What is the best medium for cleaning ruby styli, the majority of parts I measure are Aluminium (75%), so there is minute material pickup. I could switch to silicon nitride but would have to buy about 25 new styli.
Any help would be appreciated on cleaning.
We just use a lint free rag, and 99% rubbing alcohol here. I don't know if that is technically the best, but it has worked for us for years with no problems
MK1966 I know you mentioned aluminum because you noticed some material galled up on the ruby tip and it is somewhat stubborn to remove. I used a very worn out piece of red scotch brite as the first stage and then moved to smoother materials in stages where a kimtech was second to last and the very last step was the watch-makers putty... don't forget to lube your contact points if you're using pucks. I hear you on moving to Silicon Nitrite but it is so worth it!
If you are scanning, 100% you need to get the purchase order rec out and order new probes and switch away from RUBY. If you are only TTP, ruby is fine.