In most cases, a standard or dial indicator is sufficient for metrological requirements. However, sometimes the usual orientation of a standard indicator is not suitable for a particular application. In this case, a vertical indicator may be the best choice. #quality tips
Typical configurations of dial indicators have sensing contacts corresponding to the face of the indicator. Typically, an upward movement of the touch point represents a larger value on the face of the indicator.
For vertical indicators, the sensing contact is at right angles to the indicator face and the contact moves inward towards the indicator face to indicate a positive value.
For short-range digital indicators, commonly found on reference instruments, the sensor is a separate item. It can be removed from the standard case and mounted on a special back panel of a regular monitor. So, the indicator looks and behaves as usual, but the sensor is now perpendicular to the back, in a very compact package.
When using this gear gauge, it is important to take measurements while the part is still in the machine. By applying the vertical digital comparator to existing installations, operators can clearly see dimensions and make decisions accordingly.
One final note: The April print issue is dedicated to the 20th anniversary of the Quality Measurement Tips column. It may not have been a major milestone in the broader sense, but it gave me a really good look at the whole topic of sizes. While most of the things we’re talking about here are tactical issues of problem solving, it’s clear that there are some more important trends driving the process. We’ll discuss these questions next month in Size Measurement Trends. Hope you check it out.
Set up your program, but run it regularly to keep your measuring equipment working properly.
When providing surface finish specifications, engineers sometimes ignore the actual test parameters. Here’s how to make sure your measurements are as accurate as possible.
Dial indicators provide useful tolerance range readings at a glance, but new users need to know how to set up these indicators before using them.
Post time: Jun-26-2023
