid micro borescopes helps to improve to quality of manufacturing.

Micro borescopes are typically used to remotely inspect the smallest application. Some remote visual inspection applications require access through tiny holes that are less than 2.0 mm (0.078 in). A micro borescope or mini borescope may be semi-flexible or rigid. Typically these small borescopes are limited in length and direction of view is 0° forward with the option for side view mirror sleeves.

These small inspection areas provide remote visual inspection professionals with many challenges. The access dictates the inspection requirements more than any other factor. The smaller the inspection area the more limited the choice of micro borescopes available and the number of manufacturers of these mini borescopes.  Finally, Due to the nature of a micro borescope, it is more susceptible to damage. Users need to be aware of the limitations of smaller diameter borescopes and fiberscopes and work within these.

Applications for Micro Borescopes:

• Engineering & Manufacturing. Micro Borescopes provide cost-effective examination of internal structures without tear down. A micro borescope allows engineers to check for pitting, cracking, corrosion, erosion, weld and other defects.

• Quality Control. Micro Borescope instruments allow manufactures to inspect components for defects. Mini borescopes provide the ability to inspect internal components, bore holes, castings and other manufactured items such as turbine blades, automotive components, circuit boards, rifle barrels and welds.

• Castings. Micro Borescopes can be used to inspect inside casting of engine blocks and other high quality casted components. Micro Borescope instruments as small as 0.5 mm in diameter and larger are offered to accommodate all casting inspection needs.