When we think about comparative indicators, we usually are referring to dial indicators. However, test indicators also provide comparative measurements.
The most commonly used—and perhaps the simplest—measure of surface finish is the Ra parameter, or roughness average. But like ordering a coffee at one of today’s deluxe cafes, it’s not exactly simple.
In the world of oil drilling, there are some pretty big things. It's not just the rigs anchored out in the ocean that are huge: Everything that goes along with them seems to get supersized, including the need for gaging.
The need for long-range height measurements has been around since the principles of layout work became a fundamental requirement in machine shops.
The first step in the manufacturing process is to lay out a piece by transferring a design or pattern to a workpiece.
Fixed body mechanical plug gages are one of the best ways to measure hole diameters. With this type of gage there is no rocking, as with an adjustable bore gage.
Holes and cylinders are the most commonly produced forms in the modern machine shop. Usually, the diameter is the critical dimension to be measured, but when a part needs to interact with other parts, form and surface finish must also be taken into account.
When we think about making a simple measurement such as an outside diameter, many methods can be used. These would include calipers, micrometers, mechanical snap gages, air snaps, CMMs and special fixture gages, just to mention a few.
Many people confuse the act of measuring a part with that of gaging a part. Although both operations are similar, understanding the subtle differences between the two can improve the accuracy and efficiency of both processes.
Specifications for metrology equipment are usually published in nice glossy brochures that have lots of great pictures highlighting all the features of the product. But specifications can be confusing and are often a hot topic of debate.
Portable surface gages have come a long way in the past 25 years. Instruments that once encompassed three separate pieces, took a hand cart to move and cost tens of thousands of dollars can now be carried in the palm of your hand.
Most masters used for setting comparative gages look like everyday gage blocks, master rings or discs. However, ASME standards for these masters are very specific in defining their characteristics, including material, physical sizes and geometric conditions.
With its long range of motion, the digital height gage can be thought of as a giant caliper, but one with the accuracy of a sophisticated benchtop gaging system. These versatile digital height gages are capable of performing a range of measuring tasks quickly and reliably.