Moldmaking Resource Plastic Mold Makers, Mold Designers, Mold Repair Guide The digital micrometer is a precision measurement tool has many applications in manufacturing, from simple production line inspection to ultra-precise medical product measurements; read on…
This versatile precision measurement tool has many advantages over the simple mechanical micrometer of the past. When you consider that the basic mechanical micrometer is essentially unchanged since the 1700’s, it is time to upgrade!
Advantages of the digital micrometer
- Non-rotating spindle
- Availability of speedy spindles, which can be up to 20 times faster than the conventional mechanical style.
- Wider range available to accommodate more measurements
- IP54, IP65 and IP67 dust/water protection for real-world conditions
- High precision capabilities: .00005” resolution
- SPC data output connections
- Adjustable measuring force mechanism to accommodate various kinds of work materials
- The measurement-value hold function automatically retains the data at a specified force
- Digital display helps eliminate operator error, such as confusing thimble lines
- Easy inch/metric conversion
Precision digital micrometers, such as the Mitutoyo MDH series 293 are high accuracy sub-micron tools that enable measurements in the .000005” range. The use of a micrometer stand and heat shield further ensure that the measurement is proceeding normally.
The Metrology Handbook, Second Edition
An authoritative book, “The Metrology Handbook, Second Edition” provides a foundation for understanding basic metrology and calibration principles and practices.
Other styles of digital micrometers
Many production lines or inspection departments use custom digital micrometer set-ups for their unique requirements. By installing a micrometer head in a custom fixture or other jig, nearly any imaginable precision measurement can be taken.
Types of digital micrometers
| Blade micrometers are used for measuring groove diameters on shafts or other narrow recessed features |
| Disc micrometers are used when clearance from the micrometer frame is required |
| Spherical face micrometers are used to measure the thickness of curved parts or pipe wall thickness |
| Screw thread micrometers have interchangeable anvils that are used to check the pitch diameter of threaded parts |
| Point micrometers check the web thickness of drills, small grooves and other hard-to-reach areas |
| Spline micrometers have reduce spindle diameters for measuring spline minor diameters, slots and keyways |
| Tubing micrometers measure the wall thickness of pipe, tubing and are available with spherical or cylindrical anvils |
| Deep throat micrometers are used to check the thickness of paper, sheet metal or plastics |
| Uni-mike or step-mikes are somewhat like a depth mike in reverse. They are handy for checking steps and other odd features |
Conclusion
The digital micrometer is an integral part of modern manufacturing. From the mold making, tool-and-die, and aerospace industries to the automobile, medical and electronic industries, the various styles of digital micrometer are indispensable.
More ideas on precision measurement tools
An authoritative book, “Basic Metrology for ISO 9000 Certification” gives a nice introduction to ISO 9001 requirements for calibration of test and measuring instruments.”