Precision measuring tools are known to be used in the manufacturing world when considering products with low tolerance. When thinking or trying to make quality products to meet their desired tolerance of cause precision measuring tools must come into use.
Precision measuring instruments are tools and devices that are used directly in measuring physical quantities. It can also be used in obtaining measurements indirectly by making calculations on real-world objects in a way that precise values can be obtained.
These tools are used in various engineering fields due to their accuracy and precision. The two popular kinds of precision measuring instruments are the vernier calliper and micrometer screw gauge. Well, in this reading, we’ll explore what precision measuring instrument is, its types, applications, advantages, and disadvantages.
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What is Precision Measuring Instruments?
Precision Measuring Instruments are tools and devices used for accurately measuring physical quantities. These instruments, such as callipers, micrometers, and coordinate measuring machines, are designed to provide precise and reliable measurements. They can directly gauge various aspects of an object, such as length, width, thickness, and angles.
They also facilitate indirect measurements through calculations, ensuring the utmost accuracy in applications such as quality control in manufacturing, scientific research, and engineering design. Traditionally, these instruments employed mechanical principles, but with the increased need for precise and quick measurements, devices now work on electronic, pneumatic, and optical principles.
These instruments ensure correctness in quantifying dimensions, tolerances, and various physical properties, providing a comprehensive solution for accurate and reliable measurements.
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Applications
Precision measuring instruments are crucial in the automotive industry for precise measurements of material thickness, ensuring precise dimensions in manufacturing, quality control, and accurate bore diameter determination. They are also used in engineering design, medical device calibration, aircraft maintenance, and semiconductor fabrication.
Types of Precision Measuring Instruments
Below are the kinds of precision measuring tools:
Vernier Caliper
A Vernier caliper is a device that is used to measure internal and external dimensions as well as linear measurements. It offers great accuracy to the objects when placed in between the jaws. The Vernier caliper consists of a scale with marking called a Vernier scale, which is attached to a slider. This slider is having a pointer, which is used in taking in-depth dimensions.
Gauges
Vernier gauges are essential tools for precise and accurate measurements, used in various fields such as railways and medicine. These gauges, including needle gauges, dial gauges, water gauges, stream gauges, and air core gauges, are used to measure thin wires or metal sheets.
The U-shaped frame with a fixed sleeve allows for two readings at a time, converting the rotating thimble moment to linear movement of the spindle. The main scale and Vernier scale are displayed on the sleeve and thimble, providing a comprehensive understanding of the subject matter.
Optical Comparators
Optical comparators are widely used in manufacturing processes for precision measurement. These devices utilise optical magnification and illumination techniques to project an enlarged image of a part or component onto a viewing screen, allowing for precise measurements of features like length, angles, radii, and thread pitch. They are particularly valuable for inspecting intricate and small components.
Digital Calliper
The Digital Vernier Calliper is a modern adaptation of the vernier calliper, offering digital readouts for quick and accurate measurements. This digital caliper simplifies data recording and is commonly used in quality control and industrial settings. It uses a series of capacitance sensors to detect changes in electrical charge when the distance of the jaws changes. Despite its higher cost, users prefer traditional calipers due to their superior accuracy.
Gauge Block
Gauge blocks are precision ground blocks of varying sizes, used for calibrating and inspecting other measuring tools. They come in various sizes, lengths, and materials, individually or in a set. These versatile tools ensure the accuracy of various instruments and can be placed side by side for different length measurements with high accuracy. Gauge blocks are versatile and can be used individually or in a set.
Related: How Does Micrometer Screw Gauge Works & How to Read
Advantages and Disadvantages of Precision Measuring Instrument
Precision instruments offer advantages such as accurate results, improved quality control, increased productivity, enhanced safety, cost savings, and reliable data.
However, they also have limitations such as high cost, complexity for untrained users, susceptibility to damage, limited portability, calibration requirements, potential human error, regular maintenance, specialized knowledge, limited range of measurements, and dependence on environmental factors.