Measurement
Introduction
Calipers
Micrometer
Introduction
Measurement is the comparison of an unknown dimension to a known standard.
Good measuring instruments were a key to high volume production. Without
them, parts could not be built accurately enough to be interchangeable.
Each assembly had to be hand fitted together. Today, measuring tools are
essential for most machining operations from initial part layout to final
inspection.
Calipers
The figure below depicts a caliper. It can measure lengths from 0 to 7.5
inches to a precision of one thousandth of an inch. One can measure the
outside of a part with the jaws, the inside of a hole or slot with the
nibs, or the depth of a hole or shoulder with the extension bar.
This particular one is has a vernier scale. It takes a little practice
to read it properly. Calipers often have a dial or digital readouts instead.
A Vernier Caliper
To read a vernier caliper:
-
Read the large number division first.
-
Read the small number division.
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Read the number of smaller subdivisions. Each represents 0.025 inches to
be added to the measurement.
-
Read which line on the vernier lines up with a line on the main beam. For
each line a thousanth must be added to the measurement.
An example follows:
Reading a Vernier Scale - An Example
Micrometer
A micrometer generally provides greater precision than a caliper, but can
measure a smaller range of lengths. A micrometer is depicted in the drawing
below.
Parts of a Micrometer
To use a micrometer, place the part in the opening. Next, turn the thimble
until the spindle contacts the work. To apply a consistent pressure to
the part, use the ratchet stop. Use the clamp ring to hold the thimble
in place while you read the micrometer. To read the micrometer:
-
Read the exposed number on the barrel.
-
Read the number of divisions past the number. Each division represents
0.025 inches.
-
Read the division on the spindle. These usually read to less than thousandths
of an inch.
An example of reading the micrometer follows:
Reading a Micrometer - An Example
Acknowledgment: material revised from MIT site me.mit.edu/2.670/Tutorials/Machining
Copyright: permission
from MIT
Maintained by: meam100@seas.upenn.edu